OpenAI: What Ronnie Chatterji Expects from His Economists

Rhythm "a bit crazy," rapid obsolescence of datasets, and strong autonomy: Ronnie Chatterji details the working conditions within OpenAI's economic team. The chief economist, who is recruiting, also describes the three research axes of the group and its cooperation with external entities. His arrival in 2024 coincided with the creation of the position, which is linked to CFO Sarah Friar.

A "bit crazy" pace and strong autonomy, according to Chatterji

Ronnie Chatterji describes the tempo of innovation at OpenAI as "a bit crazy." He cites a study whose dataset stopped in June and which some already deemed outdated by August. In this context, he emphasizes the required autonomy: researchers are expected to identify the problems to address and the recipients of their work rather than execute a fixed mandate. "The job description changes a lot," he summarizes, before warning: "You need to be comfortable with discomfort."

Collaborating internally and with governments and universities

Collaboration is presented as imperative for joining the team. Ronnie Chatterji reports receiving numerous internal requests on economic topics. He specifies that his researchers also work with third parties, including governments and universities. The team has stated that no entity alone has the tools or resources to address the major economic questions related to AI.

Three research axes, and evolving priorities

The scientific program revolves around three questions: how AI is changing work today; how companies are adopting and reorganizing around AI; and what increasingly capable systems could mean for the economy of tomorrow. These projects evolve almost at the pace of AI itself. An example cited by Ronnie Chatterji: recursive improvement was not on his radar a year ago and is now a study theme. He seeks profiles capable of providing rigorous economic insights on current events while being willing to explore areas where all the answers are still lacking. The mandate covers the effects of AI on workers, businesses, institutions, and the economy at large.

A team of about a dozen people, with open positions

At 48 years old, Ronnie Chatterji leads a team of about a dozen people, comprising economists, data scientists, business professionals, and former teachers or civil servants. He indicates a desire to recruit more, without specifying the target volume. The composition reflects the diversity of the topics addressed and the necessity of cross-expertise.

Duke, CHIPS, and the National Economic Council: the background behind the role

Ronnie Chatterji joined OpenAI in 2024 after holding prominent economic positions: coordinating the $52 billion CHIPS program at the Biden White House, serving as acting director of the National Economic Council, and being chief economist at the Department of Commerce. A professor at Duke, where his research focused on innovation and entrepreneurship, he now covers a broader spectrum, from labor markets to corporate adoption. The contact was established while he was considering writing a book and discussing supply chains and semiconductors, key topics for the training and execution infrastructure of OpenAI's models. These discussions led to a broader reflection on the economy of AI and the creation of the chief economist position, now linked to CFO Sarah Friar. Chatterji also observes an increased public interest: where an economist might not always be popular at a gathering, he is now asked what AI will do to the labor market.