Lex Fridman

Research Scientist at MIT’s Laboratory for Information and Decision Systems, Former Researcher at Google & Host of The Lex Fridman Podcast

Lex Fridman’s Biography:

Lex Fridman is an American computer scientist, artificial intelligence researcher and widely recognised podcaster. As a Research Scientist at MIT’s Laboratory for Information and Decision Systems, Lex focuses on AI, human-robot interaction, autonomous vehicles and machine learning. Alongside his academic work, he launched the Lex Fridman Podcast in 2018, which has grown into one of the most influential long-form interview platforms globally, featuring leading scientists, technologists and cultural figures. His ability to bridge deep technical research with thoughtful public discourse has positioned him as a distinctive voice in conversations about AI and humanity.

Lex earned his PhD in computer science from Drexel University before working as a researcher at Google between 2014 and 2015. He subsequently joined MIT’s AgeLab, where his research examined human-centred aspects of automation and driver behaviour in semi-autonomous vehicles. His 2019 study on driver attention while using Tesla’s Autopilot system attracted widespread attention, drawing both acclaim and criticism, and sparked global debate about autonomous vehicle safety and methodology. The research received public praise from Elon Musk while also prompting rigorous academic scrutiny.

Since 2015, Lex has served as a research scientist at MIT, contributing to work on machine learning, robotics and intelligent systems. At MIT’s Laboratory for Information and Decision Systems, he continues to explore the intersection of artificial intelligence and human decision-making. His research combines engineering precision with philosophical curiosity, often examining not only how AI systems function, but how they affect society, trust and human behaviour.

Through the Lex Fridman Podcast, he has interviewed world leaders in technology, science and philosophy, creating space for in-depth, nuanced conversations about artificial intelligence, consciousness and the future of civilisation. His platform has become a significant forum for discussing frontier technologies in a measured, analytical and accessible manner.

Why Hire Lex Fridman?

Lex is hired as a speaker for his unique combination of frontline artificial intelligence research and global influence through long-form public dialogue. As an MIT research scientist specialising in machine learning, autonomous systems and human-robot interaction, he provides technically grounded insight into both the capabilities and limitations of modern AI.

Alongside his academic work, he has conducted in-depth interviews with renowned public figures across technology, science and politics, including Donald Trump, Elon Musk and other global leaders. This breadth of conversation gives him a rare perspective on how AI intersects with geopolitics, society and culture. He delivers thoughtful, analytical keynotes that appeal to technology leaders, policymakers and organisations seeking serious, balanced discussion about the future of intelligent systems.

Lex Fridman’s Career Highlights:

Here are some of the key milestones that define Lex Fridman’s impressive career:

• 2025 – Continued leading the Lex Fridman Podcast as one of the world’s most influential long-form science and technology platforms, reaching millions of subscribers globally.
• 2023 – Served as Research Scientist at MIT’s Laboratory for Information and Decision Systems, advancing research in artificial intelligence and autonomous systems.
• 2019 – Published a widely discussed study on driver attention and Tesla Autopilot, sparking international debate on autonomous vehicle safety and methodology.
• 2018 – Launched the Lex Fridman Podcast, creating a globally recognised forum for long-form conversations with leaders in science, technology and philosophy.
• 2017 – Co-authored research recognised with a Best Paper award at the ACM Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems, a leading venue in human-computer interaction.
• 2015 – Joined MIT as a Research Scientist, focusing on AI, robotics, human-robot interaction and machine learning.
• 2014 – Worked as a researcher at Google, contributing to machine learning and artificial intelligence research.
• 2014 – Completed a PhD in Computer Science at Drexel University, specialising in artificial intelligence and machine learning.