John Jumper leaves Google DeepMind for Anthropic

John Jumper, the Nobel Prize-winning scientist who led the development of the revolutionary AlphaFold AI system, is leaving Google DeepMind to join rival artificial intelligence company Anthropic. The departure, confirmed by both companies on Thursday, June 18, 2026, marks a significant talent loss for Google and underscores the fierce competition for top AI researchers.

Jumper announced his decision on social media, stating that after nearly nine years he would take some time off before beginning his new role at Anthropic, the creator of the Claude AI assistant. He credited DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis for taking a chance on him to lead the AlphaFold team shortly after he completed his PhD. Hassabis, who shared the 2024 Nobel Prize in Chemistry with Jumper for their work, responded publicly, praising their partnership and stating that AlphaFold changed the world and showed what was possible with AI for science and medicine.

A Google DeepMind spokesperson confirmed the departure, expressing gratitude for Jumper's contributions to advancing science and AI. An Anthropic spokesperson confirmed Jumper would be joining the company, though his specific role was not disclosed.