California/IBNS: American artificial intelligence (AI) research company OpenAI's Chief Technology Officer (CTO), Mira Murati, announced her departure from the Microsoft-backed company on the social platform X (formerly Twitter), stating that she intends to "create time and space" for personal exploration.

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman also revealed that Chief Research Officer Bob McGrew and another research leader, Barret Zoph, are also leaving the ChatGPT maker as well.

In her message on X, Murati explained that after much reflection, she made the tough decision to step down from her role at OpenAI.

"I’m leaving to make room for my own exploration," she wrote, adding that her priority now is to ensure a smooth transition while keeping up the momentum they’ve built.

Murati spoke highly of OpenAI, calling it "the pinnacle of AI innovation," and noted that it was difficult to leave a company she deeply values.

Reflecting on her six-and-a-half years at the organization, she described her experience as a great privilege and expressed gratitude to CEO Sam Altman and President Greg Brockman for their continued support.

“I am forever thankful for the chance to work with such an extraordinary team. Together, we’ve expanded the boundaries of scientific knowledge to better humanity. Though I won’t be alongside you anymore, I will always be cheering for your success. I’m deeply grateful for the friendships formed, the achievements made, and the challenges we’ve overcome together,” her statement read.

Sam Altman, in response, expressed his deep gratitude for Murati’s contributions, noting that leadership changes are a natural part of any fast-growing company.

He promised more details on the transition soon.

"I am immensely thankful for what Mira has helped us accomplish, but even more for her personal support through difficult times. I’m excited to see what she does next. We’ll share more about the transition plan soon, but for now, I want to take a moment to express my appreciation," Altman wrote on X.