Axiom Math's Carina Hong weighs in on the AI talent wars and the advantage of working at a neolab

Carina Hong, the visionary behind Axiom Math, one of the fastest-growing neolabs, has shared her insights on the fierce competition for AI talent. In a recent discussion with Business Insider's Ben Bergman, Hong highlighted the unique advantages that neolabs offer compared to larger tech firms. "We've attracted remarkable talent from Big Tech, individuals who are seasoned veterans in the field," Hong stated. She noted that many of these researchers are seeking a refreshing change from the politics and rigid cultures prevalent in bigger companies. "They are drawn to environments where they can focus on impactful research without the burdens of traditional job security associated with startups. Instead, they desire stability in their research direction," she explained. Hong elaborated on the challenges faced by researchers in large labs, where the focus can shift frequently. "In major labs, the research priorities can change almost weekly, creating an instability that top talent wishes to avoid. They want to ensure that their work remains relevant and impactful over time," she added. In today's competitive landscape, AI companies, from innovative startups like OpenAI to established giants like Meta, are enticing talent with lucrative compensation packages. Axiom Math, which is currently developing sophisticated AI systems capable of not only solving intricate mathematical problems but also providing detailed proofs and self-verifying their reasoning, is positioned at the forefront of this talent war. Hong's broader vision involves leveraging mathematical reasoning as a cornerstone for enhancing AI capabilities, with potential applications in critical fields such as software verification, finance, and cryptography. Founded just about a year ago, Axiom Math is part of an emerging trend of startups known as "neolabs," which are gaining momentum in the AI industry, particularly in tech hubs like San Francisco. These neolabs are characterized by their nimble teams focused on creating AI-native products from the ground up, often operating with fewer employees and reduced overhead costs compared to traditional startups. As of March 2026, Axiom Math boasts a remarkable valuation of $1.6 billion, underscoring its rapid ascent in the competitive AI landscape.