James Donovan

James leads research at OpenAI on how AI use affects learning outcomes and the cognitive processes that support them. He works at the intersection of research and product to improve our models for education. Previously, he was supporting neuroscience research spanning brain–computer interfaces, large-scale connectomics, and foundation models trained on biological data. Across roles, he has focused on translating research into practical tools designed to support human cognition. He is also a founder, angel investor, and advisor to a number of startups and non-profits.