Don't Pivot into AI Research

The article discusses the challenges and realities facing computer science students and new graduates who aspire to enter the field of machine learning and AI research. While the field appears attractive and promising, the author argues that the future will be dominated by a few large companies that can afford the significant capital required for scaling AI technologies. This concentration of demand will lead to a decrease in salaries and prestige for machine learning researchers, similar to the decline experienced by chip designers in the past. As the supply of talent increases and the number of significant employers shrinks, many aspiring researchers may find themselves in roles that do not lead to production or are merely status-driven. The author encourages individuals to reflect on their personal goals and consider alternative career paths, rather than blindly following the trend of pursuing AI research.

- The machine learning field is becoming increasingly capital-intensive, favoring a few large companies.

- An oversupply of talent in AI research may lead to falling salaries and reduced job prestige.

- The dynamics in AI research mirror past trends in chip design, where demand and status declined.

- Aspiring researchers should evaluate their personal goals rather than follow trends blindly.

- The future of AI research may not be as lucrative or prestigious as currently perceived.