Launch research bets
We incubate technical research organizations and projects pursuing mathematically grounded theory and methodologically mature experiments that can raise the scientific standard of foundational AI alignment.
About Iliad
Iliad is building the research, people, and institutions needed to turn foundational AI alignment into a rigorous scientific field.
We launch research bets, train alignment researchers, and build the shared infrastructure needed for the field to grow.
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History of Iliad
Iliad was founded in 2025 by Alexander Gietelink Oldenziel & Caleb Rak.
Iliad began with the ILIAD conference series, focused on math-based alignment research. The momentum behind the conference convinced us that there was a need for the infrastructure to support a fundamental approach to AI alignment.
Prior to founding Iliad, Alexander was involved in launching Timaeus & Simplex — two research organizations that apply the methods of mathematics and physics to open problems in AI alignment. The success of both organizations convinced Alexander that this approach to alignment research might be scalable.
The first iterations of the Iliad Intensive, a four-week taught program in foundational AI alignment, began in April 2026. Iliad also runs the Iliad Fellowship and ILIAD conference series, and supports the peer-reviewed Alignment Journal as part of its field-building infrastructure.
Going forward, Iliad plans to rapidly scale its training program and incubation pipeline. We are also building the Textbook From the Future — a comprehensive online resource which aggregates the forefront of alignment research. Somewhere between a peer-reviewed journal and a Wikipedia with comments, it provides the canonical foundation for the field of alignment.
Three pathways
Train alignment researchers
The Intensive builds a broad technical foundation. The Fellowship gives experienced researchers time, mentorship, and support to pursue individual research.
Build field infrastructure
Conferences, workshops, publishing, and the Alignment Journal connect researchers and support the exchange and development of foundational AI alignment research.