Sir Demis Hassabis: Co-founder Google DeepMind
Artificial intelligence pioneer and neuroscientist Demis Hassabis advances general AI and scientific discovery by uniting machine learning, neuroscience, and game-based intelligence research.
Quick Facts:
- Highlights:
- Founder and CEO of DeepMind, a global leader in advanced AI research
- Led development of AlphaGo and AlphaFold2, two historic AI breakthroughs
- Five-time World Games Champion in chess and games competition
- Joint recipient of the 2024 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for AlphaFold2
- Formats: Keynote speaker and AI research leader
- Audiences: Scientists, business leaders, policymakers, and organizations exploring artificial general intelligence, scientific discovery, and long-term AI impact
- Outcomes:
- Deeper understanding of how AI accelerates scientific breakthroughs
- Insight into building general-purpose intelligence systems
- Perspective on responsible AI development and long-term societal impact
- Travels from: London, UK
- **Fee range: $500,001 - $1,000,000
Talent Services
Keynote Topics:
Speaker Topics
- AI
- Leadership
- Neuroscience
- Technology
Talent Short Bio
Sir Demis Hassabis is a world-leading computer scientist, neuroscientist, and technology entrepreneur best known as the founder and CEO of DeepMind, a neuroscience-inspired artificial intelligence company acquired by Google in 2014 and now operating within Alphabet.
A former chess prodigy and self-taught programmer, Hassabis began his AI career in the games industry. At just 17, he co-designed and programmed the multi-million-selling simulation game Theme Park. After earning a Double First in Computer Science from University of Cambridge, he founded Elixir Studios and spent more than a decade building successful technology startups.
Driven to understand intelligence at a deeper level, Hassabis returned to academia, completing a PhD in cognitive neuroscience at University College London, followed by postdoctoral research at MIT and Harvard University.
Since founding DeepMind in 2010, Hassabis has led landmark breakthroughs including AlphaGo, the first system to defeat a world champion at the game of Go, and AlphaFold2, which solved the long-standing protein structure prediction challenge, transforming biology and drug discovery. His work consistently demonstrates how general-purpose AI can accelerate scientific progress.
Read Full Bio
Sir Demis Hassabis is a computer scientist, neuroscientist, entrepreneur, and the founder of DeepMind, the pioneering neuroscience-inspired artificial intelligence company acquired by Google in January 2014.
Hassabis began his career in artificial intelligence in the games industry. A chess and programming prodigy, he co-designed and programmed the multi-million-selling construction and management simulation game Theme Park at the age of 17, after completing his A-levels at 16. After graduating from the University of Cambridge with a Double First in Computer Science, Sir Demis Hassabis founded the award-winning video game company Elixir Studios, producing titles for global publishers including Vivendi Universal. Following more than a decade leading successful technology startups, he returned to academia, earning a PhD in cognitive neuroscience at University College London, followed by postdoctoral research at MIT and Harvard.
In 2010, Sir Demis Hassabis founded DeepMind in London. The company was acquired by Google in 2014 and now operates as part of Alphabet. Under his leadership, DeepMind has grown to more than 2,000 research scientists and engineers and has delivered landmark breakthroughs across numerous AI domains, including Atari games and StarCraft II. In 2016, DeepMind’s AlphaGo became the first computer program to defeat the world champion in the complex game of Go through self-play. In 2020, this success was followed by AlphaFold2, which solved the 50-year grand challenge of protein structure prediction by accurately predicting protein 3D structures, with profound implications for biology, disease research, and drug discovery.
Sir Demis Hassabis is a five-time World Games Champion and a Fellow of both the Royal Society and the Royal Academy of Engineering. His research on the relationship between memory and imagination was named one of Science magazine’s top ten scientific breakthroughs of 2007. He was included in TIME’s “100 Most Influential People” in 2017, appointed CBE in 2018 for services to science and technology, and awarded the Dan David Prize Future Award in 2020 for his work in AI. In 2024, Hassabis received a knighthood for services to artificial intelligence and was jointly awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for AlphaFold2.
Contact us at Speakers Inc and follow us on LinkedIn
Videos
Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry
No reviews available for this post.
Talent FAQ's
Do speakers charge a flat fee or by the hour?
Speaker fees can vary depending on factors such as expertise, demand, and event specifics. While some speakers may charge a flat fee for their services, others may have hourly rates. It’s best to discuss fee structures directly with the speaker or their representative to understand the pricing model.
What is the typical duration of a keynote speech and what is included?
Keynote speeches typically range from 30 to 90 minutes, with the duration determined by the speaker’s expertise, the event’s agenda, and audience preferences. Keynote speeches often include a combination of inspirational stories, practical insights, and actionable advice tailored to the event’s theme or objectives.
Does the scale of the event and audience size affect a speaker’s fee?
The scale of the event and audience size can indeed impact a speaker’s fee. Larger events with a broader reach or higher attendance may command higher fees due to increased exposure and demand. Conversely, smaller events or niche audiences may offer opportunities for more flexible pricing arrangements.
Travel expenses and other costs
Travel expenses such as transportation, accommodation, and meals are typically negotiated separately from the speaker’s fee. These costs vary depending on the speaker’s location, travel distance, and event duration. It’s important to clarify travel arrangements and expenses during the booking process to avoid misunderstandings.
Deposits and securing a booking
Many speakers require a deposit to secure a booking, with the remaining balance due closer to the event date. Deposits are often non-refundable and serve as a commitment from both parties. It’s advisable to discuss deposit requirements and payment terms with the speaker or their representative when finalizing the booking.
Additional tips and takeaways
- Virtual speaking appearances are a cost-effective alternative to high speaking fees, often 10-50% cheaper than in-person rates.
- There is typically no difference in fee for a 15-minute speech versus a 60-minute speech.
- Some motivational speakers are open to discounting their fee if hired for more than one event by the same organization.
- When browsing speakers, consider their location to keep travel costs down.
- Personal connections to your organization or event location can increase your chances of securing a renowned speaker.
- Be upfront about your needs and expectations to ensure a successful partnership.
- Speaker bureaus like Speakers Inc help guide you through the booking process to negotiate the best deal with favorable terms.
Ready to find the perfect speaker for your event? Use our advanced search feature or contact us to get started today!
You may be interested in...
- (60)
Dr. Gregory Stock stands at the forefront of biotechnology and bioethics, offering profound insights into the evolving landscape of life sciences. As a biotech entrepreneur, best-selling author, and esteemed public communicator, he delves into the intricate interplay between advanced technologies and their societal implications. His compelling narratives challenge audiences to contemplate the future of human […]
- Travels from: Boise, ID
- Healthcare Speakers
- (18)
Steve Lerch is an award-winning international public speaker, consultant, and former Google Executive, and has become a highly respected voice in the world of digital strategy, marketing, consumer behavior, and innovation. While at Google, Steve served as a digital strategy advisor to prominent brands like GoPro and Roku, respected non-profits like the YMCA and Save the […]
- Travels from: Washington, DC
- Artificial Intelligence
- (57)
- (1)
Salim Ismail is a visionary strategist and a renowned technology entrepreneur who has profoundly impacted the global business landscape. As the founding executive director of Singularity University and the author of the best-selling book Exponential Organizations, Salim has become a leading authority on disruptive innovation and exponential technologies. As the founding executive director of Singularity […]
- Travels from: Miami, FL
- Artificial Intelligence
- (45)
Tom Goodwin is a dynamic and sought-after speaker who is at the forefront of innovation in marketing and artificial intelligence. With a career spanning over two decades, Tom has earned a reputation as a thought leader and visionary, constantly challenging the status quo and inspiring audiences around the world. His insights into the digital landscape […]
- Travels from: Miami, FL
- Artificial Intelligence
- (4)
Carme Artigas is a global expert in Big Data, AI, and technological innovations with over 25 years of experience in management, executive, and technological positions. She is the co-founder and former CEO of Synergic Partners, which was acquired by Telefonica in 2015. She is currently a Senior Fellow at Harvard’s Belfer Centre and an Ambassador for ‘Women in […]
- Travels from: Madrid, Spain
- Artificial Intelligence
- (21)
Michelle Lee is a trailblazing AI keynote speaker, renowned technology strategist, and leadership expert who is shaping the future of artificial intelligence and digital transformation. As the founder and CEO of Obsidian Strategies, she has carved out a niche in guiding organizations through the complexities of AI adoption, ethical implementation, and future-ready leadership. With a […]
- Travels from: San Francisco, CA
- Futurists Speakers
- (19)
Dr. Catriona Wallace is a globally recognized thought leader in artificial intelligence (AI), ethics, and digital transformation. A trailblazer in the tech industry, Dr. Wallace is one of the few women at the helm of an AI-driven enterprise, leading the charge to create technology that not only solves problems but also fosters positive societal impact. […]
- Travels from: Sydney, NSW
- Artificial Intelligence
- (20)
Edgar Perez is one the world’s few business and technology visionaries who can light up a room with insightful and inspiring presentations on the impact of cutting-edge technologies, from 5G to Quantum Computing and from Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity to Web3 and the Metaverse. A published author and energetic keynote speaker, he is also an […]
- Travels from: New York, NY
- Artificial Intelligence
Disclaimer
These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.
Fee Range Information
All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.
