, CEO of
Google DeepMind and Nobel laureate, said students should continue to focus on STEM subjects even as
artificial intelligence (AI) changes the global job market. Speaking at SXSW London on Monday, he said a solid understanding of mathematics, physics, and computer science remains essential for anyone trying to understand AI systems."It's still important to understand fundamentals" in mathematics, physics, and computer science to comprehend "how these systems are put together," Hassabis said. He encouraged students to use modern
AI tools to stay ahead in a competitive work environment.
Hassabis said that AI would lead to the creation of “new very valuable jobs” in the next five to ten years, especially for “technically savvy people who are at the forefront of using these technologies.” He compared the scale of AI's impact to the Industrial Revolution and said he is optimistic about human adaptability despite worries over job losses.
Hassabis also highlighted the importance of gaining practical knowledge by working directly with the latest AI tools. “I’d also be experimenting with all the latest AI systems and tools and seeing what’s the best way of utilizing them and making use of them in useful and novel ways,” he said.
He added that children growing up today would become “AI native,” just as earlier generations became familiar with the internet. As AI becomes part of tasks like software development, such fluency will be crucial. Major companies like Meta, Microsoft, and Google have already started using AI to assist in coding and other technical work.
At the recent Google I/O developer conference, Hassabis and Google cofounder Sergey Brin said artificial general intelligence—AI that equals or surpasses human capabilities—could be achieved around 2030. This timeline, Hassabis said, highlights the urgent need for students to prepare for a future where AI plays a central role.Even as some companies reduce hiring for roles that AI can perform, Hassabis believes those who learn to use AI effectively will benefit. He said the technology will eventually “supercharge” workers who understand how to apply it.
