Building at the edges of technology and security

I work on big, complex projects that sit at the intersection of AI, cybersecurity, and the changing global order. I like building things that don’t exist yet – sometimes to solve urgent problems, sometimes just to see what’s possible.

I’ve always been drawn to work that’s complicated, messy, and requires pulling together ideas from different fields. Whether it’s launching large-scale innovation initiatives or developing frontier tech systems from the ground up, I like projects that need both strategy and creativity to get off the ground.

Spotlight Security

Spotlight Security is my next venture – a project inspired by a multi-million dollar grant that I currently lead. We’re developing large language models that are fine-tuned for defensive cybersecurity tasks. Right now, we’re focused on building benchmarks, tools, and environments to test and refine these systems. We’re also providing AI safety evaluations for the UK’s AI Safety Institute. If you're interested in learning more or want to collaborate, I’d love to connect.

Clients, partners, and engagements

  • Federation of American Scientists

  • Luminary Labs

Item 1 of 9

PAST WORK

1) AI for Climate and Nature Grand Challenge

with Luminary Labs and the Bezos Earth Fund

2) Patch Forward Prize

with Luminary Labs and BARDA

3) National Cyber Workforce and Education Strategy

with the White House Office of the National Cyber Director

4) CTE CyberNet

with Luminary Labs, NIST, the NSA, and the U.S. Department of Education

5) Rural Tech Project

with Luminary Labs and the U.S. Department of Education

6) Neuromod Prize

with Luminary Labs and the National Institutes of Health

7) CTE Mission: CubeSat

with Luminary Labs and the U.S. Department of Education

*all works are the property of past employers, clients, and partners who are listed next to their respective projects.

Thoughts and contributions

Item 1 of 4

Right now, I’m focused on my team’s grant from Open Philanthropy and Spotlight Security. Together, we’re seeing how far we can push AI in cyber defense. I’m also interested in experimenting with new models for fostering innovation – whether that’s through public policy, prize competitions, or just better collaboration across sectors. The tech landscape is shifting fast, and I like staying close to where the big changes are happening.

What’s next

If you’re working on something interesting – especially at the intersection of tech and security – I’d love to hear about it. I’m open to collaborations, partnerships, and new projects that push boundaries.

For investors or partners interested in Spotlight Security, feel free to reach out to me at alex@alex-leader.me.

I’m always interested in contributing to new initiatives or offering advisory support.

CV

Let’s work together.

(415) 320-2938

alex@alex-leader.me

New York, NY