Mary E. Brunkow, a Nobel Prize-winning scientist, will address graduates at the University of Washington during its 151st Commencement ceremony on Saturday. She has a distinguished background in immune system regulation, contributing to advancements in understanding the body’s defenses, which earned her the 2025 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine.
Brunkow, who is affiliated with Seattle’s Institute for Systems Biology, has integrated AI and machine learning into her research for years. Unlike many speakers this graduation season, she is not a tech executive or venture capitalist, which may shield her from the backlash faced by others discussing AI.
In recent ceremonies, speakers like former Google CEO Eric Schmidt have encountered negative responses from students over AI discussions. Graduates appear more receptive to voices that emphasize inquiry rather than those with vested interests in the technology's future.
Brunkow recognizes the concerns surrounding AI and its impact on society. In a recent interview, she stated, “AI is touching everything that people are doing; a lot of times, it’s presented in stark or ominous terms.” She believes that humanity has faced similar technological revolutions throughout history and has adapted effectively.