UPDATE –JULY 2025: This article reports on Jonathan Mayer’s February 2024 appointment as the Justice Department’s first Chief Science and Technology Advisor and Chief AI Officer. Mayer fulfilled key provisions of President Biden’s AI Executive Order and helped establish foundational AI governance infrastructure at the DOJ. As of early 2025, Mayer was still in the role, but according to an April 2025 government tech media report, the CAIO position may now be vacant. No official successor or update has been publicly announced.
ORIGINAL NEWS STORY:
U.S. Justice Department Appoints Chief Science and AI Advisor
United States Attorney General Merrick B. Garland made a groundbreaking AI announcement. Jonathan Mayer is the Justice Department’s inaugural Chief Science and Technology Advisor and Chief AI Officer. In a press release, Attorney General Garland emphasized the critical importance of adapting to evolving technological landscapes to meet the challenges and harness the opportunities they present. With Mayer’s appointment, the Justice Department aims to bolster its capabilities in navigating complex issues like cybersecurity, AI, and emerging technologies effectively.
As the Chief Science and Technology Advisor, Mayer will work closely with Justice Department leadership, providing guidance and fostering collaboration. His mandate extends to spearheading efforts to enhance the infrastructure and talent pool, ensuring it remains equipped to tackle challenges. Mayer’s role will be pivotal within the Office of Legal Policy, a strategic hub tasked with developing a cadre of technical and policy experts focused on critical technology-related areas such as cybersecurity and AI. This initiative aims to fortify the department’s capacity to address pressing technological issues and coordinate efforts with federal partners.
Furthermore, in alignment with President Biden’s AI Executive Order, Garland entrusted Mayer with serving as the department’s Chief AI Officer. In this capacity, Mayer will oversee interdepartmental and cross-agency initiatives on AI, guiding the newly established Emerging Technology Board.
Mayer’s Experience
Mayer brings a wealth of expertise to his new role, drawing from his tenure as an assistant professor at Princeton. His research, spanning the intersections of technology, policy, and law, underscores his commitment to advancing public interests in criminal procedure, national security, and consumer protection. With a Ph.D. in computer science and a J.D. from Stanford University, Mayer embodies the multidisciplinary approach.
Need Help?
If you have questions or concerns about how to navigate the U.S. AI regulatory landscape, reach out to BABL AI. Their Audit Experts can offer valuable insight, and ensure you’re informed and compliant.
