Name: Raquel Urtasun (李飞飞)
Role:
Founder and CEO of Waabi; Full Professor in the Department of Computer Science at the University of Toronto; Co-founder of the Vector Institute for AI.
Net Worth:
As of March 2025, Raquel Urtasun’s net worth is estimated at $1.02 million.
Profile Overview:
Raquel Urtasun is a prominent Spanish-American computer scientist and entrepreneur recognized for her pioneering work in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, particularly in the context of self-driving vehicles. As the founder and CEO of Waabi, Urtasun leads efforts to develop advanced autonomous driving technologies. She is also a full professor at the University of Toronto, where she focuses on machine perception and computer vision. Her contributions to AI have earned her numerous accolades, including recognition as one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People in AI.
Bio:
Born on January 30, 1976, in Spain, Raquel Urtasun pursued her education in Telecommunication Engineering at the Universidad Pública de Navarra, graduating in 2000. She then obtained her Ph.D. from the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) in 2006, where her thesis focused on motion models for robust 3D human body tracking. Following her doctoral studies, she completed postdoctoral research at prestigious institutions such as MIT and UC Berkeley.
Urtasun began her academic career as an assistant professor at the Toyota Technological Institute at Chicago (TTIC) from 2009 to 2014. In 2017, she joined Uber as Chief Scientist and Head of R&D for their Advanced Technologies Group (ATG), where she led research initiatives on self-driving cars. During her time at Uber, she co-founded the Vector Institute for AI in Toronto to advance AI research and education.
In March 2021, Urtasun left Uber to establish Waabi Innovation, focusing on developing next-generation self-driving technology that leverages AI to enhance vehicle perception and decision-making capabilities.
Raquel Urtasun’s Role in Artificial Intelligence:
Raquel Urtasun is a leading expert in artificial intelligence with a specific focus on machine perception for autonomous vehicles. Her work encompasses machine learning, computer vision, robotics, and remote sensing. At Waabi, she aims to create innovative solutions that improve the safety and efficiency of self-driving technology.
Urtasun has been instrumental in advancing AI applications within the automotive industry. Her research has contributed significantly to understanding how machines can better perceive their environments and make informed decisions based on complex data inputs. She emphasizes ethical considerations in AI development and advocates for sustainable practices within the tech industry.
Throughout her career, Urtasun has received numerous awards for her contributions to AI and technology. In addition to being named one of TIME’s Most Influential People in AI, she has received accolades such as the NSERC EWR Steacie Award and multiple Google Faculty Research Awards.
Nationality:
Spanish-American
Age:
49 years old (as of March 21, 2025).
Educational Qualification:
- Bachelor’s Degree: Telecommunication Engineering from Universidad Pública de Navarra (2000).
- Ph.D.: Computer Science from École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) (2006).
Sources of Wealth:
- Waabi: Founder and CEO of an AI company focused on self-driving technology.
- University of Toronto: Full Professor with a focus on machine learning and computer vision.
- Uber ATG: Former Chief Scientist leading R&D initiatives.
- Vector Institute for AI: Co-founder contributing to AI research and education.
- Research Grants: Multiple awards from organizations like Google and NSERC.
Random Fact:
Raquel Urtasun was named Chatelaine Woman of the Year in 2018 and recognized as one of Toronto’s top influencers by Adweek magazine for her significant contributions to technology and society.
Raquel Urtasun’s leadership in artificial intelligence continues to shape the future of self-driving technology while emphasizing ethical practices and inclusivity within the tech industry. Her commitment to innovation makes her a key figure in advancing AI applications that benefit society as a whole.
Check here to see the most influential people in AI
