David Gunning

David Gunning joined ARPA-H as a Program Manager in January 2025. He brings decades of expertise in artificial intelligence and technology innovation. Previously, Gunning managed AI research initiatives at Meta and served three terms as a Program Manager at the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). At DARPA, he led transformative AI programs such as Explainable AI and the Personalized Assistant that Learns project that produced the foundations for Apple's Siri.  

Gunning has held leadership roles at the Palo Alto Research Center, Air Force Research Labs, and several companies. He holds a master’s degree in computer science from Stanford University and a master’s in experimental and cognitive psychology from the University of Dayton. His career has focused on managing large-scale AI research initiatives, transforming complex AI models into practical, user-focused solutions.