Carnegie Mellon University Appoints New Leader to Propel SEI’s National Security Mission Forward
As technological advancements in software, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence continue to reshape national security, Carnegie Mellon University is positioning itself at the forefront of these changes. The university has appointed Jason M. Brown as the new director and CEO of the Software Engineering Institute (SEI), a Department of War-sponsored, federally funded research and development center.
Brown, who will assume his role on November 16, brings a wealth of experience from his tenure in military operations, the Department of War, and the defense technology industry. His arrival signals a pivotal moment for the institute as it seeks to expand its role in evaluating and employing emerging technologies responsibly at scale.
“Jason brings an exceptional breadth of experience to this role,” stated Theresa Mayer, CMU’s vice president for research. She highlighted Brown’s comprehensive understanding of national-security missions from various perspectives, making him well-suited to lead SEI as it moves into its next phase.
As the new director, Brown will guide the SEI’s strategic direction and oversee its research and technology-transition activities. He will also liaise with federal sponsors and partners, as well as connect with researchers across Carnegie Mellon to align the university’s strengths with national security needs.
“The department’s expertise in AI, cybersecurity, and software has advanced remarkably, but critical questions remain about their evaluation and use,” said Brown. “Carnegie Mellon and the SEI can help the department understand both their potential and their vulnerabilities.”
Brown’s career spans significant roles in the U.S. Air Force and the defense industry, including leadership positions focused on intelligence and emerging technology. He was instrumental in founding the U.S. Air Force Artificial Intelligence Accelerator at MIT and has been a part of the Department of Defense’s Joint Artificial Intelligence Center.
Continuing SEI’s Legacy in National Security
The SEI has historically influenced how the Department of War develops software, addresses cybersecurity threats, and integrates AI. Brown aims to further SEI’s impact, particularly in shaping the development of autonomous systems and modernizing government software evaluation processes.
John Gilligan, chair of the SEI Board of Visitors, remarked, “The SEI is exceptionally well positioned for its next chapter, with extraordinary people, deep technical capabilities, and trusted partnerships.” He also extended gratitude to Paul Nielsen for his leadership over the past 22 years.
Leadership Transition and Future Prospects
Brown succeeds Paul Nielsen, who has led the SEI since 2004. Nielsen has been a guiding force through years of technological evolution and institutional growth. “It has been an honor to serve the SEI,” Nielsen said, expressing confidence in the institute’s continued leadership.
Carnegie Mellon will honor Nielsen’s contributions at a reception in early 2027. As the SEI embarks on this new phase with a renewed federal mandate, it remains poised to leverage its expertise in emerging technologies while ensuring secure and reliable support for critical national missions.
“The SEI’s impact rests on the extraordinary expertise of its people and the trust it has built across government, industry, and academia,” said Mayer. “With Jason’s leadership, the institute is well positioned to build on its success.”
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