Neil Chilson is a lawyer, computer scientist, and author of the book “Getting Out of Control: Emergent Leadership in a Complex World.” As a senior research fellow at the Center for Growth and Opportunity, Chilson researches how different regulatory approaches facilitate or suppress technological innovation and human progress. In particular, he focuses on competition and antitrust policy and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and advanced computing.

Chilson joined CGO from major philanthropic community Stand Together where he spearheaded ST’s efforts to foster an environment that encourages innovation and the individual and societal progress it makes possible.

Previously, Chilson was the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) chief technologist. In this capacity, he focused on understanding the economics of privacy, convening a workshop on informational injury, and establishing the FTC’s Blockchain Working Group, among other things. Prior to his appointment, Chilson was an adviser to then-Acting FTC Chairman Maureen K. Ohlhausen. In both roles he advised Chairman Ohlhausen and worked with commission staff on nearly every major technology-related case, report, workshop, and proceeding. Chilson practiced telecommunications law at Wilkinson Barker Knauer, LLP before joining the FTC in January 2014.

Chilson is a regular contributor to multiple news outlets, including the Washington Post, USA Today, and Newsweek.

Chilson holds a law degree from the George Washington University Law School and a master’s degree in computer science from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. He received his bachelor’s degree in computer science from Harding University.