David Holz
International Science and Engineering Fair – 2006
Discovery Channel Young Scientist Challenge – 2001
David Holz is a 2006 ISEF alum whose career spans scientific research, entrepreneurship and AI innovation. In 2021, he founded MidJourney, a generative AI-powered platform that enables users to create unique artwork through text-based prompts. Holz did his graduate research in neuroscience and atmospheric science for the Max Planck Institute and NASA’s Langley Research Center. He studied applied math at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill before leaving his PhD program to co-found Leap Motion, now UltraLeap, where he served as chief technology officer. He joined the Society for Science’s National Leadership Council in 2020. In 2025, he was named one of the most influential leaders in artificial intelligence according to Time.
Holz shared his thoughts about the future of AI with finalists during a fireside chat with Society for Science President & CEO Maya Ajmera during ISEF 2025.
Holz presents the Technology Enhances the Arts category, sponsored by MidJourney, at the Regeneron ISEF 2025 in Columbus, Ohio.
Virtual Regeneron ISEF 2020 - Innovation and Entrepreneurship Panel
Holz returned to ISEF virtually in 2020 to discuss innovation and entrepreneurship with other alumni finalists. He noted how the competition improved his scientific storytelling skills.
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