Ethereum Researchers Leave EigenLayer Advisory Roles

Justin Drake and Dankrad Feist, prominent researchers from the Ethereum Foundation, have stepped down from their advisory roles at EigenLayer, a move announced months after controversy kicked up here over potential conflicts of interest.

What's the scoop?

• The Context: In the spring, the researchers confirmed their involvement with EigenLayer, the ETH restaking protocol, in exchange for EIGEN token allocations. Their advisory roles drew criticism from some around the Ethereum community, sparking debates about conflicts of interest and the ethical boundaries for Ethereum Foundation researchers.
• Stepping Down: On November 2, Feist and Drake took to social media to announce their advisory roles resignations. Feist acknowledged the community's unease, stating that while the role was negotiated in good faith, he understood the perceived conflict. “For many, the conflict of interest this creates is difficult to reconcile with my role as an Ethereum researcher,” he wrote.
• Clearing the Air: Drake added that he regretted the decision and had relinquished his position before any EIGEN tokens were vested. “I want to apologize to the Ethereum community and EF colleagues for the drama I caused,” Drake said, further committing to refuse future advisory or investment roles.

Bankless Take:

Collaboration between projects and researchers can accelerate technological progress, but it has to be navigated carefully to uphold the ethos of transparency and impartiality that underpins Ethereum. That said, the response here from Drake and Feist highlights the Ethereum community’s self-regulating nature, its commitment to integrity, and the collective prioritization of principles over profit.

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