Ethereum researcher Justin Drake has decided to step back from advisory roles. He announced this in a recent update, outlining significant changes to his commitments. He stepped down from his role at EigenLayer and left the ultra-sound team.
Drake aims to prioritize Ethereum’s Layer 1 (L1) research and coordination. He stressed a shift towards complete neutrality in his professional focus. His move also includes turning down future advisorships, angel investments, and participation in security councils. This decision surpasses the Ethereum Foundation’s existing conflict of interest policies.
Commitment to Ethereum community standards
He reiterated that legitimacy and public perception are the only leverage anyone has if they want to revolutionize the Ethereum ecosystem. He iterated that he made some mistakes in the past and expressed his desire to adhere to the high standards of the Ethereum community.
Drake already ended his advisory role with EigenFoundation in September. He admitted that taking such positions previously created unnecessary complications. Now, he looks forward with renewed dedication to Ethereum’s core development.
The ultra sound team, which Drake left, continues under the capable hands of three full-time contributors. They now manage operations and decision-making for the ultra sound relay and dashboard. Drake expressed confidence in their abilities and the project’s trajectory.
Optimism for Ethereum’s future in 2025
Through the looking glass of Ethereum’s cyclic growth, Drake highlighted its antifragility. In case a network system experiences some issues, he referred to how the network has managed to go beyond them and thus still remains robust.
Although the past year has been somewhat challenging, he is confident about the future. He sees 2025 as stimulating and significant for Ethereum’s development, particularly in the L1 research and development field.
The update had guided him through a definite diversion from his usual path, yet it was also full of hopeful expectations. Drake is targeting mainly the realization of Ethereum’s ambitious roadmap and the core network’s improvement. In his view, Ethereum is moving ahead and opening new horizons.
