Ethereum Researcher Josh Stark Departs Ethereum Foundation After Five Years

Leadership Exit Marks Most High-Profile Change Since 2025 Restructuring

Key researcher Josh Stark has announced his departure from the Ethereum Foundation after five years, marking one of the most notable exits since the organization’s leadership overhaul in 2025. Stark, who served as a researcher and project manager, confirmed the decision in a public statement but did not provide a specific reason for leaving.

He said he has no immediate professional plans and intends to take personal time to focus on family and friends. Reflecting on his time within the ecosystem, Stark noted that many early doubts surrounded whether Ethereum could successfully launch decentralized finance or transition to Proof of Stake, milestones that were eventually achieved despite skepticism.

Stark was also one of four individuals listed under management in the Foundation’s organizational structure, with most staff reporting through that leadership layer. His departure follows the resignation of contributor Trent Van Epps, who stepped down a week earlier.

Ongoing Organizational Changes Continue After 2025 Shakeup

The latest leadership changes follow sweeping reforms introduced in January 2025 by Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin in response to community concerns about the ecosystem’s long-term direction. The restructuring focused on bringing in fresh talent, increasing decentralization, and improving transaction throughput and speed.

In March 2025, the Foundation appointed Hsiao-Wei Wang and Tomasz Stańczak as co-directors. Stańczak later stepped down in February 2026, while Wang continues to serve on the management board, according to the Foundation’s latest organizational chart.

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