Yuri Milner
Early Life and Education
Yuri Borisovich Milner was born on November 11, 1961, in Moscow, Russia. He grew up in a family with a strong academic background; his father, Boris Milner, was a prominent economist, and his mother, Betty Iosifovna Milner, was a scientist. Yuri Milner attended the Moscow State University, where he earned a degree in theoretical physics in 1985. He later pursued a Ph.D. in particle physics at the Lebedev Physical Institute, which he left in 1990 to pursue a career in business.
Career Beginnings
Milner's initial foray into the business world began in the early 1990s when he joined the World Bank in Washington, D.C., as a banking specialist. His role at the World Bank provided him with valuable insights into the global financial system and the dynamics of emerging markets. This experience laid the groundwork for his future ventures in the technology and investment sectors.
Investment Ventures
Digital Sky Technologies (DST)
In 1999, Milner co-founded NetBridge, an internet company that later merged with Port.ru to form Mail.ru Group. However, his most significant impact came through Digital Sky Technologies (DST), which he founded in 2005. DST became a major player in the technology investment landscape, focusing on internet companies with high growth potential. Under Milner's leadership, DST made several high-profile investments, including stakes in Facebook, Twitter, Spotify, and Alibaba.
DST Global
In 2009, Milner rebranded DST's international operations as DST Global. This move allowed the firm to expand its investment portfolio and attract more global investors. DST Global continued to focus on late-stage investments in leading internet companies. Some of its notable investments include Airbnb, WhatsApp, and JD.com.
Breakthrough Initiatives
Yuri Milner is also known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in the field of scientific research. In 2012, he co-founded the Breakthrough Prize with Sergey Brin, Anne Wojcicki, Mark Zuckerberg, and Priscilla Chan. The Breakthrough Prize aims to celebrate and support scientists who have made significant contributions to their fields. The prize covers various disciplines, including fundamental physics, life sciences, and mathematics.
Breakthrough Listen
One of the most ambitious projects under the Breakthrough Initiatives is Breakthrough Listen. Launched in 2015, Breakthrough Listen is a comprehensive search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI). The project utilizes some of the world's most powerful telescopes to scan the skies for signals from advanced civilizations. The initiative is considered one of the most significant efforts in the search for extraterrestrial life.
Breakthrough Starshot
Another notable project is Breakthrough Starshot, announced in 2016. This initiative aims to develop a fleet of light sail spacecraft capable of traveling to the Alpha Centauri star system, the closest star system to Earth. The project envisions sending tiny, lightweight probes propelled by powerful laser beams, allowing them to reach speeds of up to 20% of the speed of light. If successful, these probes could reach Alpha Centauri in just over 20 years.
Personal Life
Yuri Milner is married to Julia Milner, a contemporary art photographer and philanthropist. The couple has two daughters. Milner is known for his low-profile lifestyle, often avoiding the media spotlight. Despite his significant wealth and influence, he maintains a relatively private personal life.
Legacy and Impact
Yuri Milner's contributions to the technology and scientific communities have left a lasting impact. Through his investments, he has played a crucial role in the growth and success of some of the world's most influential internet companies. His philanthropic efforts, particularly the Breakthrough Prize and Breakthrough Initiatives, have provided substantial support for scientific research and exploration.