The Ethereum Foundation has announced a significant restructuring of its core development team, aiming to streamline operations and sharpen focus on key strategic objectives. The former Protocol Research & Development (PR&D) team has been rebranded simply as “Protocol,” with a renewed emphasis on scaling Ethereum’s base layer, expanding blobspace for rollups, and enhancing user experience. This move reflects the Foundation’s commitment to advancing zero-knowledge rollups and layer-2 technologies, which are seen as pivotal for Ethereum’s large-scale adoption.
Announcing Protocolhttps://t.co/LMANvhQ0X3
— Ethereum Foundation (@ethereumfndn) June 2, 2025
As part of this restructuring, the Foundation has reduced its headcount, though the exact number of staff departures has not been disclosed. Notably, developers Tim Beiko, Alex Stokes, and Barnabé Monnot have been relocated to oversee the newly specified priority areas. The Ethereum Foundation describes the reorganization as a necessary step to create a more unified and agile team capable of responding proactively to the evolving demands of the blockchain ecosystem.
This restructuring follows a series of leadership changes within the Foundation. Earlier this year, co-founder Vitalik Buterin announced a shift toward a leadership model that prioritizes technical expertise and improved communication with developers. In April, the Foundation separated its board and executive roles. Hsiao-Wei Wang and Tomasz Stańczak were appointed as co-executive directors to handle operations. These changes underscore the Foundation’s focus on operational efficiency and its commitment to advancing Ethereum’s technological capabilities.
While the restructuring may raise questions about the Foundation’s internal dynamics, it is clear that these changes are aimed at positioning Ethereum for sustained growth and innovation in the rapidly evolving blockchain landscape.
