The Lens: Life Sciences Reinvention in Focus

Just like the life sciences industry, the Driving Digital in Biopharma series has evolved. In each episode, we'll explore the way the industry is being reimagined and reinvented. If you're passionate about the future of medicines and medical technologies, improving patient outcomes and pushing the limits of innovation, The Lens is your essential listen. 

In this insightful episode of Driving Digital in Biopharma, host Tom Lehmann explores with Áine Hanly, Chief Technology Officer at Vir Biotechnology, the transformative role of data and technology in drug development and manufacturing. Áine delves into the advancements in data accessibility and automation, such as single-cell manipulation and high throughput processes, which have notably shortened cycle times and boosted efficiency. She also discusses the innovative use of the Vir AI tool Daisy for antibody design and optimization, which speeds up the process and enhances manufacturability. The episode wraps up by highlighting the critical importance of a robust data strategy and the power of cross-functional partnerships in fostering innovation and operational efficiency across the biopharma industry.

This episode of Driving Digital in Biopharma offers a peek into the digital revolution brewing in the biopharma labs, courtesy of Richard Milne, the Vice-president and general manager of Digital Science Solutions at Thermo Fisher Scientific. From e-commerce roots to pioneering digital science, Richard and Tom delve into the vision for laboratories, and the integration of artificial intelligence and automation in scientific research and lab operations. Their conversation highlights the critical role of digital strategies in enhancing productivity and accelerating scientific advancements. Richard also gives his insights on the future potential of automation and robotics in laboratories, alongside the challenges and opportunities that AI presents in revolutionizing the drug discovery process.

In this episode of "Driving Digital in Biopharma," host Tom Lehmann welcomes Morrey Atkinson, the Chief Technology and Operations Officer at Vertex Pharmaceuticals. With a rich background in process development and manufacturing within the pharmaceutical industry, Morrey shares his insights on Vertex's strategic evolution and its commitment to serial innovation through substantial investments in R&D. They discuss the company’s modality-agnostic approach, which allows flexibility in tackling various diseases, as well as covering the strategic use of contract development and manufacturing organizations (CDMOs) to optimize Vertex's global manufacturing footprint, ensuring rapid and reliable delivery of therapies to patients worldwide.  Listeners will gain a comprehensive understanding of how Vertex Pharmaceuticals leverages digital innovation to maintain its leadership in drug development and manufacturing, setting new standards in the biopharma industry.