Moderna, the biotechnology firm best known for its COVID-19 vaccines, has partnered with artificial intelligence giant OpenAI to accelerate its drug development processes. This collaboration focuses on the use of AI technology, including dosage determination during clinical trials.
With a valuation of US$47 billion (~A$71 billion), Moderna aims to leverage AI to automate functions across departments, from legal to research and development, enhancing efficiency and reducing the need for a large workforce.
Chief executive Stephane Bancel said the technology would enable the launch of 15 new products within five years, which would otherwise be unattainable.
“If we had to do it the old biopharmaceutical ways we might need 100,000 people. The company is less than 6,000 people. We really believe we can maximise the impact on patients with a few 1,000 people using technology and using AI because we can scale the company,” said Bancel.
The company has rapidly integrated AI, deploying hundreds of generative AI tools across its operations. This initiative has required significant restructuring of company processes to maximise the benefits of generative AI.
Moderna’s use of AI extends to its legal department and drug trial phases, where AI tools help summarise contracts and optimise dosage recommendations. The integration aims to enhance productivity and safety in drug development, ensuring thorough human-led reviews augmented by AI.
The collaboration with OpenAI also supports Moderna’s long-term commitments in Australia, including a 10-year agreement with the government to manufacture respiratory vaccines in Melbourne.
OpenAI chief executive Sam Altman said, “Moderna is leading the way by empowering all of its employees to use AI to tackle complex problems.
“We look forward to continuing to collaborate with Moderna to bring a new generation of medicines to patients in need.”