Image

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are revolutionising life science research, fast-tracking scientific discoveries and providing invaluable new approaches for scientists pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in this rapidly evolving field. But with this immense promise comes significant responsibility.

EMBL Australia & Bioplatforms Australia are hosting an insightful talk with Professor Ewan Birney, Director of the European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI), as he explores the dynamic landscape of AI in the life sciences. Discover how artificial intelligence is reshaping genomics, drug discovery, and healthcare, paving the way for groundbreaking innovations and improvements in human and planetary health - and how realising AI's full potential requires researchers, practitioners, policymakers and industry leaders coming together to develop robust, ethical, and effective solutions to the challenges it raises.

Prof Michael Parker, EMBL alumnus and Director of the Bio21 Institute, will provide insights into the evolution of structural biology in Australia and the impact of AI.

Dr Merran Smith, Chief Executive, Population Health Research Network (PHRN), will discuss the opportunities and challenges AI brings to Australia’s population health research.

A reception with light refreshments will follow to mark EMBL's 50th anniversary in the context of Australian life sciences.

We welcome Masters students, PhD candidates, Postdocs and Researchers from all scientific backgrounds.

Registration is required to attend. Tickets will be validated upon entry.

ABOUT EWAN BIRNEY

Professor Ewan Birney is a Deputy Director General of EMBL and Director of EMBL-EBI. Ewan completed his PhD at the Wellcome Sanger Institute with Richard Durbin. In 2000, he became Head of Nucleotide data at EMBL-EBI and in 2012 he took on the role of Associate Director at the institute. He became Director of EMBL-EBI in 2015 and Deputy Director General of EMBL in 2020.

ABOUT BIOPLATFORMS AUSTRALIA

Bioplatforms Australia is a non-profit organisation that supports Australian life science research by investing in state-of-the-art infrastructure and expertise in genomics, proteomics, metabolomics and bioinformatics. This is made possible through investment funding provided by the Commonwealth Government National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS). Bioplatforms Australia aims is to enhance these research capabilities, support innovation and help transform scientific outcomes into tangible benefits for Australians.

AGENDA

• 12:45pm | Doors Open
• 1:00pm | Prof Ian Smith (EMBL Australia, Council Chair)
• 1:15pm | Prof Michael Parker (Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, Director)
• 1:30pm | Dr Merran Smith (Population Health Research Network, Chief Executive)
• 1:45pm | Prof Ewan Birney (EMBL-EBI, Director and EMBL, Deputy Director General)
• 2:25pm | Q&A
• 2:40pm | Networking Reception