Is AI Changing Scientists? The Future of Pharma with Dr. Rob Dodge

Rob Dodge says AI has made him an expert Python programmer, even though he never took a class in it. But does having new capabilities change what it means to be a scientist?

Dr. Chad Briscoe sits down with Dr. Robert “Rob” Dodge at the AAPS National Biotechnology Conference in San Diego to discuss how artificial intelligence and machine learning are changing pharmaceutical research.

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About the conversation

Rob remembers when spreadsheets changed how scientists calculated and plotted their results. Today, AI helps him write code and investigate scientific data with less reliance on specialist programming support.

He and Chad discuss where these tools are useful, where they fall short, and what scientists still need to bring to the work. Their conversation covers assay development, access to clinical data, scientific writing, and the challenges of using AI in regulated bioanalysis.

Rob also shares his predictions for how machine learning could change established modeling approaches, including quantitative systems pharmacology and design of experiments.

Throughout the discussion, he returns to a familiar principle: scientists still need to develop hypotheses, test them, and question their results.

In this episode

• How scientists are using AI to write Python programs
• What advances in mass spectrometry mean for complex drug modalities
• Machine learning for assay improvement and clinical data analysis
• Why data quality and laboratory experience matter
• Validation and quality assurance challenges in regulated research
• Using AI to draft and review scientific documents
• How independent consultants and smaller teams can use AI as a resource
• Rob’s predictions for the next year in pharmaceutical science

About Dr. Rob Dodge

Robert “Rob” Dodge, PhD, is an independent bioanalytical consultant focused on artificial intelligence and machine learning in regulated bioanalysis.

His more than 30 years in pharmaceutical science include biologics manufacturing, bioanalytical testing, and leadership roles at Bristol-Myers Squibb and Novartis. He co-founded Princeton Bio Lab and previously served as Director of Immunochemistry and Cell Biology at Pharmanet Development Group.

Connect with Rob:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-dodge-phd/

About BioTalk Unzipped

Hosted by Gregory Austin and Dr. Chad Briscoe, BioTalk Unzipped uncovers the stories and science behind medical progress through conversations with scientists and leaders in biotechnology and drug development.

Find more episodes:

https://www.biotalkunzipped.com/

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