BioForum – Stepping off the ledge: Quantum, AI Technologies and the Future of Drug Discovery
June 24 @ 4:00 pm - 6:30 pm
2025 has been officially declared as the Year of Quantum, marking a pivotal moment in the integration of quantum and AI technologies within the realm of drug discovery.
On Tuesday 24th June, ‘Stepping off the ledge: Quantum, AI technologies and the future of drug discovery’, delivered by BioMelbourne Network and supported by the Victorian Government, is set to delve into this transformative era.
It is an exciting time for this field. Together, quantum and AI are accelerating the ability to model complex biological systems, predict drug behaviours, and unlock new therapeutic pathways. These technologies promise to dramatically enhance precision, shorten discovery timelines, and transform the R&D process from early discovery through to clinical translation. The BioForum will give you the chance to be on the forefront of new developments and thought leadership around this topic.
Global focus, local growth
Aligned with the global focus on quantum innovations and their synergetic interactions with local advancements, it will examine how Victoria and Australia are building momentum as attractive destinations for commercial engagement in the quantum and AI sectors – supporting cutting-edge research, driving biotech innovation, and drawing multinational interest as providers of next-generation services.
Meet and engage directly with leaders in the field
BioMelbourne Network is delighted to bring together leading experts across quantum science, AI, and biotechnology, including Dr Amanda Caples, Victoria’s Lead Scientist.
One of them is Prof Warwick Bowen, Director, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Quantum Biotechnology (QUBIC) & School of Mathematics and Physics, University of Queensland.
“Quantum technologies promise to change how the life sciences are done, from faster drug discovery to better microscopes and earlier diagnostics. It’s exciting that Australia is positioned to lead this transformation.” Professor Warwick Bowen – featured speaker and panel member
Prof Warwick Bowen applies quantum technologies into the life sciences. He leads the Quantum Optics Laboratory at the University of Queensland, which develops quantum and precision sensors for both fundamental science and applications ranging from biological imaging to single molecule sensing, navigation, geological surveying and aerospace. He is also a founder of the start-up Elemental Instruments.
Attendees will have the opportunity to asks panellists what they are most interested in during an interactive discussion, followed by an hour of networking to continue conversations and build valuable new connections. If you cannot attend in-person, we highly encourage you to register for an online participation. Don’t miss your chance, reserve your place.
Who should attend?
Professionals in biotech, public health, research, and policy interested in advancing Australia’s capabilities in Quantum, AI and drug discovery are highly encouraged to attend.
Event details
Date: Tuesday 24 June 2025
Time: 4:00pm – 6:30pm (AEST)
Venue: Jumar Bioincubator, Level 11, 655 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne
Host: Karen Parr, CEO, BioMelbourne Network
Panel & Speakers
Dr Amanda Caples, Victoria’s Lead Scientist, DJSIR – Opening remarks
Prof Warwick Bowen, Director, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Quantum Biotechnology & School of Mathematics and Physics, University of Queensland – Speaker & panel member
Prof Guillaume Lessene, Division Head, Chemical biology and drug discovery of cell death, WEHI – Speaker & panel member
Dr Jane Leong, Director, Development, Australian Centre for Artificial Intelligence in Medical Innovation (ACAMI), La Trobe University – Panel member
*More panel & speakers TBA*
Registration
Ticket details for online and in-person attendance can be found below.
This is a hybrid event with in-person and online attendance options available.