E62 #StartupStory “AI-Driven Antibody Design: A Journey from Academia to Industry” with Rahmad Akbar Senior data scientist at Novo Nordisk

In this episode of Life Science Talent Talks, host Nehar Mortuza sits down with Rahmad Akbar, Senior Data Scientist in Antibody Design at Novo Nordisk. Rahmad shares his remarkable journey from his roots in Indonesia to his pivotal role at the forefront of machine learning-driven protein engineering. Together, they explore how AI is revolutionising antibody design — from the technical advances and current challenges to the growing role of generative models in creating next-generation therapeutics. Rahmad offers insights into how these technologies are accelerating drug discovery, improving patient outcomes, and shaping the future of healthcare. He also speaks candidly about his transition from academia to industry, the personal motivations that fuel his work, and why collaboration and innovation are more essential than ever in the life sciences. Whether you're passionate about biotech, data science, or career development, this episode is packed with valuable perspectives you won't want to miss.

Timestamp and Show notes:

00:38 Meet Our Special Guest: Rahmad Akbar

02:19 Rahmad's Journey: From Indonesia to Novo Nordisk

03:35 The Role of Coding in Biotechnology

04:45 Antibody Design: Challenges and Innovations

06:48 Generative AI in Drug Design

10:04 Future Trends and Democratizing AI

19:00 Personal Motivations and Career Reflections

24:31 Transitioning from Academia to Industry

29:47 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

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Warm Regards from your podcast hosts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Nehar Mortuza⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Søren Spanner Bach