The Future of Science: Thermo Fisher VP Reveals AI's Groundbreaking Role
Published on: March 10, 2024
Gavin Hartigan, Vice President of Research and Development for Analytical Instruments at Thermo Fisher Scientific, opened his presentation at the Deep Look event by inviting attendees to envision a future where AI aids in disease prediction, green material design, and the advancement of semiconductor technology.
Bringing an industry perspective, Hartigan highlighted how AI is driving innovation and product development in diverse fields, including life sciences and materials science. He leads a global team at Thermo Fisher, focusing on developing advanced electron microscopy products that offer atomic-scale insights through high-resolution imaging.
Hartigan pointed out the significant potential of AI in electron microscopy, where it can swiftly identify image areas crucial to scientific experiments. This application of AI in imaging interpretation is expected to provide actionable data for critical scientific decisions and discoveries.
According to Hartigan, AI is poised to transform scientific research methodologies. By integrating AI with new instruments, scientists can delegate routine tasks to AI, allowing them to concentrate on innovation and discovery. He emphasizes that AI and analytical software, capable of segmenting and labeling data, will save valuable time that can be redirected to more complex tasks.
Hartigan envisions AI as a catalyst for a scientific revolution, equating its impact to historical innovations like the compass, printing press, and the internet. He sees AI not just as a tool for innovation, but as a means to uncover previously hidden knowledge, with far-reaching implications for human health, sustainable technology, and our understanding of the universe.