EP 111: Combining human and machine intelligence in protein engineering with Dr. James Field, CEO of LabGenius

In this episode of The Genetics Podcast, we welcome Dr. James Field, founder and CEO of LabGenius. Join us as we delve into LabGenius' cutting-edge approach that utilises machine learning, artificial intelligence, and sophisticated robotics to advance antibody discovery and drug development. As a bonus, learn about James’ path from scientist to CEO, and how he created LabGenius.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

01:04 The genesis of LabGenius: protein engineering

04:06 Progressing from human intuition and rules-of-thumb to a mathematically-driven approach to protein synthesis

05:24 Redefining the relationship between human and machine

08:38 Multi-dimensional optimisation: an iterative machine learning approach to design and test various molecules

11:20 The LabGenius Process to developing antibodies: sequencing, testing mammalian expression, and functional cell-based assays

12:50 The relative scalability of functional cell-based assays

14:30 How LabGenius is tackling the bottlenecks in finding antibodies to cure cancer

15:52 Applying protein engineering beyond antibodies to enzymes and other biological molecules

18:12 The challenges in scaling clinical trials and the choice to engage with partners

19:24 James’ shift from scientist to CEO: Overcoming the challenges of fundraising and finding smart investors who share your vision

24:40 James’ entrepreneurial spirit: wanting to build something that is worth the tough journey

26:10 The biggest challenges to creating LabGenius and lessons learned from starting a company

29:00 Navigating the complexities of partnering with large pharma and biotech companies

30:42 Novel technologies on the horizon that redefine what it means to be healthy

32:48 Future Frontiers: The potential for in-silico models in advancing drug discovery

34:58 Closing Remarks