Artificial intelligence is gradually penetrating all spheres of life, but humans remain science's primary resource. The new episode of the "Simply About Science" podcast is dedicated to the people behind this important and complex process: drug development. The expert on the episode is Alexander Vasilyevich Tuzikov, Head of the Mathematical Cybernetics Laboratory at the United Institute of Informatics Problems of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, Doctor of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Professor, and Corresponding Member of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus.

The development of new drugs is often associated with years of laboratory research. However, modern pharmacology is changing approaches, and the creation of generics—copies of existing patented drugs—is just the tip of the iceberg. A true scientific breakthrough begins when development begins with a clean slate, and before laboratory testing and test tubes are used, powerful computing clusters perform the search for the desired molecule. Generative models make it possible to sift through billions of virtual compounds, predicting their biological activity even before the first chemical synthesis. Similar technologies are also being used in related fields—for example, in materials science to create new substances. However, it's important to remember that artificial intelligence is not a replacement for scientists, but an indispensable assistant.

Science knows no borders, and Belarusian researchers are deeply integrated into the global scientific community. Union programs between Belarus and Russia occupy a special place. Participation in such projects requires not only a powerful computing base but also deep subject matter expertise, which cannot be replaced by automation.

The future of the industry directly depends on those who enter science today. Research teams are being formed organically: universities provide the theoretical foundation, and NAS institutes provide the opportunity to work at the forefront of science, solving real-world applied problems, including in healthcare.

Details are in the podcast. The episode is now available on our YouTube channel. And, of course, we encourage you to subscribe so you don't miss anything important!