Vall d’Hebron helds a conference to promote the use of artificial intelligence in biomedical research

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the world, and its impact on research and health is increasingly evident. Debates around its application often revolve around issues such as ethics, security, data access or governance models. However, it is still difficult to specify which direction public institutions should follow and how to chart a clear path for effective and responsible implementation. 

With this fundamental challenge in mind, the Vall d’Hebron Research Institute (VHIR) has held a new edition of AIDAY, a conference focused on the use of AI in biomedical research, with the aim of generating ideas, sharing knowledge and connecting the agents who can catalyze a positive future for AI in this field. 

The day began with a workshop in the morning, aimed at VHIR researchers and hosted by Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE), focused on the possibilities offered by AI and the tools available to apply it in biomedical research environments. With the aim of training and inspiring researchers in the use of these emerging technologies. 

In the afternoon, the event was opened to the public, starting with an institutional welcome where VHIR's commitment to the development and integration of AI was reaffirmed. "This session has three aims: focus ideas and reflect on AI, connect stakeholders and catalyze the future", said Dr. Anna Santamaria, Internal Strategy director at VHIR.

Several success stories, both internal and external, were presented, showing how AI is already being used to promote biomedical research and improve patient care. This was followed by a coffee break with an exhibition of posters of VHIR projects related to AI. 

The next block was dedicated to addressing the future, with presentations by leading technology experts, who addressed topics such as shared data spaces for training AI models or natural language processing. One of the most outstanding moments was the conference by Dr. Karim Lekadir, director of the AI ​​in Medicine Lab at the University of Barcelona, ​​who provided an inspiring vision on trustworthy AI and its use on research applied to health.

The day ended with a round table with the participation of several key actors, including representatives of the public health system, technology experts, specialists in social innovation and citizen participation, as well as representatives of the private technology company and the VHIR Digital Transformation Directorate. This session allowed different visions to be put on the table and progress towards a clearer definition of the path to follow to integrate AI effectively and ethically into the research and health system.