ELRIG unveils keynote speakers for Drug Discovery 2026
ELRIG announced its keynote speakers for the 20th annual Drug Discovery 2026 conference, featuring Dr Sam Barrell CBE as opening speaker and a panel discussion on industry progress. The event, held 14-15 October at ExCeL London, will cover 18 scientific tracks, including AI in drug discovery, CRISPR, and bioconjugation, alongside startup showcases and awards for early-career professionals.
ELRIG, a volunteer-led organization supporting the global drug discovery community, announced the keynote lineup for its 20th annual Drug Discovery 2026 conference. The event, themed around collaboration and inclusion, will take place on 14-15 October at ExCeL London. Dr Sam Barrell CBE, CEO of LifeArc, will deliver the opening keynote, followed by a panel discussion on the second day featuring Dr Anne Phelan (GSK), Dr Jason Mellad (OtoImmune), Prof Sir Mene Pangalos (AstraZeneca), and Prof Raghib Ali OBE (Our Future Health), chaired by Dr Saleha Patel (ELRIG and Constructive Bio). The conference will explore 18 scientific tracks, including next-generation biophysics, AI-driven compound discovery, CRISPR genome engineering, and cell-based models. ELRIG has partnered with organizations like Cancer Research UK and the Royal Society of Chemistry to expand content coverage. Attendees will gain access to 250+ exhibitors, 400 posters, and dedicated zones for startups, early-career professionals, and students through initiatives like 'Adventures for Tomorrow’s Scientists.' Awards will recognize outstanding contributions in life sciences, innovative science, and impactful posters. Early-career programs include networking sessions like 'Network Like a Boss' and 'Meet & Greet.' The event marks two decades of ELRIG’s role in advancing drug discovery through collaboration and accessibility. Dr Barrell, previously Deputy CEO of the Francis Crick Institute and a senior NHS leader, leads LifeArc’s mission to combat rare diseases and drug-resistant infections. The panel discussion, titled '20 Years of Discovery: Lessons from the Past, Blueprints for the Next 20,' will reflect on progress and future directions in research and development. With 3,000 expected attendees, the conference will feature a Tech Theater, Consultancy Café, and Coaching Corner, alongside structured sessions for students and professionals. The exhibition hall will showcase products and services from leading suppliers in the drug discovery sector.
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