Cambridge Healthtech Insitute’s 23rd Annual
Innovative Discovery Technologies
Expanding Chemical & Target Space Using AI/ML and Direct-to-Biology Assays & Models
September 29 – October 1, 2026
Cambridge Healthtech Institute’s Innovative Discovery Technologies conference builds on its long-standing coverage of Target Identification and Validation approaches, to highlight how artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML), chemoproteomics, functional genomics, phenotypic cell-based assays, and advanced imaging are converging to unlock previously “undruggable” targets. It also addresses the urgent need for more physiologically relevant in vitro systems, including 3D organoids and spheroids, bioprinted tissues, microphysiological systems (MPS), and other new approach methodologies (NAMs) to better recapitulate complex cellular interactions and disease pathology. Through real-world case studies and interactive discussions, attendees will gain insights into where and how these technologies are impacting discovery workflows and decisions today.
Coverage will include, but is not limited to:
- AI/machine learning-driven target identification and validation
- AI/ML approaches for predicting protein structure, folding and ligand binding
- Virtual screening powered by AI/ML for predicting drug-like properties and off-target effects
- Emerging proteomics and genomics platforms supporting direct-to-biology discovery
- Chemical biology and chemoproteomic strategies to tackle difficult-to-drug targets
- Screening difficult drug targets using novel modalities like molecular glues and conjugates
- Leveraging 3D organoids, humanized models and NAMs for improving in vivo predictions
- Opportunities for AI-enabled virtual cell models as alternatives to animal testing
- High-content, cell-based phenotypic screening and advanced imaging for complex biology
- Spatial profiling using single-cell sequencing and imaging tools
- Advances in in vivo screening approaches
Who should attend:
- Biologists tackling difficult-to-drug targets in search of the right platforms, tools, and validation strategies
- Target discovery and validation scientists working on target engagement, mechanism-of-action, and deconvolution studies
- Assay developers and screening specialists seeking to deploy next-generation methodologies
- Chemists and biologists evaluating tools to design, screen and test emerging drug modalities
- Computational scientists applying AI-driven virtual screening and integrated DMTA workflows
- Proteomics and genomics innovators pushing the limits of high-throughput, direct-to-biology screening
- Discovery and screening teams integrating 3D organoids, humanized models, and NAMs into drug discovery
The deadline for priority consideration is March 13, 2026.
All proposals are subject to review by session chairpersons and/or the Scientific Advisory Committee to ensure the overall quality of the conference program. Additionally, as per Cambridge Healthtech Institute’s policy, a select number of vendors and consultants who provide products and services will be offered opportunities for podium presentation slots based on a variety of Corporate Sponsorships.
Opportunities for Participation: