Seattle science powerhouses bet big on AI-designed biology

A nearly $95 million Seattle research effort will use artificial intelligence to design biological molecules that do not exist in nature, with potential applications ranging from cancer treatments to new materials. 

AI models will propose biological designs that scientists build and test in the lab, with experimental results fed back into the models to improve subsequent designs. UW researcher David Baker said evolution creates diversity, but “it’s a slow process,” as researchers seek to explore biological possibilities beyond those produced naturally. 

The collaboration among the Allen Institute, University of Washington and Fred Hutch Cancer Center reinforces Seattle’s life sciences leadership by bringing AI and bioscience together around potential new medicines, materials and technologies. 

READ THE STORY at Axios Seattle »

Photo courtesy of the Allen Institute