Third edition of LIFE Science Conference a great success
A completely sold-out venue, inspiring keynotes, the 10th anniversary of the LIFE Cooperative, and a thrilling conclusion with Neolook Solutions winning the Innovation Award. These ingredients formed the ideal recipe for a vibrant edition of the LIFE Science Conference on Tuesday, 24 September. This year's conference focused on the theme 'Data Science for Life Science,' emphasizing the integration of data and artificial intelligence in the life sciences and health sector. More than 200 entrepreneurs, researchers, and policymakers gathered to exchange knowledge and network about the sector's future and ambitions.
The conference, held at Forum Groningen, was opened by moderator Renée van der Sluis, followed by the official kick-off by Carine Bloemhoff, alderman of the municipality of Groningen, and Peter Ketelaar, director of the LIFE Cooperative. "For the third consecutive year, we are organizing the conference on the fourth Tuesday of September. It’s becoming a true tradition, and I’m proud that we can once again showcase our innovative cooperative in the life sciences and health, celebrate our 10th anniversary, and toast afterward. I urge everyone to keep networking and continue seeking new collaborations and ideas," said Peter Ketelaar.
‘AI makes healthcare more personalized’
Wiro Niessen, Captain of Science at the Top Team Life Sciences & Health and an expert in the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in medicine, delivered an engaging first keynote. He foresees a crucial role for creating a data-driven infrastructure in healthcare. With the right data, healthcare can become more precise and personalized.
After a short break, the audience returned for the second keynote delivered by physician, administrator, and professor of Medicine Marcel Levi. In his keynote, Levi discussed the broader societal implications of AI and data science and their role within healthcare, business, and science. He emphasized that while there is significant potential for data and AI in healthcare, human involvement remains indispensable and cannot be replaced by computers.
Celebration of innovation and collaboration
A highlight of the afternoon was the celebration of the 10th anniversary of the LIFE Cooperative. This milestone was marked by an interactive panel discussion featuring several members of the LIFE Cooperative, such as Symeres and Ardena, who have roots in the region but are making an impact worldwide. The panel discussion explored future ambitions and reflected on the past ten years. This was also the moment when two valued board members of the LIFE Cooperative, Ton Vries and Johannes Wolters, bid farewell. Their years of dedicated service and leadership have played a significant role in the development of the life sciences sector in Northern Netherlands.
Innovation Award
The inspiring afternoon concluded with the announcement of the Innovation Award. Three innovative startups—Enatom, Neolook Solutions, and IVY Medical—took the stage and presented their groundbreaking innovations in compelling pitches. After the jury deliberation, Neolook Solutions was declared the winner, taking home the prize money and the unique rotating trophy. Marco D'Agata, CEO of Neolook Solutions, proudly shared their plans for the prize money: "We will largely allocate the prize to the people for whom we are developing this tool—the nurses who do the real hard and incredibly important work."
About the LIFE Science Conference
The Life Sciences & Health sector is thriving in Northern Netherlands, with global impact. Through the annual conference, the LIFE Cooperative aims to highlight this impact, foster new collaborations, and facilitate networking. The LIFE Science Conference is held annually on the fourth Tuesday of September.
The event is made possible by Health~Holland, Topsector Life Sciences & Health, gemeente Groningen, Bedrijvenvereniging WEST, NV NOM, ICON, Innocore, Kadans Science Partner, ThermoFisher Scientific, BOOM Lab, Symeres, Lode Holding en Ofichem Group
Photography: Casper Maas Fotografie
