Beyond Discovery: Closed-Loop Systems & Defensible AI-Bio
Event Overview As models improve and access widens, discovery itself is becoming cheaper. But prediction alone doesn't create enduring advantage. As AI moves beyond prediction, the advantage shifts to deployment, experimental feedback, and the systems that reduce the gap between computational design and functional biology. Beyond Discovery explores what that shift demands. Discussion Topics When models become commodities, what becomes defensible? What actually breaks when AI-generated designs meet biological systems? Are we measuring the right things, or simply the easiest things to measure? What infrastructure is still missing to close the loop? No recycled drug discovery narratives. Just founders, researchers, engineers, and investors working at the frontier, willing to disagree. Moderated by Natalie SaadehCo-founder, DiagnoBac's On the Panel Parag MallickCo-Founder & Chief Scientist, Nautilus Biotechnology; Associate Professor, Stanford UniversityBuilding next-generation technologies for AI-driven biological measurement and proteomics. Natalie MaChief Business Officer, Deep OriginAdvancing physics-informed AI for drug discovery and computational molecular design. Cristian PonceCo-Founder & CEO, Tetsuwan ScientificBuilding AI-powered laboratory automation and scientific infrastructure for biology. Vasudev Bailey, PhDCo-Founder, Hologen; Biotech InvestorInvesting in frontier AI and biotechnology companies from research through commercialization. Agenda 5:30–6:15 PM — Arrival & Networking6:15–6:20 PM — Opening Remarks6:20–6:25 PM — Welcome from Berkeley Gateway Accelerator & Bits in Bio6:25–6:30 PM — DiagnoBac's: What we're building and why.6:30–7:20 PM — Panel Discussion7:20–7:30 PM — Audience Q&A7:30–8:00 PM — Networking Event Details 🗓 Thursday, August 13 | 5:30–8:00 PM📍 Berkeley Gateway Accelerator, Berkeley, CA🎟️ Free to attend Meet the Hosts Berkeley Gateway AcceleratorBased in Berkeley, California, this deep tech accelerator and venture fund helps founders transforms breakthrough technologies into enduring companies by bringing together exceptional talent, interdisciplinary collaboration, and strategic capital. Bits in BioConnecting the bioeconomy by bringing together innovators working at the intersection of software, AI, and biology. Its global community of more than 12,000 founders, scientists, investors, and operators fosters collaboration across the life sciences ecosystem. DiagnoBac'sDeveloping an AI platform for intent-driven biomolecular design that optimizes biomolecules for function in their intended biological context. By integrating machine learning, biophysical constraints, and experimental feedback, we reduce experimental iteration while accelerating the development of biomolecules for diagnostics, therapeutics, and beyond. Join founders, researchers, engineers, investors, and operators from across the Bay Area for an evening of discussion and networking. Can't attend in person? The panel discussion will be livestreamed and recorded. Registered attendees will receive viewing instructions before the event.
