Owkin launches autonomous AI scientist to accelerate drug discovery

A new AI platform from Owkin, called K Pro, is designed to act as an autonomous "AI scientist," handling complex research questions that traditionally require teams of scientists.

The system builds on existing pharmaceutical AI applications such as trial optimization and target identification, but it goes further by planning and adapting its own analyses without constant human direction. Current customers include Sanofi, Bristol Myers Squibb and Merck.

Co-CEO Pascal Weinberger compares the tool to giving each researcher a pocket-sized data center filled with brilliant Ph.D. students, allowing rapid generation of detailed answers with cited sources.

Industry observers see this shift from AI as a tool to AI as a coworker, suggesting the technology could shorten discovery timelines and reduce costs across the sector.