Quantum Technologies are Revolutionizing the Drug Discovery Process: Prof. B.J. Rao

     From Lab to Life: Quantum Power Fuels Innovation in Drug Discovery

 

The Federation of Asian Biotech Associations (FABA), in a joint effort with Science Gurus, USA, and the University of Hyderabad (UoH), has officially launched a four-day international workshop on Drug Discovery & Development. The event, held at UoH’s School of Life Sciences, has brought together over 120 participants and more than 25 global speakers from both industry and academia to explore the latest breakthroughs in biotechnology and pharmaceutical research.

The inaugural ceremony was led by Prof. Pallu Reddanna, Executive President of FABA, who underscored the importance of in-person collaboration after several years of online events. He noted that the workshop is a core component of FABA’s annual Innovation Summit, which also includes startup showcases and awards for scientists.

In a special address, Prof. B. J. Rao, Vice Chancellor of the University of Hyderabad (UoH), delivered a profound message emphasizing the fusion of technology, curiosity, and human intellect. He specifically highlighted how quantum technologies are revolutionizing the drug discovery process, compressing timelines from months to mere minutes. Prof. Rao called this a new era of scientific exploration, noting that while physics and chemistry dictate the rules of biology, much of the field remains a “mystery.” He also emphasized that human curiosity is the driving force behind discoveries, and he shared the life story of Nobel laureate Mario Capecchi, who won the prize in 2007. He concluded his remarks by urging all participants to embrace their innate inquisitiveness, affirming that curiosity is the single most powerful engine for future breakthroughs in science and technology.

Prof. Anand Kondapi, Dean of the School of Life Sciences at UoH, spoke about the university’s significant contributions to drug discovery, from initial target identification to clinical trials. He praised Prof. Reddanna for consistently creating platforms that bridge academia, research, and industry.

Dr. P. Ratnakar, Secretary General of FABA, welcomed attendees and reiterated the organization’s mission to be a global catalyst for biotechnology innovation. He showcased FABA’s growth and international reach, including its role in shaping biotechnology policies in countries like Bangladesh. Dr. Jagadeesh Gandla, COO of FABA, provided insights into the entrepreneurship ecosystem and the Whale Tank Fund, which is designed to support biotech startups. He announced that the next edition, Whale Tank 3.0, will be hosted at ISB Hyderabad from November 14–15, 2025.

Dr. J. Jagath Reddy, Board Chairman of Science Gurus, expressed his pride in organizing the workshop in-person and shared his organization’s vision of nurturing scientific curiosity from high school through professional research.

The first day featured a series of expert-led sessions covering a wide range of topics. Dr. Ajith Kamath, Former Head of External R&D at Pfizer, provided an introduction to drug discovery and target identification and validation. Dr. Suresh Poosala, Founder of Acasta Health, discussed PDX Tumoroids as the next generation of organoids. Dr. Shanavas Alikunju, SVP & Head of Discovery Biology Solutions at Aragen Life Sciences, shared insights on repurposing a 50-year-old antibiotic for Rosacea. Dr. Shrihari Jathanakodi and Dr. Renu Balyan from Thermo Fisher Scientific spoke on accelerating drug discovery and development with Olink Technology. Dr. Raghava Reddy Kethiri, Co-founder & CEO of Aryastha Life Sciences, covered lead optimization. Dr. Dhanalakshmi Sivanandhan, CSO of TheraIndx Lifesciences, addressed biochemical pharmacology. Dr. K. S. Rao, Subject Matter Expert at Eurofins Advinus, spoke on safety assessment. Finally, Prof. Nooruddin Khan of UoH, presented on target identification and validation using Psoriasis as a case study.

The workshop will explore key topics such as cell and gene therapies, AI in drug discovery, and regulatory affairs, while also providing valuable networking opportunities.