SLAS Europe 2025 conference to showcase innovations in drug discovery and laboratory automation
The SLAS Europe 2025 Conference and Exhibition is set to convene in Hamburg, Germany, from 20 to 22 May, presenting a robust programme designed to advance knowledge and innovation in the field of drug discovery and laboratory automation. Now in its latest iteration, the event targets executives and professionals involved in associations, confederations, and trade bodies related to life sciences, providing a platform to explore emerging technologies and foster collaboration.
This year, the conference revolves around three core educational tracks: Advances in Drug Discovery, Advances in Laboratory Automation, and Screening Applications and Diagnostics. Each track is structured to deliver in-depth insights into recent scientific and technological developments, offering delegate groups a comprehensive overview of current and future trends shaping the industry.
The Advances in Drug Discovery track focuses on how integrative multi-omics, spatial biology, artificial intelligence (AI), and systems pharmacology are transforming therapeutic development from early-stage research to clinical application. Emphasis will be placed on innovative approaches such as translational models, drug repurposing strategies, and native structure biology, playing crucial roles in accelerating both the efficacy and precision of new treatments reaching patients.
Conversely, the Advances in Laboratory Automation track highlights cutting-edge advancements in laboratory workflows supported by automation and IT infrastructure. Presentations will emphasise the use of big data analytics, machine learning, and AI to manage and interpret the growing data volumes produced by omics studies, high-content screening, and drug discovery sample management. A notable feature within this stream is a special session sponsored by the European Laboratory Robotics Interest Group (ELRIG), which will concentrate on scaling complex in vitro models, a key challenge in modern biomedical research.
The Screening Applications & Diagnostics track addresses the evolving landscape of screening technologies and diagnostic processes in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. Delegates will be introduced to the latest developments in phenotypic screening, label-free technologies, functional genomics, precision medicine, and minimally invasive diagnostics. Special attention will be given to the incorporation of AI and machine learning to streamline target identification and drug lead discovery, alongside tackling global health challenges such as drug resistance and antibiotic misuse. The track also explores patient-centred testing initiatives, including point-of-care and at-home diagnostic solutions.
Adding a new dimension to this year's conference is the Technology Provider Showcase, intended to foster direct engagement between attendees and regional laboratory automation and biotechnology companies. These half-day, in-person interactive sessions scheduled for Tuesday, 20 May, will feature detailed presentations, demonstrations of scientific equipment, and facility tours that offer a thorough view of operational workflows. Participation in the Showcase requires separate registration, underscoring its role as a specialised networking and educational opportunity within the broader event.
The conference will be bookended by keynote addresses from two distinguished figures in the realm of pharmaceutical and biosciences research. Opening the event, Jan Baumbach, PhD and Director of the Institute for Computational Systems Biology, will bring insights from computational biology, a field pivotal in data-driven life sciences. Closing the conference, Carina Ämmälä, PhD, Senior Director at Novo Nordisk, will share expertise stemming from her extensive experience in preclinical drug discovery, specifically in diabetes research and translational experimental strategies.
The SLAS Europe 2025 conference is optimally designed to serve leaders and decision-makers in associations and trade groups by offering a wealth of knowledge on emerging scientific advancements, cutting-edge laboratory technologies, and opportunities to forge partnerships across the sector. The blend of educational tracks, new exhibitor showcases, and keynote presentations assures visitors access to vital information and interactive experiences likely to influence the future trajectory of drug discovery and laboratory automation. The event underlines its role as a critical nexus for the life sciences community seeking to maximise impact through innovation and collaboration.