Moderna, the biotech giant behind one of the initial mRNA vaccines for COVID-19, is diving headfirst into an AI transformation. By collaborating with OpenAI, they’ve developed thousands of bespoke AI models to carry out tasks previously managed by their human workforce. Notably, this shift is reshaping Moderna’s organisational structure, including a surprising merger of their HR and tech departments under a single leader.
Since their partnership began in 2023 with the internal development of a chatbot utilizing OpenAI’s API, Moderna has been on a roll. By April 2024, they announced an extensive alliance aimed at accelerating the creation of “life-saving treatments.” Employees now have access to ChatGPT Enterprise, which has enabled numerous tailored applications throughout the company.
Among these innovations is Dose ID GPT, an AI model designed to optimise vaccine dose evaluations. According to Moderna’s development team, this model processes vast amounts of data swiftly and accurately. Over the last year, Moderna has ramped up deployment of over 3,000 GPT models across various functions, streamlining complex workflows and enhancing productivity.
This growing reliance on AI has influenced staffing decisions as well. Notably, Tracey Franklin has transitioned from HR lead to ‘chief people and digital technology officer,’ where she’s spearheading the redesign of teams based on the division of labour between human roles and AI automation. While recent layoffs in the digital technology team have sparked speculation about the impact of AI, Franklin has refrained from commenting on this aspect.
Key Points
- Moderna is integrating AI across its operations in a significant workplace transformation.
- Over 3,000 custom AI models (GPTs) have been deployed across various departments.
- The collaboration with OpenAI began in 2023 to streamline processes and improve data analysis.
- AI applications, like Dose ID GPT, are enhancing decision-making in vaccine development.
- The merger of HR and tech departments is a strategic shift aimed at optimising human and AI workflows.
- Recent layoffs have raised questions about the implications of increased AI usage on employment.
Why should I read this?
If you’re even remotely interested in how AI is revolutionising industries, especially healthcare, this article is a must-read! Moderna is at the forefront of melding AI with biotech, and their strategies might just provide insights into the future of work in many sectors. Plus, it’s fascinating to see how a major player is navigating both opportunities and challenges in this brave new world!
