Keynote: AI Transformation in Pharma: Building Responsible, Safe, and Governed Systems

How do organizations deploy autonomous AI systems while maintaining control, safety, and regulatory compliance? What risks and governance challenges emerge as AI systems gain greater autonomy? As capabilities advance, organizations must establish robust frameworks to manage these systems responsibly. Pavel Vacha, PhD., Director, Responsible AI and AI Research at MSD, presents practical approaches to AI governance for an era of increasing autonomy. The session explores key aspects of Responsible AI, distinguishing between AI safety and AI security approaches, and demonstrates implementation through four strategic pillars: policies, processes, people, and training. The presentation discusses the impact of autonomous agents and how varying autonomy levels affect system risks. Attendees will learn decision frameworks to determine when autonomous AI agents deliver value and when traditional AI solutions offer safer, more cost-effective alternatives. The session is designed for executives, product managers, technology leaders, compliance officers, pharmaceutical professionals, and anyone responsible for AI deployment in regulated industries.