The BioForum ‘Stepping off the ledge: Quantum, AI technologies and the future of drug discovery’, delivered by BioMelbourne Network, will explore how emerging quantum and artificial intelligence technologies are reshaping the future of drug discovery. 

Together, quantum and AI are accelerating the ability to model complex biological systems, predict drug behaviours, and unlock new therapeutic pathways. These technologies promise to dramatically enhance precision, shorten discovery timelines, and transform the R&D process from early discovery through to clinical translation. 

This BioForum will examine how Victoria and Australia are building momentum as attractive destinations for commercial engagement in the quantum and AI sectors – supporting cutting-edge research, driving biotech innovation, and drawing multinational interest as providers of next-generation services. 

We’ll bring together leading experts across quantum science, AI, and biotechnology to unpack the opportunities these technologies present for researchers, emerging biotechs, and industry at large. 

Attendees will have the opportunity to engage directly with panellists during an interactive discussion, followed by an hour of networking to continue conversations and build valuable new connections. 

This is a hybrid event with in-person and online attendance options available.

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EVENT DETAILS

Date: Tuesday 24 June 2025
Time (AEDT):
3:45 pm: Guest arrival and registration
4:00 pm: Welcome – Karen Parr, CEO, BioMelbourne Network
4:05 pm: Opening remarks – Dr Amanda Caples, Victoria’s Lead Scientist, DJSIR
4:10 pm: Presentation 1 – A/Prof. Giuseppe Barca, Associate Professor in Digital Innovation Computing and Information Systems, The University of Melbourne & Founder, QDX Technologies – remote speaker
4:25 pm: Presentation 2 – Professor Guillaume Lessene, Associate Director of Therapeutics Discovery and Head | New Medicines and Diagnostics, WEHI
4:40 pm: Presentation 3 – Professor Warwick Bowen, Director, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Quantum Biotechnology & School of Mathematics and Physics, University of Queensland
4:55 pm: Panel discussion (30 minutes) –
Dr Simona John von Freyend, Managing Director, PTNG Scientific – panel chair
A/Prof Giuseppe Barca, Associate Professor in Digital Innovation Computing and Information Systems & Founder, QDX Technologies
Prof Guillaume Lessene, Associate Director of Therapeutics Discovery and Head | New Medicines and Diagnostics, WEHI
Prof Warwick Bowen, Director, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Quantum Biotechnology & School of Mathematics and Physics, University of Queensland
Dr Jane Leong, Director Development, Australian Centre for Artificial Intelligence in Medical Innovation (ACAMI), La Trobe University
5:25 pm: Closing remarks – Karen Parr, CEO, BioMelbourne Network
5:30 pm: Networking (in-person only)

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Format: In-person and online, with recording to be made available afterwards for paying delegates.

Ticket pricing: In-person: Members $95; Non Members $195

Online: Members $25; Non Members $45

Venue: Jumar Bioincubator, Level 11, 655 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne

Host: Karen Parr, CEO, BioMelbourne Network 

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BioForum registration

Registration: Secure your place below.

Unsure if your organisation is a member? Check our member directory.

Cancellation policy:

In person registration:

Full refund given up to 3 days prior to the event. No refunds within 3 days of the event.

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This is an event delivered by BioMelbourne Network, supported by the Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions, kindly sponsored by Quantum Australia and hosted by Jumar Bioincubator.