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How do you substantiate the value of a Lab-of-the-Future investment?

 Assessing the Automation and AI potential in future R&D labs

The why

Investing in a Lab-of-the-Future typically requires substantial capital, making it challenging to justify to a CFO. While the benefits of advancing the R&D pipeline faster and with higher-quality outputs are clear, articulating the mechanisms that deliver those benefits is far more complex.

The challenge

Our client planned to significantly expand their R&D activities in the coming years, both by increasing throughput and broadening their portfolio. Although there was strong willingness to invest in new lab facilities, developing a compelling business case proved difficult. Few data points or external benchmarks exist to clearly articulate the impact a Lab-of-the-Future can deliver, making it challenging to substantiate the potential benefits.

How we helped

Biobridge Partners conducted an extensive research effort to understand both the realised impact and the realistic potential of advanced lab automation models. The work included expert interviews with major global pharmaceutical companies, academic institutions, equipment manufacturers, and specialist advisors, complemented by validation across globally available sources. As the findings were triangulated, clear patterns emerged and provided guidance on the potential associated with different automation-maturity archetypes.

Outcome

Across seven maturity levels, the study revealed an overall productivity potential of 25–35%. In addition, several unquantified yet meaningful improvements were also reported. Key benefits of a Lab-of-the-Future are:
5–10× increases in lab throughput  
25–40% direct cost savings  
35–50% time savings  

 

“This is incredibly insightful. I would like you to make the findings available for the benefit of the Lab-of-the-Future community.”

Client sponsor

What moved the needle

beaker Taking a strategic approach to a highly technical question  
beaker Applying a CFO lens while deeply understanding the scientists behind the experiences  
Partner

Jonas T. Karlsen, Ph.D.

Jonas is a life science strategist supporting executives drive progress across the value chain. He is an expert in bridging strategy and execution via global operating model design and transformation rooted in strategic objectives. He engages with structured top-down thinking and a pragmatic and collaborative approach to mobilise organizations and make things happen.

Jonas holds a Ph.D. in biophysics from the Technical University of Denmark, DTU, and further studied at California Institute of Technology. Recipient of the Ministry of Sciences Elite Research Award.

Selected experience

  • Ecosystem integration and external innovation pipeline

  • Lab of the future capability building and operating model design

  • Global clinical operating model design and transformation

  • Pre-launch strategy for cardiometabolic TA development
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