On May 21st, it was that time again: with the 6th Connecting Day, we once again created a platform where decision-makers from the life sciences industry and highly qualified freelancers could meet in person, network and exchange views on current developments. A highlight of the evening was the keynote titled “Humans and AI: The perfect combination for the future job market?” by Anna Kopp, IT Director at Microsoft Germany and Global Head of Women at Microsoft. As one of the pioneers of flexible working models, she delivered an impressive talk on the role of artificial intelligence in the labor market of the future, captivating the audience with her expertise in IT leadership, AI, people empowerment, and new work, as well as with her humor and innovative mindset.

AI as an opportunity – how technology is transforming the Life Sciences industry

In her keynote, Anna Kopp made one thing clear from the outset: AI should not be viewed negatively. Artificial intelligence is not self-executing; it requires a framework, responsibility, and people who actively shape it. Kopp emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive mindset when approaching the “New World of Work,” as the potential of AI is truly fascinating.

Especially in the Life Sciences sector, AI is driving meaningful innovations:

• In research, AI supports sequence analysis and the development of new drug candidates.

• In the pharmaceutical industry, it helps prioritize study content and can help to increase success rates in clinical trials.

• In medicine, AI enhances prevention and diagnostics (e.g. AI-based imaging findings) and supports administrative, operational, and standardized reporting tasks.  AI thus optimizes personalized medicine.

But will AI destroy Jobs?

When discussing the human factor in the workplace, Kopp acknowledged that while AI brings efficiency, it also brings uncertainty. That’s why it’s so important to actively involve employees, e.g. by developing a framework that guide the implementation, training, and customization of AI within the organization. This can include focused training sessions, learning days, or segment-specific resources for internal support. Furthermore, AI and HR strategies should be closely aligned to form a future-ready foundation for business operations. Kopp also stressed the importance of involving works councils early on – for example, as part of pilot or testing groups. Then everyone can help shape the change together. At Microsoft, this co-creation and participation model has been identified as a proven strategy and has been successfully implemented.

One number offers hope: according to studies, AI could eliminate around 1.6 million jobs in Germany, while also creating approximately 2.3 million new ones, many in professions that don’t even exist yet. Examples include AI consultants, clinical data analysts, machine learning experts, AI-focused SEO specialists, AI researchers, and AI ethics advisors.

The rapid increase in adoption further underscores the importance of integrating AI into broader company strategies. A 2024 survey by Microsoft and LinkedIn found that 75% of workers already use AI at work, and 46% of them only started using it within the past six months.

Networking with a view over the rooftops of Munich

After the keynote, the evening continued in a relaxed setting on our rooftop terrace – with inspiring conversations and a stunning view of the Munich skyline stretching all the way to the Northern Alps. Accompanied by culinary highlights like Caesar’s salad, gourmet burgers, and delicious vegetarian alternatives, the personal exchange between industry decision makers, freelancers, and our team remained the heart of the evening.

Thank You for an Inspiring Evening

We would like to thank all our guests, colleagues, and especially Anna Kopp for this forward-thinking impulse and we’re already looking forward to the next Connecting Day!