Biotech Bytes: Conversations with Biotechnology / Pharmaceutical IT Leaders

Steve Swan
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Apr 9, 2026 • 40min

Why Diverse Thinking Builds Better AI | Biotech Leadership with Fernando Bardella

Why Diverse Thinking Builds Better AI in Biotech #aiinbiotech #pharmatech #leadershipinsightsIn this episode, Fernando Bardella shares why diversity in experience and thinking plays a critical role in building better AI systems and stronger business outcomes in biotech and the pharmaceutical industry. Please visit our website to get more information: https://swangroup.net/ With experience across more than 40 countries, Fernando explains how global exposure shapes leadership, improves decision-making, and helps organizations scale effectively. The conversation explores how teams with different perspectives create more reliable AI, reduce bias in data, and improve real-world results in healthcare and life sciences.We also discuss the importance of trust, collaboration, and aligning technology with people when implementing AI in organizations. From global biotech hubs to leadership challenges, this episode gives a practical view of how innovation actually works beyond theory.If you’re working in biotech, pharma, or AI in healthcare, this conversation offers clear insights into leadership, strategy, and building better systems through diverse thinking.Links from this episode:✅ Get to know more about Steven Swan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/swangroup ✅ Get to know more about Fernando Bardella:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/fernandobardella ✅ Learn more about Bardella PhD: https://bardella.phd  🔔𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬.https://www.youtube.com/@Biotech_Bytes/?sub_confirmation=1 🔗 Stay Connected With Us.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-swan-group/ Website:  https://swangroup.net/   =============================🎬Suggested videos for you:▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CaHwarSYhrA ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=be8szNVFrNk ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Be6WEEy2JM ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqpB3pGywkU ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9QyuG6p3Ys=============================#aiinbiotech #pharmatech #leadershipinsights #healthcareai #biotechinnovation #artificialintelligence
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Mar 19, 2026 • 49min

Why Technology Fails Without People | Michael Saitow Explains AI, Innovation & Success

Technology leadership insights #technologyleadership #peoplefirsttech #biotechinsightsIn this episode, Michael Saitow explains why technology success begins with people and clear goals. Please visit our website to get more information: https://swangroup.net/ Many companies pick tools before defining what they want to build and why. They focus on automation and AI without aligning teams around a shared destination. Michael highlights common issues in biotech and manufacturing where misalignment across leadership stops progress. The conversation explains how leaders should define purpose before choosing software or AI solutions. You will learn why people and process matter more than tools alone, how to align cross-functional teams, and why organizational culture drives innovation.Specifically, this episode highlights the following themes:How misalignment across leadership teams quietly derails technology initiativesWhy defining the “why” matters more than choosing the toolThe evolution from automation and machine learning to today’s AI umbrellaLinks from this episode:Get to know more about Steven Swan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/swangroup Get to know more about Michael Saitow: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-saitow Learn more about Saitow Consulting: https://www.saitowconsulting.com🔔𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬.https://www.youtube.com/@Biotech_Bytes/?sub_confirmation=1 🔗 Stay Connected With Us.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-swan-group/ Website:  https://swangroup.net/   =============================🎬Suggested videos for you:▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6EzJ1F_6pg ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=be8szNVFrNk ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Be6WEEy2JM ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqpB3pGywkU ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9QyuG6p3Ys=============================#technologyleadership #peoplefirsttech #biotechinsights #leadershipstrategy #aiadoptionadvice #teamalignment
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Feb 26, 2026 • 44min

AI in Pharma Marketing with Nataliya Andreychuk | Pharma Content Strategy

AI in Pharma Marketing with Nataliya Andreychuk | Pharma Content Strategy, Personalization & Localization #pharmamarketing #aihealthcare #digitalpharmaIn this episode, we talk about how AI is changing pharma marketing and communication. Nataliya Andreychuk, CEO of Viseven, explains how teams use AI to create content that follows rules and connects with doctors and patients. Please visit our website to get more information: https://swangroup.net/ We cover how marketing in pharma is moving from product-focused to useful and relevant messages. Nataliya discusses personalization at scale and how digital tools help make content faster and more accurate. You will hear why data, CRM, and social listening help shape content strategy and how AI helps reduce time for localization and regulatory checks. The episode explains how communication between medical teams and commercial teams is becoming closer with smarter tools. This talk shows how relevant content makes it easier for healthcare professionals and patients to find answers and improve engagement.Links from this episode:✅ Get to know more about Steven Swan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/swangroup ✅ Get to know more about Nataliya Andreychuk: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreychuk ✅ Learn more about Viseven: https://viseven.com/ ✅ Nataliya’s Music Pick:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vh9sBLXBZII  🔔𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬.https://www.youtube.com/@Biotech_Bytes/?sub_confirmation=1 🔗 Stay Connected With Us.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-swan-group/ Website:  https://swangroup.net/   =============================🎬Suggested videos for you:▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6EzJ1F_6pg ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=be8szNVFrNk ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Be6WEEy2JM ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqpB3pGywkU ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9QyuG6p3Ys=============================#pharmamarketing #aihealthcare #digitalpharma #contentstrategy #personalization #localization AI in Pharma Marketing with Nataliya Andreychuk | Pharma Content Strategy
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Feb 5, 2026 • 48min

Why Communication Is the Most Underrated Skill in Biotech Leadership | Michael Piperno

Leadership Communication Skills | #leadershipcommunication #executivepresence #presentationskillsIn this episode of Biotech Bites, host Steve Swan talks with leadership communication expert Michael Piperno about how to improve the way you communicate in the boardroom, in presentations, and in interviews. Please visit our website to get more information: https://swangroup.net/They break down real communication coaching tips, why executive presence matters, and how to connect with your audience. You’ll learn practical advice on building confidence, listening actively, structuring your message, and handling tough conversations at work. This video is perfect for anyone looking to sharpen their leadership communication skills, boost their presentation skills training, and stand out in meetings or interviews with executive presence and confidence. Whether you're in life sciences, biotech, or a professional setting, these coaching insights will help you communicate with clarity and impact.Links from this episode:Get to know more about Steven Swan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/swangroup Get to know more about Michael Piperno: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelpiperno Check out Michael’s podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-life-sciences-leadership-show/id1796246371 Learn more about The Comvia Group: https://www.wearecomvia.com/author/michael3420/ 🔔𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬.https://www.youtube.com/@Biotech_Bytes/?sub_confirmation=1 🔗 Stay Connected With Us.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-swan-group/ Website:  https://swangroup.net/   =============================🎬Suggested videos for you:▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6EzJ1F_6pg ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=be8szNVFrNk ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Be6WEEy2JM ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqpB3pGywkU ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9QyuG6p3Ys=============================#leadershipcommunication #presentationskills #executivepresence #communicationcoach #careerconfidence #professionalgrowthWhy Communication Is the Most Underrated Skill in Biotech Leadership | Michael Piperno
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Jan 15, 2026 • 49min

How AI Is Changing The Way Small Biotechs Grow And Compete - Real Talk With Tyson Kamikawa

What It Takes To Build IT For A Biotech Company! #pharma #aiforbiotech #podcastCan AI really help build a small biotech company from the ground up? Please visit our website to get more information: https://swangroup.net/ In this episode, I sit down with Tyson Kamikawa, VP of IT at Synindex Pharmaceuticals, to talk about how AI is changing the way small biotech companies grow. Tyson shares his journey from IBM to biotech, how IT supports research and operations, and what AI tools are actually making a difference.It’s a real, practical look at AI’s role in modern biotech. If you enjoy honest conversations about tech and biotech, make sure to like and subscribe for more episodes like this.Links from this episode:✅ Get to know more about Tyson Kamikawa: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kamikawa ✅ Learn more about Syndax: https://syndax.com/🔔𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬.https://www.youtube.com/@Biotech_Bytes/?sub_confirmation=1 🔗 Stay Connected With Us.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-swan-group/ Website:  https://swangroup.net/   =============================🎬Suggested videos for you:▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NQN6X206A94 ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZWXIIe66-kI ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6EzJ1F_6pg ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=be8szNVFrNk ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Be6WEEy2JM =================================#biotech #biotechbytes #biotechit #pharmatech #innovation #aitrends #lifescience #biotechleadershipHow AI Is Changing The Way Small Biotechs Grow And Compete - Real Talk With Tyson Kamakawa
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Dec 23, 2025 • 29min

A Year of Biotech Bytes: The Stories, Lessons, and Laughs Behind the Mic

A Year of Biotech Bytes: Reflections, Stories, and Honest Moments#biotechbytes #biotechpodcast #behindthemicThis episode is a look back at the year, the lessons we learned, and the moments that shaped Biotech Bytes. Please visit our website to get more information: https://swangroup.net/I’m joined by Mary Louise Smith, the voice, support, and good energy behind every episode. She’s the person many listeners never see, yet she’s a major part of why this podcast runs the way it does. We talk about how Biotech Bytes really started, why simple conversations often lead to the best ideas, and how AI can help us focus on the work that matters most. Mary also shares what leadership looks like behind the scenes and a few personal stories that shaped our year, including our shared love for chocolate.If you’ve listened this year, thank you for being part of this community. Let us know what topics or guests you want to hear in the new year.Links from this episode:Get to know more about Bill Wallace: https://www.linkedin.com/in/williamwallace2Learn more about Intercept Pharmaceuticals:https://www.interceptpharma.com🔔𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬.https://www.youtube.com/@Biotech_Bytes/?sub_confirmation=1 🔗 Stay Connected With Us.Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-swan-group/ Website:  https://swangroup.net/   =============================🎬Suggested videos for you:▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6EzJ1F_6pg ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=be8szNVFrNk ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Be6WEEy2JM ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqpB3pGywkU ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9QyuG6p3Ys=============================#biotechbytes #biotechpodcast #behindthemic #leadershipstories #aiinworkplace #humanconnectionA Year of Biotech Bytes: The Stories, Lessons, and Laughs Behind the Mic
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Dec 4, 2025 • 43min

How AI is Shaping the Future: The Rise of The Bionic Professional with Bill Wallace

How AI is Shaping the Future: The Rise of The Bionic Professional with Bill Wallace #aitechnology #futureofwork #bionicprofessional Step into the exciting world where AI is transforming the way we work and the very nature of our professions. Please visit our website to get more information: https://swangroup.net/ In this episode, I’m joined by Bill Wallace, Chief Information Officer at Intercept Pharmaceuticals, as we explore how AI is reshaping industries, and the rise of the bionic professional. Together, we dive deep into how biotechnology, AI, and professionals can work hand-in-hand to create smarter, more efficient workplaces.From the advancements in biotechnology to AI’s integration into daily business operations, discover the potential for professionals to become bionic, enhanced by technology for maximum productivity and innovation. Bill shares his insights on AI’s current role in business, and what the future holds for the professionals who embrace these changes.Unlock valuable perspectives and stay ahead of the curve with this in-depth conversation about the future of work and AI’s growing impact on our professional lives.Links from this episode:Get to know more about Bill Wallace: https://www.linkedin.com/in/williamwallace2 Learn more about Intercept Pharmaceuticals:https://www.interceptpharma.com🔔𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬.https://www.youtube.com/@Biotech_Bytes/?sub_confirmation=1 🔗 Stay Connected With Us.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-swan-group/ Website:  https://swangroup.net/   =============================🎬Suggested videos for you:▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZWXIIe66-kI ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6EzJ1F_6pg ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=be8szNVFrNk ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Be6WEEy2JM ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqpB3pGywkU =============================#aitechnology #futureofwork #bionicprofessional #aiworkforce #aiimpact #techinterviewsHow AI is Shaping the Future: The Rise of The Bionic Professional with Bill Wallace
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Nov 13, 2025 • 38min

How AI Is Accelerating Drug Discovery | Smbat Rafayelyan (Bioneex CEO)

AI in Drug Discovery | #aidrugdiscovery #biotechinnovation #medicalinnovationAmid a rapidly changing biotech landscape, AI is transforming how we discover and develop new medicines. Please visit our website to get more information: https://swangroup.net/ In this episode, I sit down with Smbat Rafayelyan, founder and CEO of Bioneex, a platform that connects early-stage biotech innovators with investors and pharma companies using AI-driven insights. He shares his journey from big pharma to entrepreneurship and how his team is reshaping drug discovery.We explore how personalized large language models are being applied in biotech, the role of data integration in connecting biotech, pharma, and investors, and why China’s biotech ecosystem is fueling a surge of innovation.✅ How personalized AI models improve drug discovery and evaluation✅ The role of data integration in connecting biotech, pharma, and investors✅ Global opportunities, including China’s emerging biotech sectorIf you’ve ever wondered how AI is making sense of scientific data chaos, this episode is a must-watch.Links from this episode:✅ Get to know more about Smbat Rafayelyan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-smbat-rafayelyan/?originalSubdomain=de ✅ Learn more about Bioneex: https://bioneex.com🔔𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬.https://www.youtube.com/@Biotech_Bytes/?sub_confirmation=1 🔗 Stay Connected With Us.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-swan-group/ Website:  https://swangroup.net/   =============================🎬Suggested videos for you:▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZWXIIe66-kI ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6EzJ1F_6pg ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=be8szNVFrNk ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Be6WEEy2JM ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqpB3pGywkU ================================= #aidrugdiscovery #biotechinnovation #pharmainsights #aiinhealthcare #futureofmedicine #medicalinnovationHow AI Is Accelerating Drug Discovery | Smbat Rafayelyan (Bioneex CEO)
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Oct 23, 2025 • 49min

Mastering Recruiting: Why Building Genuine Relationships Will Always Matter

Mastering Recruiting: Why Building Genuine Relationships Will Always Matter #recruiting #executiverecruiting #talentacquisition In this interview with Janelle Razzino, we get deep into the core of successful recruiting, building genuine relationships. Please visit our website to get more information: https://swangroup.net/ While the landscape of recruiting has changed, the value of human connection remains paramount. Janelle shares her insights on why recruiting is all about people, how relationships shape the hiring process, and how understanding others can lead to hiring success.You’ll learn:How recruiting has evolved over time and why relationships are still keyThe importance of building trust in the hiring processThe role of AI in recruitment and how it complements human judgmentStrategies for leaders and HR professionals to enhance their recruiting effortsWhether you're a recruiter, HR professional, or someone looking to improve your hiring processes, this video will provide valuable insights for better recruitment.✅ Get to know more about Janelle Razzino:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/janellerazzino ✅ Learn more about Razzino Associates, Inc.: http://www.razzinoassociates.com🔔𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬.https://www.youtube.com/@Biotech_Bytes/?sub_confirmation=1 🔗 Stay Connected With Us.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-swan-group/ Website:  https://swangroup.net/   =============================🎬Suggested videos for you:▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NQN6X206A94 ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZWXIIe66-kI ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6EzJ1F_6pg ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=be8szNVFrNk ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Be6WEEy2JM =================================#recruiting #executiverecruiting #talentacquisition #recruitmenttips #hiringstrategies #humanresources
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Oct 2, 2025 • 41min

AI & Low-Code: The Future of Biotech IT Leadership | Kevin Dushney

AI & Low-Code Transformation in Biotech IT #biotechit #AIrevolution #lowcodetechnologyIn this episode, Kevin Dushney, a seasoned CIO with over eight biotech companies under his belt, shares invaluable insights into the rapidly changing landscape of biotech IT. Please visit our website to get more information: https://swangroup.net/ With the rising impact of AI and low-code tools, small biotech teams can now deliver more than ever before. Kevin discusses how these tools are reshaping workflows and how fractional CIOs are transforming leadership models.From the challenges of compliance to the hype around AI, Kevin cuts through the noise and breaks down what’s real, what’s useful, and what’s not. Tune in to hear practical strategies and discover what’s truly happening behind the scenes in biotech IT.Links from this episode:✅ Get to know more about Kevin Dushney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevindushney 🔔𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬.https://www.youtube.com/@Biotech_Bytes/?sub_confirmation=1 🔗 Stay Connected With Us.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-swan-group/ Website:  https://swangroup.net/   =============================🎬Suggested videos for you:▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6EzJ1F_6pg ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=be8szNVFrNk ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Be6WEEy2JM ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqpB3pGywkU ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9QyuG6p3Ys=============================#biotechit #airevolution #lowcodetechnology #biotechleadership #fractionalcio #aitoolsAI & Low-Code: The Future of Biotech IT Leadership | Kevin Dushney

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