Cleveland Clinic and the Novo Nordisk Foundation have announced a new academic partnership focusing on leading-edge IT research and its clinical applications. The three-year opportunity is aimed at early-stage researchers working at the intersection of quantum technologies, artificial intelligence and precision medicine.

WHY IT MATTERS

Quantum sensing and AI-driven analytics could improve diagnostics, thereby increasing accuracy and reducing diagnostic times, according to a statement from the health system and the foundation Monday.

Over the next three years, NNF will fund 12 researchers working at both institutions with up to $6.2 million for studies related to diagnostics, drug discovery, personalized medicine and more.

Dr. Lara Jehi, chief research information officer of Cleveland Clinic, said in a statement that the fellowship collaboration is part of its effort to support future biomedical researchers who can harness data and technology to benefit patients and science.

"By combining our strengths, we aim to accelerate the translation of quantum technologies and artificial intelligence into clinical settings, fostering a new era of medical innovation that draws on the best of both our institutions," she said.

Industrial placements will also be offered to the researchers. 

The health system and the foundation said in their announcements Monday that they will encourage researchers to consider three-to-six-month industrial placements for practical experience and to explore market-ready application development.

While in Cleveland, the fellows will also have the opportunity to work with IBM researchers already partnering with the health system on the Discovery Accelerator program.

THE LARGER TREND

Because building quantum computing algorithms could address healthcare challenges, startups collaborate with Cleveland Clinic researchers and investigators through the Clinic Quantum Innovation Catalyzer Program.

Likewise, health systems are using AI to change healthcare and improve health outcomes now, generating a lot of excitement, Dr. Carrie Nelson, chief medical officer at telemedicine technology and services company Amwell, told Healthcare IT News last year.

Use of AI presents risks, and healthcare must strengthen data models "if AI is to live up to its potential to support healthcare workers in improving care quality," she said. "It will take more experience with AI-supported care models to discover what’s possible, what isn’t and how to establish the right guardrails."

ON THE RECORD

"The collaboration between NNF and Cleveland Clinic is designed to enable the use of advanced critical technologies, such as quantum technology and AI, in biomedical research and practical clinical applications, ensuring these innovative technologies contribute to the understanding of disease and improving patient outcomes," said Lene Oddershede, NNF's senior vice president and head of natural and technical sciences.

Andrea Fox is senior editor of Healthcare IT News.
Email: afox@himss.org
Healthcare IT News is a HIMSS Media publication.

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