Novo Nordisk Foundation and Cleveland Clinic Launch Postdoctoral Fellowship Program Targeting Biomedical Applications of Quantum Technologies and AI

Insider Brief

• The Quantum-AI Biomedical Frontiers Fellowship Program aims to integrate quantum technologies and AI into biomedical research to improve patient care.
• Denmark’s investment in quantum technologies and AI combines with Cleveland Clinic’s medical research to accelerate healthcare innovation and foster global collaboration.
• The fellowship offers DKK 43 million ($6.2 million USD) for 12 researchers over three years, focusing on diagnostics, drug discovery, and personalized medicine, with opportunities for industrial placements.

PRESS RELEASE — In a new initiative that blends innovation in quantum technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) with clinical applications, the Novo Nordisk Foundation (NNF), together with Cleveland Clinic, has launched the Cleveland Clinic – Denmark: Quantum-AI Biomedical Frontiers Fellowship Program.

This program, crafted jointly by the Denmark-based NNF and Cleveland Clinic, is dedicated to integrating quantum technologies and AI into biomedical research and patient care, propelling the application of these technologies in medical science and healthcare.

“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, Senior Vice President, Head of Natural and Technical at Novo Nordisk Foundation.

Program vision and strategic objectives

Denmark’s strategic dedication to quantum technologies and AI, supported by substantial investments from the NNF and bolstered by the Danish government, has fostered a dynamic ecosystem for pioneering technological research.

Cleveland Clinic, a renowned academic medical center with a global footprint, is home to pioneering and flourishing biomedical research now supported by the world’s only quantum computer fully dedicated to healthcare research as part of its Discovery Accelerator partnership with IBM. Cleveland Clinic’s expertise in medical research and clinical innovation, particularly its pioneering use of cutting-edge technologies for patient care, synergizes with Denmark’s technological strengths, enhancing the overall impact and reach of the fellowship program.

“This fellowship is a testament to the power of collaboration between Cleveland Clinic and the Novo Nordisk Foundation,” said Lara Jehi, MD, Chief Research Information Officer, Cleveland Clinic. “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. Our vision is to develop the biomedical researchers of tomorrow, those who can harness data and technology to benefit science and our patients.”

Scientific focus and research opportunities

NNF will grant up to DKK 43 million ($6.2 million USD) over the next three years to support exchange of 12 researchers, providing them each with a three-year term to conduct high-level research either at Cleveland Clinic or in Denmark. In Cleveland, the fellows will also have the opportunity to work with IBM researchers collaborating with Cleveland Clinic scientists through the Discovery Accelerator partnership.

The program leverages quantum technologies and AI around key scientific areas, including:

• Enhanced diagnostic precision: Utilizing quantum sensing and AI-driven analytics to improve diagnostics, thereby increasing accuracy and reducing diagnostic times.
• Innovative drug discovery: Applying quantum computing and machine learning algorithms to simulate and predict molecular interactions at an unprecedented scale and speed, potentially reducing the time and cost associated with discovering new drugs.
• Optimization of clinical trials: Employing sophisticated data analysis tools to improve the design and efficiency of clinical trials, enabling more personalized medicine approaches.
• Personalized medicine development: Using AI to analyze vast datasets from genomic information and clinical records to tailor treatments to individual patients.

Collaborative excellence and industrial engagement

In addition to a focus on academic research, this program also encourages applicants to consider industrial placements lasting three to six months with leading technology companies and startups. These placements are intended to provide practical experience and foster the translation of research innovations into market-ready medical solutions.

“We invite forward-thinking clinician scientists and post-doctoral researchers to apply for this unique opportunity,” said Martin Ridderstråle, SVP and Head of Medical Science at NNF. “The application process will be rigorously managed by the NNF’s Committee on Interdisciplinary Research in collaboration with Cleveland Clinic, ensuring a thorough and meritocratic selection process.”

Early-stage researchers interested in becoming leaders at the vibrant intersection of quantum technologies or AI and medicine are encouraged to visit the NNF webpage for more details about the application process.