William Fahey, Data Science Lead at Pfizer, joins the Life Sciences Industry Conference 2026 as the keynote speaker as the event examines how artificial intelligence can be applied and scaled across life sciences manufacturing and operations.

Fahey leads data science within Pfizer’s Manufacturing Intelligence organisation, where he works on scaling AI, machine learning and generative AI across the company’s global biopharmaceutical manufacturing network. His role places data science and emerging technology within the operational environment of a highly regulated industry.

The conference will take place on 22 October 2026 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Santry, Dublin, under the theme “The AI Ready Manufacturing Site”. Its primary focus is the practical application of AI across life sciences manufacturing and operations, covering areas including manufacturing, quality, supply chain, digital transformation and process optimisation.

Fahey’s work at Pfizer provides a perspective on the challenge of taking AI beyond individual experiments and applying it across a global manufacturing network. Scaling AI, machine learning and generative AI requires organisations to consider how technologies integrate with existing manufacturing systems, data and operational processes.

The conference will examine this transition from pilot projects to production, including the data foundations, technology integration, change management and return on investment needed to support wider AI adoption. It will also address responsible AI through governance, regulation, data quality, cybersecurity, validation and accountability within regulated manufacturing environments.

Operational readiness forms another central part of the agenda, with the conference examining the skills, organisational structures and leadership required to support AI adoption. The emphasis is on how manufacturing organisations can prepare their people and processes as AI becomes increasingly embedded in operational environments.

The programme will also consider AI’s potential across the wider life sciences product lifecycle, from research and development through to commercialisation. However, the conference remains focused on manufacturing, operational excellence and organisational readiness rather than commercial applications such as sales and marketing.

Fahey’s experience scaling advanced data science capabilities across biopharmaceutical manufacturing therefore aligns closely with the conference’s central question: how can life sciences organisations move AI into practical, scalable use within regulated operations?

Visit the official Life Sciences Industry Conference 2026 website to register your interest and explore the event programme, themes and latest updates.