Artificial Intelligence (AI), autonomous laboratories, and digital twins are rapidly changing the way chemical research and development is conducted. As the industry faces increasing pressure to deliver sustainable materials, circular solutions, and faster product development cycles, traditional R&D approaches are reaching their limits. At AUTOMA Chem 2026, taking place on 26–27 October in Berlin, global industry leaders will explore practical strategies to integrate advanced digital technologies into chemical innovation. The featured R&D session will focus on real-world implementation, technology adoption, and the future direction of digital chemical research.
Overcoming the Challenges of Traditional Chemical Innovation
Developing a new patented chemical, specialty material, or advanced formulation still requires five to seven years to reach commercial scale. At the same time, R&D investments continue to rise, creating the need for faster, smarter, and more efficient innovation models.
The chemical industry is also navigating new challenges, including:
*Increasing demand for sustainable materials and circular chemistry solutions
*Stricter regulations related to emissions, PFAS restrictions, and environmental compliance
*Complex scale-up processes and longer development timelines
*The need for greater return on investment from digital transformation initiatives
Furthermore, much of the industry’s R&D data remains fragmented across disconnected systems. This lack of structured, accessible data limits the effectiveness of AI, predictive modelling, and collaborative innovation.
AI and Digital Technologies Accelerate the Next Era of R&D
To address these challenges, chemical manufacturers, pharmaceutical companies, and technology providers are moving beyond basic digitalisation toward integrated, AI-powered R&D ecosystems.
Emerging technologies are now becoming essential tools for innovation:
*Autonomous laboratories are enabling faster experimentation and data-driven decision-making
*Generative AI and digital design tools are accelerating material and molecule discovery
*Digital twins are improving process optimisation, simulation, and scale-up reliability
*Advanced analytics are helping researchers predict outcomes and reduce development risks
However, successfully scaling these technologies across complex R&D pipelines requires strong data governance, regulatory alignment, and seamless integration between digital platforms.
AUTOMA Chem 2026: Turning Digital Vision into Practical Solutions
Recognising the need for actionable strategies, AUTOMA Chem 2026 will bring together chemical industry leaders, scientists, digital specialists, and technology innovators to address the real-world challenges of implementing digital R&D.
Co-hosted by Evonik with support from WACKER, Covestro, LyondellBasell, and Worley as Regional Partners, the event will focus on:
*Digital transformation roadmaps
*Data management and governance strategies
*AI implementation frameworks
*Cross-functional collaboration models
*Accelerating innovation from discovery to commercialisation
*Expert-Led Sessions on the Future of Chemical Research
The dedicated R&D programme will examine how digital tools are shortening discovery cycles, improving scale-up success, and transforming R&D into a strategic growth driver.
The session will feature insights from leading experts, including:
Jose Seoane, Technology Advisor at Repsol – exploring self-driving laboratories for product discovery
Dennis Krause, Program Manager Digital R&D at Covestro – discussing AI and simulation approaches for advanced materials
Miriam Mathea, Global Scientific Discipline Lead Cheminformatics at BASF – highlighting AI-driven cheminformatics automation
Alexis Torreele, Director, Process & Technology at Worley – examining digital tools for technology scale-up
Ewa Gajewska, Head of Product Management, SYNTHIA® at Merck – showcasing digital solutions for synthesis and drug discovery
Building the Future of Data-Driven Chemical Innovation
The next generation of chemical R&D will be shaped by organisations that successfully combine scientific expertise with intelligent digital workflows. AUTOMA Chem 2026 provides a platform for R&D leaders and technology providers to exchange knowledge, build partnerships, and develop strategies that accelerate innovation. Through expert discussions, networking opportunities, and technology collaboration, the event will help industry stakeholders move from digital experimentation to scalable transformation. Join the transformation: https://sh.bgs.group/4fi
