Artificial intelligence is set to dramatically change the way science is conducted and how new medicines are discovered, but its benefits must be shared globally and developed responsibly, said Demis Hassabis, CEO of Google DeepMind.
Speaking at the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi, Hassabis described AI as a powerful tool that can significantly accelerate scientific research. He noted that advanced AI systems are no longer limited to analysing data but are increasingly capable of generating new ideas and helping scientists solve complex problems in areas such as biology, chemistry and physics.
He highlighted the growing role of AI in healthcare, particularly in understanding diseases and speeding up drug discovery. Processes that traditionally took many years can now be completed much faster with the help of AI models, raising the possibility of developing treatments more efficiently and at lower cost. This, he said, could improve access to life-saving medicines across the world.
Hassabis also pointed out that AI could help address some of the biggest global challenges, including climate change, energy sustainability and food security, by enabling faster innovation and deeper scientific insights.
At the same time, he cautioned that the rapid progress of AI brings important societal and ethical questions. Ensuring safety, fairness and equal access to the technology will require strong international collaboration. No single country or company, he said, can manage the impact of such a transformative technology alone.
He emphasised the need to make advanced AI tools available to researchers and institutions worldwide so that scientific progress is not limited to a few regions. Wider participation, he added, will lead to more inclusive innovation and better outcomes for humanity.
Also Read: Ashwini Vaishnaw opens WAVES Creators’ Corner at India Summit