Nuray Yurt: AI in Pharma is here; now go back to basics!
SHOW NOTES
In this episode of Leading Minds, host Jasmeet Sawhney sits down with Nuray Yurt, the Head of Integrated Research and Forecasting at Merck and PMSA President, to discuss the evolving role of AI and analytics in the pharmaceutical industry. Nuray shares her insights on how Merck is leveraging AI to drive innovation in analytical processes, including forecasting and market research, and emphasizing the importance of integrating AI into core capabilities rather than treating it as a separate function. Together, they explore the progress of pharma in the AI hype cycle, the challenges of operationalizing AI versus leveraging it for sustainable operations, and the need for redefining KPIs to measure actual impact. Tune in to hear actionable insights on building a future where AI enables continuous improvement and sustainable, long-term value.
IN THIS EPISODE:
- (02:40) Focus on integrating AI into core capabilities
- (03:43) Giving back to PMSA through data science and AI
- (06:37) How pharma is progressing in the AI hype cycle
- (09:20) Discussion of pharma’s need for the best technology
- (12:47) What is the best use of AI in pharma
- (16:00) Discussion regarding operationalizing AI versus leveraging it for effective operations and sustainability
- (22:58) Nuray answers rapid-fire questions
Key Takeaways:
- AI projects must move beyond isolated implementations to become deeply embedded in organizational processes. This ensures sustainable and long-term value by building on past progress rather than starting anew with each initiative.
- Traditional KPIs focused on usage and performance must evolve into multidimensional measures emphasizing storytelling. This approach helps organizations better track and communicate AI's real impact, fostering deeper understanding and alignment.
- Success in the AI era hinges on effectively sharing insights within organizations, enabling faster adaptation and continuous improvement. The focus should be on creating a learning culture and launching better solutions through improved collaboration and clear narratives.
RESOURCE LINKS::
Guest Biography:
Nuray Yurt is the head of integrated research and forecasting at Merck, leading multiple analytics teams globally. Previously, she was the worldwide head of AI solutions at Novartis. Nuray is also the president of PMSA, a nonprofit organization that has been instrumental in bringing together the pharmaceutical data science and analytics community for over 45 years.
About The Host
Jasmeet Sawhney
Jasmeet Sawhney is a life sciences industry executive, marketing leader, and serial entrepreneur with deep roots in technology and data analytics. He is currently the global head of marketing at Axtria. Jasmeet has over 20 years of experience in the life sciences domain and has helped build and scale three successful companies. He has received several company and individual awards, including Inc 500, Deloitte Fast 500, Crain’s NY Fast 50, NJBiz Fast 50, Business of the Year, SmartCEO Future 50, Top CMO, Forty Under 40, and many more.
Quotes
“I feel very fortunate to have the role I have now because if we can bring AI, not as a separate capability, but to existing capabilities, we're definitely going to use it for forecasting, market research, peer research analytics, and data science that actually is going to stick.” Nuray Yurt
“I really think AI should not be a separate thing anymore. It should be part of our basic capabilities. I find this incredibly important. We have to really embed AI into insight generation.” Nuray Yurt
Leading Minds Podcast
The Leading Minds podcast by Life Sciences Voice delves deep inside the minds of the top life sciences executives, including pharmaceuticals, biotech, medical devices, consumer health, animal health, and leaders from related industries. In every episode, we meet a leader who has made a lasting impact in the life sciences industry and continues to drive the industry forward. We go beyond the name and the title to unravel their personality, their beliefs, their mission, and most importantly, to understand how their brilliant minds are changing the world for the better while fueling growth for their companies and their teams. Whether you are on a leadership path of your own, or just here to learn from the experiences of these great leaders, this is the podcast for you!
Season 1
Episodes
Paul Bedard & Jassi Chadha: Reimagining The Future of Pharma Customer Engagement
00:30:25
Ramona Sequeira: Building a Global Organization with Local Understanding of Patient Needs at Heart
00:50:13
Devyn Smith: From a rural and humble upbringing to saving patient lives with cell and gene therapy
00:24:34