AI Partnerships Expand in Pharmaceutical Research and Development

Leading pharmaceutical companies are increasingly integrating artificial intelligence tools into their research and development processes. Multiple firms have announced collaborations with Anthropic to use its Claude models for drug discovery and related activities.

Novo Nordisk stated on 16 September 2026 that it is working with Anthropic to apply Claude models and Claude Science in the search for new medicines. The company indicated it will begin by testing Claude Science within its R&D operations, prioritizing scientific challenges where the partnership can have the most impact.

Bristol Myers Squibb announced in May 2026 a strategic agreement to implement Claude across various business areas, including research, clinical development, manufacturing, and corporate functions. The company said it will also assess the use of Claude Code in drug development and other commercial and medical tasks.

Genmab, in January 2026, announced a partnership with Anthropic to create and use custom Claude-powered AI solutions to support its clinical development goals. Genmab reported that these tools are intended to accelerate data processing, analysis, and document generation, with oversight from human experts.

What the numbers show

• Anthropic acquired Coefficient Bio in May 2026 in a deal reportedly worth $400 million.
• Bristol Myers Squibb’s agreement involves over 30,000 employees.
• Claude for Life Sciences launched in October 2025.

Anthropic introduced Claude for Life Sciences in October 2025, targeting the full spectrum of drug discovery through commercialization. Companies such as Sanofi, Genmab, Komodo Health, and Novo Nordisk have adopted these AI-driven solutions for various R&D activities.

In addition to industry partnerships, Anthropic has begun running its own preclinical drug programs using Claude Science, with a focus on neglected diseases. According to statements by Anthropic’s head of life sciences, Eric Kauderer-Abrams, the company’s objectives include accelerating scientific discovery and reducing the burden of disease and aging through its research initiatives.

Anthropic expanded its capabilities in May 2026 by acquiring Coefficient Bio, a biotech AI startup. The acquisition added Coefficient Bio’s team to Anthropic’s health and life sciences group, supporting further development of AI tools for pharmaceutical research.

Industry reaction

Anthropic’s co-founder and CEO, Dario Amodei, said that providing researchers with access to advanced models like Claude can help shorten research timelines and improve outcomes in medicine discovery.

Bristol Myers Squibb and Novo Nordisk have both announced plans to evaluate and implement Claude models across their research and development workflows, aiming to enhance efficiency and support scientific progress.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.