That idea shaped Vanderbilt’s 2026 Life Science Showcase: AI in Translational Research. Susan Margulies, vice provost for research and innovation, formally opened the event by emphasizing that translational research relies on strong ties between researchers, clinicians, engineers, investors and communities. She pointed to Vanderbilt’s investments in computational infrastructure, interdisciplinary research and cross-sector partnerships as essential to advancing translational research in the age of AI. “It is clear how AI can accelerate research and translate discoveries into meaningful outcomes,” Rowe said. “The power of events like the Life Science Showcase and the role of universities broadly are to convene people, enable partnerships and drive sustainable collaborations.”