Alpha Cell community gathers to set the course of the program

Researchers and trainees from across SciLifeLab have met earlier in September to discuss the future development of Alpha Cell, a program that aims to build AI-driven models to predict the structure and function of the human cell. Alpha Cell is one of SciLifeLab’s flagship programmes, a long-term strategic research initiative that addresses fundamental challenges in life science through advanced technologies, large-scale data generation and interdisciplinary collaboration. Together with the Human Protein Atlas, Alpha Cell will provide open-access resources for the global scientific community. Both programs are made possible by donations from Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation.

Jan Ellenberg and Mathias Uhlén introduced Alpha Cell and its aims, followed by an overview of the program’s organisation, governance and community. The scientific program highlighted existing data and infrastructure from the Human Protein Atlas, opportunities to develop AI models, and plans for large-scale imaging data.

“This first meeting was an important opportunity to bring the community together, and align on the core plans, collaborations and data needed  to move Alpha Cell forward,” says Caroline Gallant, Scientific program manager for Alpha Cell.