Episode 1: Trust, tech, and trials: AI's role in Parkinson's research

Topics: In this episode of the Fortrea neuroscience podcast, we explore how AI is transforming Parkinson's research-from bold promises to practical breakthroughs. Fortrea's Amber Burg sits down with Joanie Brown, Head of Operations at our Rapid Development Studio AI/ML and Mark Austin, CTO at Ixico, to unpack the evolving role of artificial intelligence in clinical trials. Together, they dive into how AI is being used to enhance imaging, accelerate trial timelines, and improve patient stratification in Parkinson's disease. Listeners will hear real-world examples of AI-powered tools in action - from automated biomarker quantification to predictive modelling - and how these innovations are already delivering measurable gains in trial efficiency. The conversation also tackles the big questions around trust, transparency, and regulatory readiness, offering a candid look at what it takes to build confidence in AI-driven research.

Whether you're navigating your first AI-enabled trial or scaling your next one, this episode offers practical insights and fresh perspectives from the front lines of neuroscience innovation.

Host: Amber Burg, Therapeutic Delivery Head of Neuroscience and Ophthalmology at Fortrea

Participants:

• Joanie Brown, Head of Operations at our Rapid Development Studio AI/ML, Fortrea
• Mark Austin, Chief Technology Officer at Ixico

References:

1. Fehlis Y, Crain C, Jensen A, et al. Accelerating drug discovery through agentic AI: a multi-agent approach to laboratory automation in the DMTA cycle. arXiv [Preprint]. 2025 Jul 11.
2. Ocana A, Pandiella A, Privat C, et al. Integrating artificial intelligence in drug discovery and early drug development: a transformative approach. Biomark Res. 2025;13(45). doi:10.1186/s40364-025-00758-2.
3. Wenteler A, Cabrera CP, Wei W, et al. AI approaches for the discovery and validation of drug targets. Cambridge Prisms: Precision Medicine. 2024;2:e7. doi:10.1017/pcm.2024.4.