The chemistry industry, supported by data-driven technologies and a capabilities-focused approach, is entering a transformative phase where innovation cycles are shorter and more complex than ever before. The integration of deep technologies such as generative artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and the Internet of Scientific Things (SIoT) is paving the way for a revolution in how research and development is conducted.
Traditional R&D models in the chemistry industry are being reconsidered in light of urgent needs for sustainability and rapid technological advancements. More than 55% of the data produced in research laboratories is classified as unstructured or dark data and is not used to gain any insights.
More than 50% of researchers struggle to replicate their experiments, and over 70% fail to reproduce experiments conducted by others.
According to research by Deloitte, three elements must be addressed simultaneously to ensure success in the energy and chemicals industry:
Data and technology-driven R&D,
Skills-based and capabilities-focused R&D,
Collaborative and ecosystem-supported R&D.
1. Supporting Innovation Through Data and Technology: The future of R&D in the chemistry industry is largely dependent on data and technology. Improving modeling and simulation capabilities, incorporating deep technology into R&D workflows, and updating cybersecurity measures are significant steps toward modernizing R&D infrastructure. These changes aim to reduce dependence on physical experiments by shifting towards in-silico experiments and simulations that can significantly accelerate discovery and innovation. There are three priorities for R&D leaders to fully leverage data and technology-driven R&D:
Enhance modeling and simulation capabilities: With increasingly shortening innovation cycles, modeling and simulation capabilities are a true competitive advantage for a chemistry company. Enhancing these capabilities is essential for leaders in chemistry and materials science to solve future complex challenges.
Incorporate deep technology into R&D workflows: Integrating deep technology into R&D workflows at any stage of discovery will enhance the innovative power of next-generation R&D. It’s all about merging the real and virtual worlds for smarter, faster, and scalable discovery.
Update R&D cybersecurity: R&D leaders also need to keep R&D cybersecurity updated. This is not only about preventing cyberattacks on the most critical infrastructures; it is also about ensuring safe and secure collaboration within larger and more complex ecosystems.
2. Focusing on Talent and Skills: The role of human capital cannot be overstated. As R&D becomes more complex, the demand for various skills and capabilities grows. The sector needs to attract and retain the right talents by focusing on skills-based hiring and creating a work environment that promotes flexibility and collaboration, blending physical and digital realms. There are three key activities to help companies in the chemistry sector prepare for future skills-based and capabilities-focused R&D:
Focus on skills and diversify teams: Innovative approaches and digital tools allow employees to develop and upskill their abilities efficiently and effectively by optimizing learning experiences.
Combine physical and digital worlds: Establishing a symbiotic relationship between technology and people allows for seamless integration of these tools into daily laboratory practices, ultimately making the work of R&D staff easier.
Adopt new working methods: With the support of cloud-based infrastructure and deep technologies, flexible working and collaboration models that engage talent from a broader workforce ecosystem are not just desirable; they are essential.
3. Ecosystem-Focused Innovation: In addition to technological and capability improvements, the next-generation R&D strategy heavily emphasizes collaborative and co-creative efforts within larger, decentralized ecosystems. These ecosystems are not just about cooperation; they also involve creation alongside academics, startups, and other stakeholders. This approach enables a more dynamic innovation process that can respond more adeptly to market needs and scientific challenges. To succeed in this new reality, next-generation R&D leaders must:
Start thinking in ecosystems: The challenges encountered are elements of brand value and mindset ecosystems. The most dramatic cases may require a change in the overall company culture. Leverage ecosystem thinking.
Prepare R&D data for data ecosystems: Preparing easily discoverable, accessible, interoperable, and reusable data is a good starting point for ecosystems.
Explore the role of R&D in generating revenue from ecosystems: R&D plays a vital role in creating financial benefits for ecosystems. To solve the complex challenges presented by sustainability and circularity goals, chemistry and technology must converge, combining atoms and bytes, the physical and the virtual.
To access the full study published by Deloitte: https://www.deloitte.com/de/de/Industries/energy-chemicals/perspectives/next-generation-r-and-d-chemical-and-material-science-industry.html
