Life sciences company Danaher plans to launch its first AI-powered autonomous research lab early next year.

The lab will combine AI, robotics and technologies from Danaher's operating companies in one connected workflow.

It will develop custom antibodies and other molecular tools. The goal is faster, more efficient drug discovery.

The company says the lab will make discovering molecules eight times faster. It expects a tenfold rise in target-binding molecules per year.

Scientists will be freed to focus on complex challenges, said chief science officer JC Gutierrez-Ramos. Human insight remains key.

The lab uses AI to design molecules that bind to specific biological targets. Each result feeds back into the model.

It is part of a broader Danaher programme to build a fleet of smart instruments across the company.

Autonomous labs are a growing trend in pharma. They promise to cut the time and cost of bringing drugs to market.

Danaher's operating companies include well-known life-science brands. The lab will link their tools in one workflow.