An Anthropology Powered Culture of Biotech Innovation

18 January 2024, 09:45 - 11:00

In this keynote presentation Dr. Hughes offers a profound exploration of the intersection between biotechnology and anthropology. Dr. Hughes, with his extensive background in both academic anthropology and applied research in the life science industry, delves into how biotechnological advancements are not merely scientific feats but are deeply entwined with human experiences, behaviors, and cultures. He argues that the biotech sector, while at the forefront of transformative healthcare, agriculture, and environmental solutions, often overlooks the critical human element.

Dr. Hughes highlights his work in applying theories from anthropology to bridge the gap between biotech and human insights, emphasizing the need to focus not just on the technical aspects but also on the human narratives surrounding illness and wellness. He presents a compelling case for why anthropology is also essential in understanding and shaping the organizational cultures that drive biotech innovations. This approach is particularly relevant in addressing critical and anthropologically salient aspects such as organizational culture and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).

Through his work, Dr. Hughes demonstrates how anthropological methods and insights can provide profound value in understanding the impact of biotech products and the innovative organizations behind them. He stresses the importance of an "inside-out" perspective in guiding biotech organizations, ensuring that their innovations are ethical, inclusive, and socially responsible. This presentation offers an enlightening journey into the heart of biotechnology, inviting attendees to view it not only as a realm of scientific marvels but also as a space where human stories and experiences intersect with cutting-edge innovation.

    Speaker


Thomas Scott Hughes | Associate Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) team, Genmab

Thomas is a PhD Cultural Anthropologist with over a decade of experience developing innovative strategies for world-leading organizations based on a deep understanding of human behavior and what can enable teams to connect as people. 

Thomas is passionate about using his insights from the world of academic research to create uniquely impactful results for businesses. His work has focused on driving value for organizations though deepening their understanding of the power of DEI, their organizational culture, and the customers they serve. Throughout his career, Thomas has delivered human insights-based strategy to leaders at a range of Fortune 500 companies and world-leading NGOs.

Thomas’s current work involves leveraging the insights produced in his 2-year post-doctoral research work studying the organizational culture of Genmab. In his current role on Genmab’s DEI team, he is driving work around creating deep personal connections across cultural differences to enable innovation. 

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