Partnership to advance TandemAI’s integrated drug discovery platform in collaboration with Mila’s world-leading deep learning research expertise
Montreal, May 19, 2026 — Mila is pleased to announce a new partnership with TandemAI, a New-York based technology company transforming drug discovery through the integration of generative AI, physics-based computational modeling, and a large-scale wet lab infrastructure. The collaboration aims to advance the application of machine learning to drug discovery, with the shared goal of accelerating the development of lifesaving therapeutics. It will also enable TandemAI to benefit from access to Mila’s network of deep learning research experts, advanced knowledge sharing, and a globally recognized innovation ecosystem.
Central to the partnership’s long-term vision is an ongoing effort to explore the potential of world models applied to drug discovery. World models --- general machine learning frameworks designed to capture an understanding of the physical world --- have shown promising results in domains ranging from video game design to self-driving vehicles and robotics, though their application to the molecular sciences and drug discovery remains largely unexplored. TandemAI and Mila aim to help advance this area by developing models that can better capture chemical and atomic-level physical systems. The goal is to enable researchers to perform virtual experiments with greater scope and accuracy, with the potential to significantly accelerate laboratory workflows.
The partnership also reflects a shared commitment to open science and responsible AI development. Both TandemAI and Mila believe that advancing the field requires transparency and collaboration with the broader scientific community, and aim to contribute, where appropriate, to the open exchange of knowledge in ways that are consistent with both organizations' values.
“TandemAI was built on the conviction that the fusion of cutting-edge AI with physics-based modeling can play an important role in shaping the future of drug discovery,” said Albert Pan, CTO of TandemAI. “Partnering with Mila – a leading institution in deep learning research – is a natural and exciting step forward. Together, we aim to explore new approaches to applying AI in drug discovery — including the development of world models that better capture the underlying principles of chemistry and physics — and work toward translating these advances into improved medicines for patients over time.”
“At Mila, we're focused on AI research that connects to real-world challenges,” said Stéphane Létourneau, Executive Vice-President of Mila. “Drug discovery is a domain where machine learning can make a real and lasting contribution to human health and beyond. We are glad to be working with TandemAI, whose integrated platform should provide Mila researchers with a conducive environment for translating fundamental AI research into meaningful outcomes.”
About Mila – Quebec Artificial Intelligence Institute
Founded by Professor Yoshua Bengio, Mila – Quebec Artificial Intelligence Institute is the world’s largest academic AI research center specialized in deep learning, home to a community over 1500 strong. Based in Montreal, Mila was created out of a unique partnership between Université de Montréal and McGill University, dedicated to advancing scientific breakthroughs that drive innovation and ensure AI benefits everyone. A non-profit organization, Mila is strongly supported by the Government of Canada through the Pan-Canadian AI Strategy and by the Government of Quebec. Internationally recognized for its influential research, global innovation partnerships, and leadership in multilateral efforts on responsible AI, Mila continues to shape the future of AI worldwide. For more information, visit mila.quebec.
About TandemAI
TandemAI is a technology company dedicated to transforming drug discovery by integrating generative AI, physics-based modeling (including molecular dynamics and quantum mechanics), and large-scale in-house wet lab operations. Its proprietary platform, TandemViz™, provides pharmaceutical and biotechnology partners with a user-friendly, cloud-based workspace for fully integrated drug discovery, from target identification through to clinical candidate selection. Founded in 2021, TandemAI has raised over $100 million and serves more than 150 biopharmaceutical partners globally. Learn more at tandemai.com.
