David Bernier | Scientist / Molecular Designer
Bayer S.A.S.

David obtained a PhD in organic chemistry in the field of natural products synthesis, and moved on to a a postdoctoral fellowship in the field of new synthetic methodologies. In 2008 David joined Bayer S.A.S., where he developed his expertise in crop protection. After experiences at various stages of the hit-to-lead optimization process, he is now project leader and focuses on molecular design for the agrochemical industry. His expertise lies in designing and optimizing molecules along multiparametric safety and efficacy profiles, with a focus on disease control solutions matching the highest standards of sustainability.

As a speaker at Future Labs Live 2025, David will share insights on the need for new tools to analyze SAR during compound optimization, and the development of a new software solution for this purpose.

Appearances:

Day 1: 27th May @ 14:30

A novel tool for accelerating SAR analysis and reporting, to enhance compound design

Analysis is an essential component of the DMTA cycle. Indeed, Structure Activity Relationships analysis (SAR) is a key source of inspiration for compound design. However, SAR analysis is a very time-consuming process, impeding the frequency of regular updates. Moreover, the evolving context demands the consideration and analysis of an increasing array of parameters to design effective and sustainable plant protection products. To address these challenges, Bayer initiated a collaboration with Discngine to develop a new tool to accelerate SAR analysis and reporting across multiple endpoints. The ultimate goal is to support, guide and improve decision making in projects both in terms of quality and efficiency. The tool contains several modules enabling the creation of SAR overviews in a fully streamlined manner and facilitate in-depth analysis of Matched Molecular Pairs (MMP) and R-Group deconvolution reports. We will present the rational to engage into the development of this tool, provide an overview highlighting its capabilities and its potential to significantly facilitate SAR analysis and impact on compound design. Lastly, we will discuss our extended collaboration with Discngine and the productization of one of our SAR reporting module, now available for commercial use as a Discngine solution, ‘SAR Slides’.

Aurelie Mallinger, Laboratory Leader, Bayer