Life Science
R&D Strategy
Scientific and technology priorities, digital R&D capabilities and operating models that support discovery, development and strategic decision-making.
Independent advisory · Life Science R&D · Data Management · AI Adoption · Strategic insight
Turn life science aspirations into impact using data, AI and strategic insight
Advice to life science organisations and technology providers on applying scientific, data and digital capabilities to deliver practical progress and sustainable organisational change.
Start a conversationFounder · Independent advisory
Allan Christian Shaw
I am a life science executive and scientist with a PhD in molecular microbiology and 23 years of experience at Novo Nordisk, including senior global leadership roles across pharmaceutical R&D, data, digital technologies and AI.
My experience spans scientific research, project management, building and leading global R&D organisations, establishing digital, data and AI capabilities, evaluating emerging technologies and developing external partnerships. I also bring experience from board and advisory roles across industry and academia, spanning life science, data and AI.
I established ACSpire Advisory to bring my insights and expertise to organisations navigating key decisions about their R&D, technologies and future direction in a rapidly evolving life science research environment.
I move effortlessly between executive-level perspectives and scientific and technical details, connecting easily with people at all levels. I bring clear, evidence-based opinions while remaining open to challenge and new perspectives. I combine analytical thinking with creativity and an entrepreneurial mindset, challenging established approaches when needed to identify opportunities for improvement.
EXPERTISE AREAS
From definition of strategy to practical progress
Life Science
Data Management
and Governance
Assessing and strengthening data governance and knowledge management to make scientific information more reliable, accessible and reusable.
AI Strategy
and Adoption
Identifying high-value opportunities, prioritising AI use cases and shaping adoption in R&D workflows.
Product & Technology
Evaluation
Independent assessments of scientific software and AI solutions — including scientific relevance, functionality, usability, workflow fit and product readiness.
Business Development
& Partnerships
Pharma customer insights, value propositions, market positioning, commercial priorities and strategic partnerships for life science technologies.
Digital Transformation
& Change
Digital transformation priorities, organisational readiness and leadership support to embed new capabilities and ways of working in R&D.
My Approach
How to make change sustainable
I / ASSESS & CHALLENGE
Examine the challenge
Review the data, evidence, assumptions and trade-offs behind scientific, technology, product or business decisions.
II / SHAPE & PRIORITISE
Define a way forward
Turn findings into clear options, recommendations and priorities.
III / ADVISE & SUPPORT
Support practical progress
Work with leaders and teams to shape scientific and technology priorities, product direction and partnerships, while supporting technology adoption and organisational change.
Contact
Let’s explore what’s next
I welcome a conversation about your challenges and opportunities.
Start a conversation