On May 1, 2026, the Lahey Innovation Hub will host its inaugural Care-AI-thon, The Air We Breathe, a focused co-design event aimed at optimizing lung cancer screening and patient outcomes through the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence.
This year's event includes a new partnership with the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center (MLSC), the state's economic development agency for the life sciences sector. Together, Lahey and MLSC have developed the Pink & Pearl Challenge, a dedicated track that asks participating teams to build on the established success of breast cancer screening pathways to help close a persistent gap in lung cancer screening rates.
Startups, academic teams, students, and technical innovators are invited to partner with Lahey clinicians and ecosystem experts throughout the event. The goal is to move beyond theoretical models and produce actionable "Service Blueprints" that can be piloted within the Lahey environment.
The collaboration with MLSC reflects a shared commitment to strengthening the life sciences pipeline in Massachusetts, connecting emerging AI talent and technology with real clinical needs. It also builds on the Innovation Hub's broader work with regional partners, including its recent apprenticeship partnership with Northeastern University.
Applications to participate open February 6, 2026. See our Collaboration page for more information.