Staying Relevant and Effective as an MSL in the Era of AI

Why This Program is Important

As Artificial Intelligence (AI) rapidly transforms the healthcare landscape, Medical Science Liaisons (MSLs) must adapt, evolve, and embrace new competencies to maintain their strategic relevance.

This highly practical, 4-hour virtual training program is designed to equip MSLs with the skills needed to navigate and utilize AI confidently in their daily activities, while enhancing the human-focused capabilities that technology cannot replicate. Participants will explore real-world use cases, ethical considerations, AI tools, and evolving expectations from KOLs, while learning to apply AI effectively, without losing the human elements that define MSL excellence. 

Training Topics and Learning Outcomes

1. Introduction to AI in Medical Affairs

Learning Outcomes:

• Define the scope and function of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within the context of Medical Affairs and the MSL role

• Differentiate between AI as a tool for augmentation versus replacement of field medical professionals

• Identify key trends and current applications of AI relevant to MSLs

2. Using AI Tools for Daily MSL Activities

Learning Outcomes:

• Demonstrate the practical use of generative AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Elicit) to support literature review, insight generation, and communication
• Distinguish between GenAI vs. AI, and understand LLMs, deep learning, machine learning, and use of autonomous agents
• Apply prompt strategies to improve the accuracy, relevance, and compliance of AI outputs
• Recognize the limitations of AI tools and the importance of critical human review
• Apply practical use cases: KOL preparation, AI-supported SLR, data analysis, literature summarization, and real-time information retrieval

3. AI Ethics and Compliance in Field Medical Affairs

Learning Outcomes:

• Identify potential compliance risks associated with AI-generated scientific content
• Apply ethical principles and internal guidelines to evaluate AI-assisted materials
• Make informed decisions to ensure legal, regulatory, and medical compliance
• Understand your responsibility to verify AI outputs and use them appropriately

4. Understanding and Using AI Agents in KOL Engagement

Learning Outcomes:

• Define what an AI agent is and how it differs from basic generative AI tools
• Identify common types of AI agents (e.g., retrieval agents, summarization bots, autonomous research agents) relevant to Medical Affairs
• Explore practical use cases for AI agents in MSL-KOL interactions (e.g., customized briefing reports, real-time literature synthesis, responsive Q&A assistants)
• Demonstrate how MSLs can collaborate with technical teams to create or tailor AI agents for specific scientific engagement needs
• Understand ethical and compliance considerations when using autonomous AI agents in field medical roles

5. Emotional Intelligence (EI) in an AI-Augmented Environment

Learning Outcomes:

• Apply core EI skills—such as empathy, active listening, and self-awareness—to enhance KOL engagement
• Recognize the limitations of AI in capturing emotional context
• Adapt interpersonal strategies to maintain trust and credibility in digital interactions

6. Scientific Curiosity and Digital Literacy

Learning Outcomes:

• Evaluate AI tools for scientific accuracy, bias, and reliability
• Demonstrate intellectual curiosity by questioning AI outputs and seeking alternative interpretations
• Cultivate a growth mindset to remain adaptable in rapidly evolving digital environments

7. Influencing Medical Strategy with AI-Enhanced Insights

Learning Outcomes:

• Translate field observations into strategic recommendations using AI-enhanced insights
• Communicate synthesized data with clarity and relevance to internal stakeholders
• Align field-generated insights with broader Medical Affairs objectives

8. Building and Sustaining Value-Added KOL Relationships

Learning Outcomes:

• Integrate AI-derived information into personalized, meaningful scientific discussions
• Differentiate between data-driven outreach and authentic relationship-building
• Refine the tone and presentation of AI-generated communications to ensure credibility

9. Change Agility and Mindset Development

Learning Outcomes:

• Recognize personal and professional barriers to adopting AI in field medical roles
• Apply change agility strategies to remain resilient, adaptable, and forward-looking in a rapidly evolving environment
• Understand the importance of embracing innovation to stay relevant and valuable

10. Action Planning and Competency Reflection

Learning Outcomes:

• Identify core competencies essential for remaining effective and relevant as AI adoption expands
• Develop a personalized learning plan focused on AI literacy, EI, and strategic communication
• Commit to specific behavioral actions to reinforce long-term skill development

11. If KOLs Have ChatGPT, Why Do They Need an MSL?

Learning Outcomes:

• Articulate the unique value that MSLs provide through scientific interpretation, clinical context, strategic dialogue, and trusted relationships
• Explain why AI cannot replace human judgment, credibility, or the ability to co-create scientific value with KOLs
• Reinforce the MSL’s role as a scientific partner who elevates AI-derived information into impactful, real-world applications

12. Primary Benefits of Using AI Tools in the MSL Role

Learning Outcomes:

• List and explain the top benefits of AI integration:
• Identify how AI can be used to streamline key MSL tasks and maximize impact

13.  What does the Future Hold for MSLs? 

Learning Outcomes:

·         Explore key trends and predictions about how AI and digital enablement will reshape the MSL role in the next 3–5 years

·         Identify the emerging skills, tools, and strategic competencies MSLs should begin developing now

·         Consider current data that suggests future changes, such as industry surveys and ongoing research, and how these can be utilized in career planning

Registration Fees

Established Countries

• $500.00 USD (Non-Members and Guest Members)
  
• $450.00 USD (Professional and Organizational Level Members)
  

Emerging Countries (Requires a promo code provided upon request) 

• $380.00 USD (Non-Members and Guest Members)
  
• $300.00 USD (Professional Level Members and Organizational Level Members)

The Established and Emerging Country pricing tiers are based on the UN's Humanitarian Development Index (HDI), which does not use economic growth as the sole criteria of a country's capacity, but also assesses the capabilities of its citizens. The HDI is based on 3 indices, namely the Life Expectancy Index, the Education Index, and the GNI (Gross National Income) Index. You can learn more about it here. 

Established Countries include the following: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, China (SAR), Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea (Republic of), Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Singapore, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and the United States.

*Emerging Countries include all other countries not mentioned in the list above.

* PLEASE NOTE-The "Emerging Countries" level is NOT available for those living or working in an "Established Country". All enrollments will be verified.

Please send an inquiry to Cedric de la Seña at cedric.delasena@themsls.org  to take advantage of the special pricing if you are currently in one of the Emerging Countries mentioned above.

Don't miss out on this incredible learning and networking opportunity in our virtual training—limited seats available, enroll today!

Additional Information:

Cancellation Policies

Training Event Schedules
MSL Training schedules are subject to change without notice based on minimum attendance requirements. Please check session’s schedules frequently. The MSL Society may cancel scheduled classes up to ten (10) days prior to the scheduled start of the event if certain attendance minimums aren't met.

Refund Policy
A cancellation of a scheduled virtual training date made before Ten (10) days prior to the scheduled session will be refunded 100% of the registration fee. After this deadline, we will not be able to offer any refunds. However, if you are unable to attend the program, we can transfer your registration to a future session and guarantee your seat.

Proprietary Interest Policy
MSLS requires that any person that works with MSLS to develop or conduct training in any capacity must divulge their interests in any products, instruments, devices, or materials included in their training. MSLS has no financial interest or related personal interest or bias in any business whose products or services