Development of an AI-Powered Virtual Lab for Pharmaceutical Fermentation Education
Yanping Li1, Feng Li1, Weiwei Zhuo1, Xiaomeng Zhang1, Hongjie Wu2, Lihu Zhang1★★ Corresponding author
- 1Department of Pharmacy, Jiangsu Vocational College of Medicine, Yancheng, CHINA.
- 2Department of Electronic and Information Engineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, CHINA.
CORRESPONDENCE
Lihu Zhang
Department of Pharmacy, Jiangsu Vocational College of Medicine, Yancheng, CHINA.
Received: 27-04-2026; Revised: 09-06-2026; Accepted: 11-08-2026.
Volume 60, Issue 4 · pp. 1523–1531 · PUBLISHED 2026 · DOI: 10.5530/ijper.20262414
ABSTRACT
Aim/Background: This study aims to develop an AI-enhanced virtual lab framework. It addresses the high costs and operational risks of traditional biopharmaceutical fermentation engineering education. The proposed solution integrates virtual simulations, real-time parameter optimization, and adaptive learning tools to provide scalable vocational training. Materials and Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted with 100 participants, comparing an AI-powered virtual training group against a conventional training control group. The framework incorporated dynamic simulation models, AI-driven process optimization, and real-time performance feedback. Results: The AI group demonstrated significant improvements, including a 35.4% increase in product yield (88% vs. 65%) and a 57.3% reduction in fault resolution time (3.5) 3.5 n, and real-time performance. The framework reduced reliance on physical equipment while enhancing training efficiency through immersive simulations and real-time skill assessment. Conclusion: The AI-powered virtual lab effectively bridges the gap between technical education and industrial biomanufacturing demands, offering a cost-effective, scalable, and adaptive solution for vocational skill development in fermentation engineering.
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Li, Y., Li, F., Zhuo, W., Zhang, X., Wu, H., & Zhang, L. (2026). Development of an AI-Powered Virtual Lab for Pharmaceutical Fermentation Education. Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, 60(4), 1523–1531. https://doi.org/10.5530/ijper.20262414
