Article

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

  1. 1Department of Pharmacy, Jiangsu Vocational College of Medicine, Yancheng, CHINA.
  2. 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.

zlh800927@163.com

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

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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