Life Sciences R&D Tax Credits: What Qualifies and Where Are Companies Leaving Value on the Table?

In the first episode of the Healthcare & Life Sciences Podcast, hosts Adam Hunter, Assurance Services Partner, and Carolyn Smith Driscoll, Tax Credits & Incentives Advisory, will explore the many ways research and development (R&D) tax credits impact the life sciences.

Together, they discuss what qualifies as R&D, where organizations commonly miss opportunities, and how proper documentation can help maximize credits while reducing audit risk.

Tune in to learn more about:

  • Understanding the fundamentals of R&D tax credits for life sciences companies.
  • Identifying qualifying activities across pharmaceuticals, biotech, medical devices, and diagnostics.
  • Navigating clinical trial and research-related credit opportunities.
  • Recognizing often-overlooked opportunities in process development and manufacturing scale-up.
  • Strengthening documentation to support claims and prepare for potential audits.  

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Carolyn Smith Driscoll Headshot

Carolyn Smith Driscoll

Tax Credits & Incentives Advisory

Director, Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC

Adam Hunter Headshot

Adam Hunter

Assurance Services

Partner, Cherry Bekaert LLP
Partner, Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC

Past Episodes

Podcast Healthcare and Life Science

Podcast

September 25, 2026

31:10

Speakers: Adam Hunter, Carolyn Smith Driscoll

Learn how life sciences R&D tax credits apply to digital health, AI and SaMD, plus key pitfalls, qualifying costs, documentation and tax changes.

Technology Podcast thumbnail

Podcast

September 22, 2026

14:47

Speakers: Vivian Kohrs, Daniel Wheadon

Learn how technology R&D tax credits work, what activities qualify, which costs are eligible, and how technology companies can maximize tax benefits.

Cherry Bekaert Tax Podcast thumbnail

Podcast

August 17, 2026

32:25

Speakers: Stephen Bell, Cynthia Plummer

Learn why property tax audits are increasing, common audit triggers, key reporting risks and practical steps to improve property tax compliance.