Automation, Robotics & the Connected Laboratory

The growing complexity of scientific research, coupled with the demand for faster, more reliable results, has made the need for interconnected laboratories more urgent than ever. Modern labs are no longer isolated environments – they are ecosystems where instruments, data, and personnel must work in harmony to accelerate innovation. Digitalization and AI-driven tools are playing a pivotal role in transforming these labs, enabling seamless integration of equipment, automation of workflows, and real-time insights into operations. By embracing these technologies, laboratories can enhance productivity, reduce errors, and focus more on the science, creating a future where efficiency and discovery go hand in hand. In this article, Tecan experts answer the question: How can digitalization enable a future-focused lab?

The Molecular Laboratories at London's Natural History Museum are at the forefront of scientific innovation in molecular biology. By integrating advanced automation and robotics, these labs are pushing the boundaries of research and analyzing the genetic makeup of ancient species and modern ecosystems. Senior Automation Specialist and Molecular Biologist Yuen Ting Chan and Senior Molecular Biologist and Robotics Specialist Dr. Piotr Cuber shed light on their groundbreaking work, highlighting their interdisciplinary approaches, bespoke sequencing services, and the unique challenges associated with working with historical and limited samples.

In microbiological research, accurate and efficient measurement of cell concentration and viability is crucial. Traditional methods, while effective, often fall short in speed and precision. These limitations can delay crucial research, particularly in the study of antibiotic resistance, where rapid and accurate data is essential for tracking bacterial growth, understanding resistance mechanisms, and developing new treatments. Professor Taeok Bae at Indiana University School of Medicine-Northwest shares insight into the benefits of automated cell counting for bacterial research and its impact on our understanding of antibiotic resistance.