ANALYTICAL & LABORATORY EQUIPMENT
the PKeye mobile operations monitor, are enabling true walk-away automation while using liquid handlers. Te PKeye monitor includes a set of cameras mounted on the instrument, in addition to cloud-based software that monitors the instrument status and logs files in real time. Any alert triggered during the process is passed up to the secure cloud-based website controlled by the lab manager and then passed down to the lab technician’s cell phone. Tis process allows the lab technician to remain away from the instrument while running and still get notified when manual intervention is needed.
INTEGRATED AUTOMATION However, automation can’t function in isolation. True automation in laboratory workflows requires seamless integration of associated software, reagents, consumables and the relevant instrumentation technology – integrated automation that connects multiple steps in the lab’s workflow, enables a reduction in manual workload and frees up time for the scientists to focus on research and innovation.
POST-PANDEMIC MINDSET In the post-pandemic era, rising healthcare costs and an increased focus on developing advanced medicines will continue to increase reliance on automation in drug discovery and development. However, some challenges need to be addressed
Removing humans from processes reduces errors and speeds up throughput
before we can fully embrace automation. Te fear of change and loss of control over the results remains a hurdle that first need to be considered before we get into the costs involved in setting up automated systems.
A mindset shift is essential for people to fully understand and adapt to automated tools and instruments. With this shift, we need to consider a number of factors, such as training, a reassurance that automation will not make the staff redundant but will only help repurpose their efforts towards much-needed areas
of research and innovation, and efficient protocols for query resolution. Tere also needs to be continuous communication around how the benefits vastly outweigh the risks in the form of a reduction in human-associated errors and increased efficiency.
COLLABORATION IS KEY Another aspect critical to automation is collaboration. Te concept of collaboration goes beyond merely offering automated services and tools but also requires growing with the evolution of a company or lab to better meet their needs. For instance, PerkinElmer acquired Oxford Immunotec, which plays a global role in fighting tuberculosis. Tis enabled the company to utilise PerkinElmer’s automation and commercial channel access to bring tuberculosis testing to more people around the world. We need to see more such collaborations to help us address the rising healthcare challenges. Automation and data management
make room for innovations, bringing life-saving therapies to people at a rapid rate, without compromising on quality or accuracy, and we are only just scratching the surface.
An Explorer G3 workstation – just one example of an automated lab system
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www.scientistlive.com
Carola Schmidt is general manager of automated robotic solutions at Revvity.
www.revvity.com
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