Opentrons Unveils Protocol Library and GenAI Tools to Accelerate Lab Automation and Scale Scientific Research

By Business Wire On Feb 2, 2024

The new no-code protocol library and AI-powered protocol generation tools will empower scientists with automated, easy-to-use workflows for genomics, proteomics, cell biology, and synthetic biology

Opentrons Labworks, Inc., a leader in lab automation and makers of accessible lab robotics, announced the launch of its new protocol library, offering plug-and-play protocols for all Opentrons robots, including the Opentrons Flex. Opentrons is building a first-of-its-kind ecosystem for simplifying and scaling lab automation, which comprises the protocol library along with generative AI tools for protocol development, coupled with stringent wet- and dry-lab verification processes. The aim is to create the largest open-access set of robust liquid-handling automation protocols to streamline research across genomics, proteomics, cell biology, and synthetic biology.

“Our objective is to eliminate the hands-on, laborious tasks in the lab with easy-to-use software so that researchers can place more focus on scientific breakthroughs, rather than spending time at the bench with manual, time-consuming activities”

Using the latest highly modular robotics system, the Opentrons Flex, scientists will be able to leverage a comprehensive database of protocols and AI-powered protocol generation tools that can enhance the efficiency of research, allowing scientists to overcome manual limitations and concentrate on discovery. This makes complex research more accessible, promoting a collaborative and knowledge-driven scientific community.

“Our objective is to eliminate the hands-on, laborious tasks in the lab with easy-to-use software so that researchers can place more focus on scientific breakthroughs, rather than spending time at the bench with manual, time-consuming activities,” said Jonathan Brennan-Badal, CEO of Opentrons. “With hundreds of protocols already developed by our community of users and internal scientific team, the easily accessible protocol library and our latest innovation in generative-AI protocol development tools both mark a major milestone for scientists. Our approach will help scientists unravel the complexities of the genome and accurately capture large-scale genetic variations in disease, especially in areas where there is a growing need for accessible automation solutions, such as sample prep for long-read and single-cell sequencing.”

Along with Opentrons’ open-access protocol library, Opentrons has created an AI-powered protocol generation tool that leverages large language models to allow users to create novel workflows for Opentrons robots. This endeavor aligns with other prominent initiatives led by researchers at Carnegie Mellon University and MIT, aiming to create AI-driven lab assistants capable of designing and executing automated experiments utilizing Opentrons robots.

The new protocol library will be on display at the Opentrons booth and showcased at an Exhibitor Tutorial at the SLAS2024 International Conference and Exhibition from February 3-7, 2024 at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center.

Exhibitor Tutorial: No python, no problem! New and improved protocol design options for Opentrons robots
Date and Time: Tuesday, February 6, 2024, 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm EST
Room/Location: 103

Discover Opentrons’ generative AI-powered automated protocol creation system at SLAS2024 in a Solutions Spotlight talk.

Solutions Spotlight: Generative AI-powered programming for Opentrons robots
Date and Time: Monday, February 5, 2024, 12:30 pm – 12:50 pm EST
Room/Location: Solutions Spotlight Theater (Exhibition 1290)

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