About us

Born from a world-leading research lab, Automata is transforming the way labs work with open, integrated automation. Our mission is to unlock the potential of labs and the potential of the people who work in them.

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Enabling the potential of automation

When two architects from Zaha Hadid’s research lab first approached robotics, their idea was to explore applications specific to architectural engineering.

But they soon discovered that modern automation wasn’t just unnecessarily complex – it was actively restricting innovation. And not just within their industry – within many others too. It was clear that robotic automation was a field where their combined experience in computational research and design could make a real difference.

Assembling a team of industry experts, Automata was founded, with a clear aim: to enable new opportunities for innovation with automation.

Unlocking the potential of labs

Automata’s focus narrowed on an industry where they felt their expertise could have the most impact: the life sciences.

Today, most lab automation tends to be defined by a series of very specialised benchtop instruments that are still reliant on human interaction. But Automata saw an opportunity for a new way of looking at automation in the life sciences: open, integrated automation.

That’s how we came to develop the world’s first fully automated lab bench, and its accompanying software. This enables labs to use staff and resources more effectively by ensuring total walkaway time and consistency, without compromising on valuable lab space.

Empowering scientists to change the world

Supercharging scientific discovery with automation

The scientists in today’s labs will one day change the world. Yet many spend up to 80% of their time conducting repetitive tasks. We believe that by removing these tasks, we can empower scientists to focus on the work that really matters.

Designing for real people and real spaces

Automation should provide true benefits today

Lab automation has typically been bulky, complex, and difficult to use, making it inaccessible for many labs and their workers. That’s why we believe in creating automation solutions that lab workers can adopt today, in their current lab space, with their current staff.

Adapting with you

Your lab will grow and evolve – so should your automation

We understand that your lab’s needs will change over time, and that you need lab automation that can support that. That’s why our solutions and approach to working with you always have your future front and centre.

The leadership team

Mostafa

CEO & COFOUNDER

Mostafa always has one eye on the future to see how Automata can empower human potential with automation – while keeping his sneakers as crispy as possible, of course.

Pete

CHIEF FINANCIAL & OPERATIONS OFFICER

With experience spanning global brands such as Skyscanner, Amazon, and Sony, Pete is Automata’s Chief Financial and Operations Officer. Day to day, you’ll find him using his keen eye to make sure our finances and operations are running smoothly.

Pantea

HEAD OF DESIGN

Pantea is passionate about problem discovery and designing solutions, skills she puts to practice in both her meticulously-organised garden, and at work, helping scientists simplify the lab environment with automation.

Sven

VP ENGINEERING

Sven captains the engineering department – and his own canal boat. He’s committed to solving the biggest challenges of accelerating automation across software & hardware.

Nick

VP OF PRODUCT & STRATEGY

Nick’s obsessed with research, and developing products that enable scientists to innovate in the lab space – a great resource for the weekly pub quiz!

Karian

HEAD OF PEOPLE

Karian leads our people group. She’s keenly focused on scaling the team, engagement, L&D, culture – and puppy operations. Yes that last part is correct.

Resources

NHS partners with Automata to automate testing facility

Discover how University Hospital Southampton (UHS) rapidly scaled up capacity to meet new high throughput targets

Read case study

Scaling diagnostic testing with lab automation

Efficiency in lab diagnostics is critical to ensuring the best possible patient outcomes. Here’s how to use automation to help you reach a better efficiency.

Read full case study

Using automation to improve your diagnostic efficiency

Efficiency in lab diagnostics is critical to ensuring the best possible patient outcomes. Here’s how to use automation to help you reach a better efficiency.

Read the full guide