Helping labs to scale genomic testing.
Automata Labs enables automation of the library preparation protocol for genomic sequencing by integrating tried-and-tested lab instruments with robotic enabled automation.
Complete automated library preparation protocol solution for genomic sequencing
The challenge
As genomic sequencing drives increasing innovation in the life sciences, running tests at scale remains a key issue to address within genomic sequencing labs.
The need to run multiple preparation protocols concurrently has hampered automation efforts.
Staff challenges
Because of the nature of the job, staff can quickly become fatigued, disillusioned or bored, leading to a high turnover of workers.
Repetitive work
Manually carrying out repetitive tasks, like sample preparation or barcode scanning, means output is limited by working hours and workforce numbers.
Human error
Even with partial automation, manual labour in between steps carries the added risk of human error, reducing reproducibility and thereby limiting scaling opportunities.
Cost to scale
The cost of the manual labour and partial automation required to fulfill current lab tasks at current output levels, even before scaling, can leave little left over to fund expansion.
The solution
Automata Labs completely automates library preparation steps for next generation sequencing. By fully integrating lab equipment with robotic automation, Automata Labs can enable your NGS lab to run multiple protocols in parallel to achieve results at scale.
Staff enablement
With less reliance on skilled labour to complete repetitive tasks, staff are enabled to do more high-value analysis work.
Run in parallel
By running library preparation protocols in parallel, NGS labs are able to run multiple diagnostic sequences at scale.
Minimise mistakes
Reducing human touch points increases reliability of sample results, eliminating contamination and lowering chances for retesting.
Auditing
With the ability for timestamping, barcode scanning, and more, the ability for labs to centralise sample data collection and management can be realised.
Sample NGS library preparation protocol for Covid-19 sequencing
Pre PCR protocol
Compatible with automated liquid handlers like OpenTrons, FlowBot FlowOne and Agilent Bravo, Automata Labs' library preparation solution combines 3 modular pods for the pre PCR process
Automated consumables storage
A range of consumables, microplates, deep well plates and tip boxes are stored in this pod so they can be automatically loaded into the cells.
cDNA synthesis liquid handler & thermocycler
A liquid handler (e.g Agilent Bravo) loads lunascript into the extracted RNA. The robot then loads the microplate into a thermocycler and runs the RT program.
cDNA amplification prep
A liquid handler (e.g Agilent Bravo) adds RT mix to the Primermix.
Post-PCR Protocol
Automata Labs' library preparation solution combines 4 modular pods for the post PCR process for library sample preparation.
Automated consumables storage
A range of consumables, microplates, deep well plates and tip boxes are stored in this pod so they can be automatically loaded into the cells.
cDNA amplification thermocycler
A bank of 8 thermocyclers is available for the robot to load into to optimise throughput. The robot loads two microplates and the thermocycler runs the PCR program.
Rapid barcoding
The two plates are loaded onto a liquid handler (e.g Agilent Bravo) and the liquid handler adds the rapid barcodes from the RBK plate to a PCR plate. After this process one plate is loaded onto a thermocycler to run the RBK attachment program.
DNA Amplicon and Pooling Cleanup
Plate is loaded from PCR onto liquid handler for pooling/cleanup. Once the process is finished, the microplate is presented to the user to load flow cells for sequencing.
Automation for any lab
Our automated, modular workflow solutions can be adapted to meet specific lab requirements across diagnostics, drug discovery, microbiology, virology and genomics.
Some of our clients
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
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
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
