The Future of Lab Automation: Insights from Bernd Gleixner of Bruker Biospin
In a rapidly evolving landscape, lab automation emerges as a pivotal player in scientific research and development. Recently, News Medical had an engaging conversation with Bernd Gleixner, Division President for Automation at Bruker Biospin, who shared valuable perspectives on the future of lab automation and the challenges that come with implementing intelligent systems in laboratories.
Introducing Chemspeed’s Role in Laboratory Automation
Chemspeed, established 27 years ago by former Russian employees, started in a modest garage near Basel. As the company grew, it became a significant player in lab automation, ultimately being acquired by Bruker last year. With this acquisition, Chemspeed has enhanced its capabilities in automation and digitalization, setting the stage for strategic growth under Bruker’s umbrella.
Chemspeed specializes in providing automation solutions tailored for chemists, emphasizing the need for high-quality data available around the clock using advanced robotics and analytical tools. This wealth of data is crucial for accelerating drug discovery efforts and identifying suitable molecules.
Envisioning Advancements in Laboratory Automation
As Chemspeed’s managing director, Gleixner envisions a future where automated systems seamlessly collect quality data from various sources, from instrumentation to AI-driven algorithms. He recognizes that the biggest challenge lies in improving machine-to-machine interactions while minimizing complexity in the interfaces.
In response to the increasing shift towards end-to-end digital workflows, Chemspeed plans to leverage advancements in technology to build modern, modular, and scalable automation platforms. These platforms can accommodate hybrid setups that combine manual and automated processes, promoting a cohesive transition towards a more automated future.
Integrating Automation with Analytical Instrumentation
With Bruker’s recently automated benchtop NMR systems, the potential integration with Chemspeed’s automation solutions is substantial. Gleixner highlights that these benchtop systems, known for their simplicity in installation and low maintenance, are ideal candidates for automation.
By merging benchtop setups with robotic systems, including synthesis capabilities, researchers can generate valuable data that feed back into AI systems. This synergy of technology helps streamline experimental planning and enhance efficiency by connecting multiple analytical methods, such as NMR and Raman spectroscopy.
Addressing Industry Needs with the Bruker Package
One of the main advantages of the Bruker package is the peace of mind it offers clients. In a landscape where scientists often grapple with integrating disparate tools, the ease of using a pre-qualified system that includes robotics and analytics is invaluable.
Gleixner emphasizes that acquiring high-quality data doesn’t have to be time-consuming. With Bruker’s robust instrumentation and minimal interface hurdles, labs can focus more on their scientific goals rather than technological complications, leading to more effective and efficient experimental outcomes.
Navigating Challenges in Automation Implementation
The journey to automation is fraught with challenges. Gleixner identifies four key questions researchers should consider before embarking on this path.
- Purpose of Investment: Understanding why automation is necessary should always be rooted in enhancing scientific inquiry.
- Change Management: Transitioning from manual to automated systems requires careful management of human resources to ensure successful implementation.
- Impact on the Organization: Automation may lead to the redundancy of certain roles while creating new opportunities in programming and maintenance that necessitate training.
- IT Ecosystem Considerations: Organizations often deal with legacy systems that require thoughtful integration into new automated frameworks.
Addressing these questions helps teams strategize their approach to successful automation.
Supporting Sustainability through Automation
At Chemspeed, sustainability is a core focus. The company is committed to supporting green chemistry initiatives, and many of its clients are working towards sustainable practices. A key tenet of this effort is material efficiency, encompassing reduced resource usage through smarter experiment planning.
Additionally, Chemspeed promotes chemical processes that require less material, such as mechanochemistry, which can stimulate reactions through mechanical force. This innovative approach is essential in areas like photovoltaic and hydrogen research, emphasizing the importance of sustainable lab practices.
The Role of AI in the Future of Laboratory Workflows
Gone are the days when experiments relied solely on manual design. Chemspeed’s systems already incorporate AI-driven workflows that enhance speed and accuracy by minimizing manual input.
Gleixner points out that while AI plays a significant role in lab automation, human expertise remains crucial. Chemspeed focuses on leveraging technology to expedite research without losing the essence of scientific inquiry.
Looking Ahead: Chemspeed’s Vision in Lab Automation
As they look towards the future, Chemspeed aims to enhance the potential of automation within Bruker’s ecosystem. They foresee a future filled with integrated DMTA (design, make, test, analyze) setups that drive scientific advancements.
Engaging clients on what modern labs should look like is also a vital aspect of Chemspeed’s mission. Automation will no longer be a standalone purchase; instead, it will focus on delivering meaningful impact within the scientific community.
Through its partnership with Bruker, Chemspeed is forging ahead as a leader in the lab automation space, committed to advancing technology while ensuring that science remains at the forefront of innovation.