New Matter: Inside the Minds of SLAS Scientists
The official Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening (SLAS) podcast explores advances in automation, cellular imaging, big data and what's coming in the spaces between traditional scientific disciplines. Guests often include members of SLAS along with innovators, leading experts and other members of the global scientific community to highlight technology and even career stories. Episodes are released every week and subscribe to New Matter - available on all podcast players.
New Matter: Inside the Minds of SLAS Scientists
Democratizing Laboratory Robotics with Jon Brennan-Badal of Opentrons (Sponsored by United Robotics Group)
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In this episode, SLAS Scientific Director Lesley Mathews, Ph.D., speaks with returning guest Opentrons CEO Jon Brennan-Badal to discuss their mission to democratize laboratory robotics. The conversation delves into the integration of AI to enhance automation efficiency, explores vendor equipment compatibility via the Opentrons Automation Marketplace, and highlights the platform’s open-source adaptability for diverse scientific applications.
Key Learning Points:
- Methods of providing accessibility in laboratory robotics
- How AI is enhancing automation to make advanced automation tools easier to use
- The importance of offering education and training in lab automation
Like this episode?
Listen to our first episode with Jon Brennan-Badal for more open-source discussion.
Thank you to our Sponsor
United Robotics Group is a leader in delivering innovative robotic solutions that empower industries to achieve more. Combining cutting-edge technology with human-centric design, we specialize in creating advanced automation tools that streamline processes, enhance precision, and drive efficiency across sectors such as life sciences, manufacturing, healthcare, and more.
Guided by a commitment to innovation and quality, we design solutions that not only address today’s challenges but also pave the way for tomorrow’s possibilities. At United Robotics Group, we’re not just building robots—we’re building partnerships that transform industries and improve lives.
Learn more at https://unitedrobotics.group/en-us.
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About SLAS
SLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening) is an international professional society of academic, industry and government life sciences researchers
Upcoming Events:
SLAS Europe 2026 Conference and Exhibition (19-21 May 2026 | Vienna, Austria)
SLAS Meet-Ups
- Basel, Switzerland (30 April 2026)
- Chicago, Illinois (June 18, 2026)
- Leiden, Netherlands (10 September 2026)
- Tübingen, Germany (20 October 2026)
SLAS 2026 Sample Management Symposium (October 21-22, 2026 | South San Francisco, California)
SLAS2027 International Conference & Exhibition (January 30 - February 3, 2027 | San Diego, California)
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