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Liquid handling and lab automation scripting and support

Services

Liquid Handling and Laboratory Automation Scripting

Making your robots dance. Whether it's a reconfiguration or redeployment of an existing instrument, programming up a new script, starting with a newly installed robot, or adapting your programs to accommodate the ever shifting supply chain challenges, we are here to help. We work primarily with the Tecan Fluent, Tecan Evo, and Hamilton STAR platforms, but also take on projects involving all major vendors including Beckman, PerkinElmer, Dynamic Devices, and Agilent.

Graphical User Interface (GUI) Designs

We make your lab automation approachable, and easy to use for your staff. Photos and step by step navigation reduce operator error.

Command-Line Scripting and Source Code Development

We write extensions to add new functionality beyond what is available directly in the vendor's software. Perhaps you need a VBScript, or a customized text file in a particular format. We can automate data reformatting as well, streamlining the processing of your .csv or Excel files.

On-site Support

We differentiate ourselves by being physically present. Sure, remote support is an option, but there's something to be said for being in front of the instrument, watching it run directly, and having the face-to-face customer communication. Our hands on approach leads to superior results and shorter times to first run.

Pre-purchase Planning

You want to do it right the first time. Lead times can be long, and avoidable errors at the planning stage can lead to costly delays. Do you want to solely rely on the sales rep, who may not actually know how to program the instrument? You need an opinion from an expert who takes a holistic view of your entire automation workcell, not just a single component.

Testing

You need expertise to stress test your system and put it through its paces before you go live. Rigorous testing throughout the scripting process eliminates many headaches and surprises!

Training

You are adding new staff and want to hit the ground running quickly, or you have purchased an upgrade that is altering your equipment in a new way. In either case, our on-site training can help you quickly familiarize your team with this equipment to maximize productivity.

Experience

Ph.D. in Bioengineering

2003 - 2007

Unique combination of software, hardware, and wet lab experience. Doctoral degree in bioengineering in joint program at UC Berkeley and UC San Francisco. Undergraduate degree in electrical engineering from the University of Southern California.

General Liquid Handling Automation

2013-2014

Programmed Eppendorf, Beckman FX/FXp, Caliper SciClone, and Hamilton Star robots for local reagent company as Senior Research Engineer. Also worked extensively with Hudson Robotics Solo liquid handler and PlateCrane instrument.

Tecan

2014-2021

Award-winning senior application scientist at Tecan, joining at time of Fluent launch. Programmed hundreds of robots in all application areas - next-generation sequencing (NGS), mass spec sample prep, bioprocessing and cell culture systems, as well as highly integrated systems. Skilled with advanced Visual Basic scripting and automated data reformatting. Later transitioned into sales and sales manager role.

Our Team

Mike Mueller

Founder, President

Jenny Mueller

Executive Vice President

Kelly Tracy

Sr. Director, Lab Automation Solutions