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
Donkey Work No More | Streamlining Lab Automation with Lab Donkey (Sponsored by United Robotics Group)
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In this episode, Emily Yamasaki, Ph.D., speaks with Lab Donkey Director Safwan Hak at SLAS2025 in San Diego. Safwan shares his extensive background in software development and how his newfound passion for lab automation led to the creation of Lab Donkey, a software platform designed to streamline lab automation processes. Originating from the British term "donkey work," Lab Donkey's mission is to streamline tedious manual lab tasks with its automation software. Safwan highlights the platform's focus on quick integration, ease of use, and collaboration with industry experts.
Key Learning points
- Lab Automation Challenges: How Lab automation software can reduce repetitive, time-consuming tasks.
- Collaboration and Expertise: The importance of industry collaboration in leveraging different experiences to create effective solutions.
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 and the developers and providers of laboratory automation technolo
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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