A MassRobotics Healthcare Robotics Working Group Webinar on Advances in Laboratory and Biopharma Automation
Automation is playing an increasingly important role in healthcare and laboratory environments, where precision and efficiency are critical. In a recent webinar hosted by the MassRobotics Healthcare Robotics Working Group, experts from Festo shared insights into the challenges and opportunities in laboratory automation, liquid handling, and bioprocessing technologies.
The session featured presentations from Johannes Linkbach, Head of Festo’s Research Hub in Boston; Ross Gallant, Industrial Segment Lead for Life Sciences; and Sid Gupta, Research Electrical Engineer at Festo USA. Their discussion explored emerging technologies supporting advancements in laboratory workflows, biopharma applications, and regenerative medicine.
Watch the full webinar here
A key theme throughout the discussion was the role of automation in improving laboratory efficiency and scalability. As research processes become more complex, the need for standardized, high-throughput solutions continues to grow. The conversation covered sample handling and diagnostics, liquid handling techniques, and innovations in bioprocessing, with a focus on how automation can help address key industry challenges.
One area of focus was liquid handling automation, where precision pipetting and dispensing technologies help reduce human error, contamination risks, and inefficiencies. The webinar also highlighted developments in cell and gene therapy manufacturing, where automation is being integrated into bioreactors and microfluidic platforms to support emerging medical and pharmaceutical research.
The discussion also touched on the importance of maintaining sterile environments when handling biological samples. One example presented was SupraMotion, a levitation-based technology designed for contact-free transport of materials in cleanroom settings. The ability to move biological samples without physical contact has potential applications in pharmaceutical production, diagnostics, and regenerative medicine.
The role of AI and robotics in healthcare automation was another focal point. As AI-powered systems become more adaptable, they offer new possibilities for real-time process optimization, quality control, and workflow automation. Panelists discussed how AI and machine learning are being explored to enhance robotic systems, particularly in areas where automation needs to be flexible and responsive to dynamic environments.
The session concluded with a discussion on the future of robotics in healthcare and life sciences. Panelists emphasized that automation is not only about improving efficiency but also about expanding access to new medical and research capabilities. As the industry continues to evolve, there is ongoing interest in collaborative research efforts, open-source automation tools, and cross-disciplinary partnerships to advance the field.
Key Topics Covered in the Webinar
The discussion covered a range of automation solutions and research developments, including:
🔹 Advancements in laboratory automation – Technologies supporting sample handling, in-vitro diagnostics (IVD), and point-of-care testing, with examples from recent healthcare applications.
🔹 Liquid handling and pipetting automation – The role of precision dispensing and AI-driven quality control in reducing contamination risks and improving workflow efficiency.
🔹 Automation in biopharma and regenerative medicine – The use of bioreactors and microfluidic technologies in fields such as cell and gene therapy and vaccine development.
🔹 Sterile transport solutions – An overview of SupraMotion, a contact-free levitation technology designed for sterile environments.
The Future of Automation in Healthcare Robotics
The session also explored the role of robotics and AI in healthcare automation, highlighting current challenges and areas for further research. Discussions focused on scalability, regulatory considerations, and new approaches to integrating automation in life sciences.
The MassRobotics Healthcare Robotics Working Group continues to provide a platform for discussions on automation, robotics, and AI in healthcare applications. To learn more about the working group or explore ways to engage, please reach out to MassRobotics.