Automating Science: Robotics and AI in the Research Laboratory

What it is about

In this module you will learn how AI methods and robotic technologies make research workplaces in the natural sciences faster, more flexible, scalable and reproducible. You will gain foundational knowledge of physical robotic solutions (e.g., sample and liquid handling) as well as computational methods (data analysis, workflow optimization, quality control) and you will learn how to transform traditional laboratory processes into automated workflows.

What you will be able to do

Improved understanding of why and how automation optimizes laboratory research
Recognizing the critical steps in the transition to automated workflows
Knowledge of relevant automation technologies (robotics, AI, software solutions)
Theoretical knowledge on designing efficient, reproducible workflows
Best practices and insights from real implementations

What the module consists of

Theoretische Vorlesungen (in Präsenz)Vermittlung der Kernprinzipien intelligenter Laborautomation und autonomer Experimente
Industry Perspectives (in Präsenz oder virtuell)Einblicke und Praxisbeispiele von Gästen aus Forschung und Industrie
Studentische Präsentationen (in Präsenz)Präsentation und kritische Diskussion ausgewählter Forschungsarbeiten durch Studierendengruppen

Teaching method

VorlesungEinführung in Konzepte wie Robotikintegration, Flüssigkeitshandling, Datenkonnektivität, Workflow-Optimierung und Qualitätssicherung
GastvorträgePraxisnahe Einblicke und Lessons Learned von Expertinnen und Experten aus Forschung und Industrie
StudierendenpräsentationenVertiefung durch kritische Analyse und Vorstellung von Forschungspapieren; Übung in wissenschaftlicher Kommunikation

What you should already know

Grundkenntnisse in Robotik, Mechatronik, Regelungstechnik, Machine Learning und Programmierungrecommended
Interesse an und Grundkenntnisse in Naturwissenschaftenrecommended

Assessment

Written examGroup workOral exam

The assessment consists of a graded presentation in a two-person team. Each team presents two research papers; the presentation of both papers lasts 30 minutes, followed by a 15-minute Q&A session with instructors and fellow students. Expected are the selection of suitable papers, critical analysis, technical accuracy and clear oral and visual communication.

Reading list

Nature - Can robotic lab assistants speed up your work?
IEEE - Core Processes in Intelligent Robotic Lab Assistants: Flexible Liquid Handling
Science Robotics - Accelerating discovery in natural science laboratories with AI and robotics: Perspectives and challenges
Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology - Automation in the Life Science Research Laboratory

Dates

SeminarAutomating Science: Robotics and AI in the Research Laboratory

Tue14:00–15:30
Ort/Zeit nicht bekannt
15× · 13.10.–02.02.
- 13.10.
- 20.10.
- 27.10.
- 03.11.
- 10.11.
- 17.11.
- 24.11.
- 01.12.
- 08.12.
- 15.12.
- 22.12.
- 12.01.
- 19.01.
- 26.01.
- 02.02.

LectureAutomating Science: Robotics and AI in the Research Laboratory

Tue14:00–15:30
Ort/Zeit nicht bekannt
15× · 13.10.–02.02.
- 13.10.
- 20.10.
- 27.10.
- 03.11.
- 10.11.
- 17.11.
- 24.11.
- 01.12.
- 08.12.
- 15.12.
- 22.12.
- 12.01.
- 19.01.
- 26.01.
- 02.02.

From the current semester, not binding.

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