Future Labs Live Basel – Laboratory technology and digitalisation

Future Labs Live in Basel is a specialist conference with an accompanying exhibition that focuses on laboratory technology and digitalisation. The event is aimed at decision-makers from the pharmaceutical industry, biotechnology, chemistry and academic research. The focus is on how laboratories are evolving structurally and technologically to work more efficiently, in a more data-driven and networked manner. Basel is considered one of Europe's leading life science locations. International pharmaceutical companies, specialised service providers and renowned research institutions shape the environment. This industrial and scientific density forms the backdrop for Future Labs Live, which places current developments in laboratory operations in a strategic context.

Transformation of the laboratory: from analogue to digital

Laboratories are undergoing a fundamental change. Traditional paper-based documentation is increasingly being replaced by digital systems. Electronic laboratory journals, automated data collection and cloud-based platforms are changing the way researchers and technicians work. The discussion will focus on topics such as:

• Electronic laboratory notebooks (ELN)
• Laboratory information management systems (LIMS)
• Data integration and interface management
• Cybersecurity in research environments

Digitalisation means more than just introducing individual software solutions. The key is to integrate different systems into a consistent infrastructure. Future Labs Live highlights this interface issue and shows how data streams between devices, analysis platforms and enterprise systems can be connected.

Automation and robotics in laboratory technology

Another focus is on automation. Modern laboratory technology includes robot-assisted pipetting systems, high-throughput screening platforms and automated sample logistics. The aim is to increase reproducibility and minimise manual sources of error. Automated processes are accelerating the search for active substances, particularly in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. Standardised processes enable large amounts of data to be systematically evaluated. Future Labs Live provides an overview of current systems and discusses their integration into existing laboratory structures. Typical fields of technology are:

• Robotics for sample handling and assay development
• Automated analytical devices
• Modular laboratory platforms
• Sensors and real-time monitoring

The combination of automation and digitalisation creates the basis for data-driven research. Laboratories are evolving from isolated workplaces to networked units within global research networks.

Data analysis and artificial intelligence

With increasing digitalisation, the volume of data is growing exponentially. Genome data, screening results and process parameters require powerful analysis tools. Future Labs Live therefore also focuses on the role of artificial intelligence and machine learning in the laboratory. Algorithms support pattern recognition in complex data sets. In drug development, they help to identify potential candidates more quickly. In quality control, they can detect anomalies at an early stage. The event discusses both technological opportunities and challenges in handling sensitive research data. Data security and regulatory requirements are key aspects. Strict guidelines for documentation and traceability apply, especially in the pharmaceutical environment. Digitalisation must therefore be reconciled with compliance requirements.

Sustainability and efficiency in laboratory operations

In addition to technological innovation, resource efficiency is coming to the fore. Laboratories are among the most energy-intensive areas within research and production sites. Future Labs Live therefore addresses topics such as energy consumption, material use and sustainable infrastructure. Among other things, the following will be discussed:

• Energy-efficient cooling and ventilation systems
• Reduction of disposable materials
• Optimisation of processes to conserve resources
• Digital monitoring systems for energy consumption

The combination of sustainability and digitalisation shows that modern laboratory technology is aimed not only at improving performance, but also at long-term economic efficiency.

Basel as a location for networked research

With its strong life sciences industry, Basel offers ideal conditions for a conference dealing with the future of laboratory systems. International companies operate research centres here, while universities and institutes drive forward basic research. This proximity between academic and industrial research promotes exchange. Future Labs Live takes advantage of this location. Participants from Europe, North America and Asia encounter an environment that combines innovation and industrial implementation. The event is therefore not only a presentation platform for new technologies, but also a forum for strategic discussions about the future of the laboratory. Laboratory technology and digitalisation are fundamentally changing research and development. Automation, data integration and artificial intelligence are creating new opportunities, but also require organisational adjustments. Future Labs Live in Basel brings these topics together in a specialised format that combines technical innovation, regulatory requirements and operational practice.

Further information can be found on the organiser's website: www.terrapinn.com