Use of Artificial Intelligence in Scientific Lab

Use of Artificial Intelligence in Scientific Lab
5 min read
19 October 2022

Artificial Intelligence is making its presence widely known in many areas. From doorstep safe delivery to working as humans. This technology has enabled machines and computers to think, act and continuously upgrade themselves. 

Even though it has several downsides, AI is making headlines due to its ability to help us create a safer future. As a result, its use in scientific labs alongside lab instruments is getting popular. But how AI is used in scientific labs or aids scientific research may be a reason for your curiosity. You will find all your answers here.

How AI Works?

Before you dive into AI’s participation in a research lab, learn how it works. AI is the application of machine learning, so the machine learns while performing its duties and upgrades itself. A machine is programmed in such a way that it takes instructions, performs its duties, and stores knowledge for further applications. 

How Is AI Used in Scientific Labs?

A scientific lab involves researchers, state-of-the-art lab instruments, and experts to work around them and research new developments. The shortage of lab technicians and staff has compelled scientists to consider AI’s involvement in lab work. However, there are a few areas where this technology is already proving its worth, which is mentioned here.

Designing Solutions

AI needs a problem to think about, and there are several ones in the medical field. AI can see further than scientists can. They are better at designing and imagining solutions. Queen’s University in Belfast is a pioneer in using Ai in scientific labs. They have collaborated with manufacturing units to progress on this path. Scientists believe that AI-aided machines can detect problems and design customized patient solutions.

Robot Chemists

AI can help complete redundant lab tasks, especially creating chemicals after thousands of samples. Different scientists across the world have created various types of robot chemists. Some robot chemists move around the labs on one or two legs and perform repetitive tasks, while others maintain huge data and extract databases from research papers to arrive at new solutions. These robot chemists are changing how labs usually work.

Genomic Research

Genomic research studies a person’s DNA or protein structure and their interaction with each other. Their interactions sometimes cause abnormal protein mutants, which cause severe diseases. Genomic research aids in curating solutions for deadly diseases like cancer.

Looking for thousands of genetic variations consumes lots of time, but AI is emerging as a powerful tool for genomic research. It can create various protein structures using the available data more quicker than the existing technologies. They predict the results of these protein structures on the human body and help identify problems and then generate probable solutions. By simplifying genomic research, they offer the opportunity to create customized drugs to fight the disease.

Handling The Workflow

Scientific labs deal with numerous samples daily. It requires a lot of handling both before and after collection. Prioritizing, sorting, and sending them is a repetitive task that takes a lot of time. AI-aided robots are faster and more accurate than human staff. Automation is bringing change and making operations error-proof.

Is AI Fit for Scientific Labs?

Ai is not a perfect solution for scientific labs for now, but it is slowly progressing. Its applications in the labs are tested continuously, and its viability is checked. However, they are not as proficient in handling workflows in labs yet, and though lab staff is not replaceable anytime soon, AI-assisted robots are making their presence felt in scientific labs. 

The areas discussed above are only a few where AI is used. Apart from these, robots are being used in various departments, but their usefulness as working robots is still in question. The software ingrained in them has lent them capabilities, but human supervision is still needed. As a result, scientists are working on their capabilities to make them more robust and efficient.

They are becoming more common in labs, and you can also think about it. If you are short on staff or technology is your best friend, AI can prove to be efficient. 

Final Words

Not every lab is the same; thus, you need to see closely why your lab needs AI assistance. AI implementation needs AI education too. Implementing and maintaining it is crucial for proper functioning. The AI area of operation is still a new one, but its reach is far-fetching. It is a future technology, and its implementation might seem too soon, but it is the future, and embracing it now is only wise.

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Phil Parker 2
Biotechnical Services Inc. (BTS) was established in 1989. Our mission is to provide ongoing quality service and support to sustain innovation in biotechnology a...
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