by Anne Arnold, Ph.D., Materials Chemist, Carnegie Mellon University, Technical Writer
Automated liquid handling systems have become essential for laboratories seeking speed, precision and adaptability in their workflows. These systems streamline a variety of tasks from drug discovery to genomics by minimizing hands-on time and reducing potential errors.
However, automated liquid handlers can be costly and come with a relatively large learning curve for end-users, some even requiring specialists dedicated to the instrument. Thus, it’s imperative to consider the entirety of your workflow and how automating even a small part of it can impact process.
“It is crucial to understand if a liquid handling system can automate your application, or at least the portion of your application that is most burdensome and prone to error, as well as how difficult it would be to automate that process,” says Rebecca Lampert, product marketing manager at BrandTech Scientific. “Be sure to address laboratory needs versus wants, and select an instrument that truly addresses the pain points you hope to solve with automation.”
Plan for the long-term
Thinking only about what your lab needs at the moment can be short-sighted when it comes to automation. Instead, try to consider how your lab might grow or change over the next handful of years.
“It’s critical that your system will evolve with you so you can avoid making the same decisions again in the near future,” said James Atwood, PhD, General Manager Robotics, Opentrons Labworks, Inc. “Increasing flexibility means future proofing your automation solutions to account for the rapid pace of scientific discovery and research, especially when it comes to AI and its integration into experimental processes. Automation absolutely needs to be future-compatible with AI tools.”
This flexibility should be applicable all across the liquid handling system—from application to volume range, dispensing, software and even footprint. For example, would your lab benefit from a benchtop liquid handler, or do you need one that fits in a biosafety cabinet such as NuAire's LabGard NU-L121? In today’s busy labs, most liquid handling instruments are now multi-user, further increasing the demand for flexibility.
“One way to future-proof automated liquid handling investment is to ensure that the liquid handler can accommodate a range of applications, even if users are only looking to automate one specific application,” said Lampert.
Paulina Kocjan, Regional Marketing Manager Automation, Liquid Handling, Consumables at Eppendorf, agrees.
“Flexibility is key as you need systems that can handle both routine tasks and more complex protocols, while accommodating a variety of consumables like plates and tubes,” she said.
Luckily, liquid handling systems can usually be easily reconfigured repurposing and upgrading elements as needs and demands changes. Still, this is more difficult to do if flexibility is not built into the system at the start.
Key purchasing considerations and features
Automation level: fully automated vs. semi-automated
The choice between automated and semi-automated systems should be based on lab throughput needs, workflow complexity, and budget. Fully automated systems are ideal for continuous, high-volume processes, as they offer hands-free operation and consistent precision. Semi-automated systems, on the other hand, offer greater manual control and can be ideal for labs with smaller budgets or lower throughput demands. These systems are particularly suited for routine but less complex tasks, providing some customization while automating repetitive steps.
Volume range and precision
The volume range a system can handle affects its suitability for different applications. Systems capable of handling ultra-low volumes, from nanoliters, excel in applications such as HTS or synthetic biology, where precise, minimal reagent usage is critical. Systems with a broader range, accommodating microliter to milliliter transfers, provide versatility for a wider array of workflows, such as larger-volume sample prep in clinical and environmental labs. Precision is measured by the system’s coefficient of variation (% CV); lower % CV values ensure high reproducibility across a range of volumes, crucial for consistent data quality in both small- and large-scale experiments.
Deck capacity and layout
Deck capacity—how many plates, reagents, or sample types the system can handle in a single run—affects throughput and flexibility. Larger decks can accommodate multiple labware types and allow for simultaneous operations, like sample preparation and assay assembly. For high-throughput labs, this means less frequent reloading and uninterrupted workflows. Smaller or focused labs may benefit from compact systems, which save space while maintaining essential functionality.
Compatibility with labware and assays
System compatibility with labware, including microplates, deep well plates, and vials, ensures adaptability across applications. Systems with modular pipetting heads or adjustable tip types facilitate easy transitions between different labware types without requiring significant hardware modifications. This versatility supports a broad array of applications, from PCR to cell-based assays, maximizing the system's usability and cost-effectiveness.
Software and user interface
The system’s software has a direct impact on ease of use, training time, and data quality. User-friendly software with drag-and-drop programming and pre-configured protocols simplifies setup, even for novice users. Advanced software features, such as real-time monitoring, error detection, and sample tracking, enhance data integrity and workflow efficiency. Compatibility with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and other lab equipment supports integrated automation, which is invaluable for high-throughput and regulated environments.
An additional consideration here that was not part of the purchasing process even last year is AI. Automation and AI go hand-in-hand, with both becoming an increasing part of daily life, including inside the lab.
“AI is something anyone looking at automated liquid handling should consider carefully because of how fundamental it is at this frenetic time of integration,” said Atwood. “Two things come to mind: look for automated solutions with software written in common coding languages (like Python) instead of obscure or proprietary languages, and choose automation that has open, well-documented APIs that can be easily understood by LLMs.”
By evaluating these key factors, labs can select a liquid handling system tailored to their unique workflow needs, enhancing productivity and data accuracy while ensuring flexibility for future growth.
About the Author: Anne Arnold is a devoted Ph.D. materials chemist at Carnegie Mellon University, specializing in innovative materials for applications like tissue regeneration, 3D printing, sensors, and environmental remediation. With expertise in polymers, nanomaterials, and composites, she tackles complex challenges with creative solutions. Outside of research, Anne finds inspiration in creating art, bridging her passion for science with creativity.