Linking Robotics and Synthetic Biology for automated experimentation and discovery - Prof Harrison Steel

We are pleased to confirm that Prof Harrison Steel will be presenting on Wednesday, May 27th 2026.

Title: Linking Robotics and Synthetic Biology for automated experimentation and discovery - Prof Harrison Steel

Abstract:

By designing biotechnologies that link robotics and biology it is possible to realise fundamentally new approaches to scientific study and engineering. Such approaches enable an experimental apparatus to dynamically interact with the biosystem under study, allowing collection of richer data, or engineering of complex, dynamic traits. For example, by adding feedback control to biological experiments – implemented through computer-cell interfaces – it is possible to dynamically control cell behaviours as they respond to changing environments. In turn, libraries of such cells can be characterised, screened, or selected for improved performance as desired for many engineering applications, such as biosensor development or decision making. In this talk we will present recent work developing novel robotic platforms that link engineered processes in bacteria to real time measurement, data analysis, and feedback control. These approaches can span scales, from single-cell manipulation using microscopy, light, and microfluidics, to feedback-control of population evolution at bioreactor scale. Emerging tools for directed evolution and gene circuit engineering are explored, as well as possible future applications of these technologies to create fully automated approaches to scientific discovery.

Microsoft Teams meeting Join: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/38467490938937?p=7ehAuuCFcoRUVhBEdQ

Meeting ID: 384 674 909 389 37

Passcode: pd3U63GN