Biobanks support pharmaceutical research by storing and managing biological samples, including blood, tissue, and cell lines, across early-stage compound screening and lead optimization.
As collections grow from thousands to millions of samples, sample processing must preserve sample integrity, improve processing efficiency, and maintain accurate records for every specimen from receipt through long-term storage.
Implementing Automation in Biobank Sample Processing
Manual workflows that rely on multiple handoffs, spreadsheets, and paper records increase risk for missed barcodes, mislabeled tubes, and inconsistent storage conditions. Biobank automation integrates labeling, aliquoting, and sample movement into a consistent pipeline, with each sample digitally tracked in real time and linked to its processing history and storage conditions.
What is a Drug Discovery Biobank?
A drug discovery biobank is a specialized biobank that supports drug discovery by connecting biological samples to research workflows that assess how compounds behave in human biology. Well-characterized collections and reliable tracking systems support consistent, reproducible data across research phases.
Rethinking the Biobank Workflow
Automation can reduce manual movement between stations by unifying intake, barcoding, aliquoting, and storage within a controlled process. Automated sample storage and robotic platforms improve workflow consistency and support the maintenance of controlled storage conditions.
Robotic Sample Handling That Scales with Your Research
High-throughput processing often involves repetitive steps, including pipetting, labeling, logging, transferring plasma, dispensing reagents, and preparing plates. Automation systems, such as the Microlab STAR, support high daily sample volumes through standardized barcode scanning and protocol execution.
Sample Traceability Without Compromise
Traceability depends on recording each touchpoint, including receipt, handling, storage, and retrieval. Automation enables a comprehensive, real-time view of sample movement. Integration with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) supports access to records for researchers, lab managers, and auditors.
Maintaining Quality Through Automated Sample Storage
Automated -80°C storage systems, such as Hamilton BiOS, reduce the need to manually open freezers or handle cryotube boxes during retrieval. Samples remain under tightly controlled storage conditions and are protected from unnecessary freeze-thaw cycles.
Storage and Retrieval Systems That Grow with Your Lab
As collections expand, tracking a single sample becomes tracking a million. Modular storage and retrieval systems, such as the Verso Q Series, can scale by adding modules over time.
Read more about this in the Hamilton Knowledge Center article about how biobanks support pharmaceutical research, then connect with Hamilton to discuss biobank workflow requirements.
About the Author
Hamilton Storage, an affiliate entity of Hamilton Company, is a global leader in the design and manufacturing of automated storage systems for biological and compound samples. By safeguarding the integrity of even the most precious samples, our solutions and expert knowledge empower researchers to reach new heights of laboratory efficiency while remaining focused on life science research. Our sample storage solutions and consumables are designed for sample integrity, flexibility, and reliability for life science applications. Hamilton Storage continues to develop innovative technologies to fit market needs and be known as the sample care company for the life science industry.
