Use this helpful guide to setting up your NEW Biotech lab!
We know that setting up a new Lab can be stressful and there can be many things to consider. Thats why we have put together this helpful guide for you to use!
1. Create a Budget and Plan
Establishing a new lab can be costly, so it’s essential to create a budget that outlines your expenses for equipment, reagents, consumables, and personnel. Develop a comprehensive plan that outlines your spending priorities and timelines for acquiring necessary resources. Don’t be afraid to use the resources within your trusted suppliers. Appleton Woods spend time and money training their experts – use them!
“I can help you with dimensions, power and utility requirements, airflows and all the things that your architect may not think of!”
-Lana, Equipment Sales Manager
2. Select an Ideal Location
Choose a location for your lab that provides adequate space, access to utilities (such as water, electricity, and gas), and meets safety regulations. Consider proximity to other research facilities, collaborators, and resources that may facilitate your work.
Space for storage is often the last thing on your mind when planning your lab, if you don’t have the room or it’s an after thought you can always lean on your supply partners to shoulder the burden of storing consumable and reagent items.
“Speak to me about your ordering needs, no order is too small. Whether it’s standard or standing order, call off order or you require bespoke delivery options, I am happy to help. With our warehouse at your disposal, Appleton Woods are here to assist with your storage needs at no extra cost to you.”
–Emma Marsden, Biotech Sales Specialist
3.Ensure Safety Compliance
Safety should be a top priority when setting up your lab. Familiarize yourself with safety protocols and regulations specific to your field of research. Install safety equipment such as fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and emergency showers, and ensure proper ventilation and waste disposal systems are in place.
Health and safety should be top of the list not just with fire and accidents but also with pipetting and RSI. Opportunities to automate your process not only avoid these injuries but also improve your efficiency and, if implemented correctly, reduce your long term costs.
“I can advise you on all things robotics and automation!”
-David, Automation Sales Specialist
4.Invest in Quality Equipment
Select high-quality laboratory equipment and instruments that are suitable for your research needs. Prioritize essential items such as microscopes, centrifuges, incubators, and pipettes, and invest in reliable brands known for their accuracy and durability.
“A cheap piece of equipment that lasts a year isn’t sustainable, that’s why Appleton Woods only work with the highest quality brands”
-Emily Mann, Equipment Sales Support
5.Organize Your Workspace Efficiently
Optimize your lab layout to maximize efficiency and workflow. Designate specific areas for different tasks, such as sample preparation, data analysis, and equipment storage, and ensure easy access to frequently used items.
6.Stock Up on Supplies
Maintain an inventory of essential lab supplies and consumables to avoid disruptions in your experiments. Keep track of reagent expiration dates, and regularly reorder items to prevent shortages. Consider establishing partnerships with suppliers to negotiate favourable pricing and delivery schedules.
Ordering can be difficult when its an add on to your day job and many new companies or labs don’t have a system in place. Let Appleton Woods take care of that with our Biotech Purchasing Program for Consumables or Reagents, arrange a call with Eliot or Emma!
7.Implement Good Laboratory Practices (GLP)
Adhere to established protocols and procedures to maintain consistency, accuracy, and reproducibility in your experiments. Document all experimental procedures, data, and results meticulously, and follow ethical guidelines for research involving human subjects or animals.
8.Train Your Team
If you have a team of researchers or technicians, provide comprehensive training on laboratory techniques, safety protocols, and equipment operation. Encourage open communication and collaboration to foster a supportive and productive work environment.
“There are many resources available to you for free provided by equipment, reagent and consumable suppliers. Talk to Appleton Woods about our free webinar series or if you are interested in something specific such as 3D Cell Culture”
-Paul, Business Development Manager
9.Stay Flexible and Adapt
As your research progresses, be prepared to adapt and modify your lab setup accordingly. Stay informed about advancements in your field, and be open to incorporating new technologies and methodologies into your research endeavors.
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