Explore the Agenda
8:00 am Morning Coffee & Check-in
8:55 am Chair’s Opening Remarks
Automation, AI & Emerging Technologies, Unlocking Efficiency & Insight in Lab Operations
9:00 am Identifying Workflows Ready for Automation to Streamline Lab Operations
- Understand how to assess operational processes for automation potential and efficiency gains
- Learn techniques to reduce repetitive manual tasks without disrupting scientific workflows
- Gain practical tools to plan, pilot, and scale automation initiatives across multiple sites
9:30 am Session Reserved for Calira
9:40 am Scaling Laboratory Automation Through Modular Design to Future-Proof Growing R&D Teams
- Practical strategies for scaling lab automation as organizations grow without disrupting active research
- Modular automation approaches to maintain flexibility and adapt workflows as scientific priorities evolve
- Drive successful adoption by partnering with bench scientists to optimize processes before and after automation implementation
10:10 am Morning Break & Networking
11:00 am Harnessing AI in Lab Operations to Solve Real-World Challenges
- Explore practical AI applications that are already delivering value in lab operations, from predictive maintenance to workflow optimisation
- Learn strategies for overcoming siloed data systems and integrating AI tools into existing operational environments
- Gain insight into evaluating which processes are ready for AI and how to prioritise implementation for maximum impact
11:30 am Bridging the Gap Between Scientists & Lab Operations to Build Trust, Compliance, & Shared Ownership to Secure Buy-In Without Slowing Progress
- Examine common sources of friction between scientists and lab ops teams and how to proactively address them
- Learn effective approaches for educating scientists on operational constraints, safety, and compliance requirements
- Gain communication strategies that drive behavioural change without slowing scientific progress
Asset Management & Centralization, Driving Efficiency, Visibility, & Scientist Engagement at Scale
12:00 pm Optimizing Equipment Lifespan & Utilization Through Effective Life Cycle Management
- Explore methods to extend the productive lifespan of critical lab equipment while reducing unplanned downtime
- Learn approaches for preventative maintenance, predictive analytics, and utilization tracking
- Understand how life cycle management contributes to cost savings, compliance, and uninterrupted scientific workflows
12:30 pm Lunch Break
1:30 pm Bridging the Gap: Practical Tools that Connect Lab Ops & Research Teams
- Implement practical tools such as QR codes and ticketing systems to streamline lab support requests
- Leverage integrated Lab Information Management System platforms to manage facilities requests, inventory, and asset tracking in one place
- Using these emerging tools to improve communication between lab ops and research teams to reduce lost requests and accelerate turnaround times
2:00 pm Driving Scientist Engagement & Buy-In for Inventory & Asset Management Systems
- Understand common barriers scientists face in adopting new systems and processes
- Learn communication and change-management strategies to improve compliance and adoption
- Gain techniques to align scientist priorities with operational goals, ensuring reliable data and efficient workflows
2:30 pm Managing Shutdowns, Decommissioning, & Equipment Rehoming to Minimize Risk & Maximize Sustainability
- Understand best practices for planning and executing lab shutdowns and decommissioning activities
- Learn how structured equipment rehoming can reduce waste, cost, and environmental impact
- Explore the EHS and sustainability benefits of proactive asset and end-of-life planning
3:00 pm Afternoon Break
Safety, Compliance & Sustainability, Driving Responsible Operations Under Budget Pressure
3:30 pm Panel Discussion: Spending With Intention: Strategic Decision-Making for Lab Ops & Facilities Leaders in 2026
- Explore how leaders prioritize spend to maximize operational impact while staying within budget constraints
- Learn strategies for aligning investments with scientific priorities, regulatory obligations, and long-term operational goals
- Gain insights from real-world case studies to make informed, intentional decisions in resource-constrained environments
4:00 pm Maintaining a High-Impact Safety Culture During Cost Cutting
- Understand how to preserve high safety standards and compliance during periods of budget reduction
- Learn practical approaches to reinforce safe behaviors and accountability across teams through implementing safety councils to discuss initiatives.
- Gain strategies to protect people, science, and institutional reputation without increasing costs
4:30 pm Leveraging Data to Strengthen Safety, Compliance, & Risk Management
- Learn how to leverage operational data to monitor incidents, training, and regulatory compliance
- Understand how analytics can proactively identify risks and prevent costly errors
- Gain tools to improve visibility, accountability, and continuous improvement across lab operations