UniteLabs develops a platform for automating and networking laboratory equipment. 90 percent of all lab devices come from different manufacturers and cannot easily communicate with one another. This lack of interoperability significantly hinders automation and the use of AI in research.
Robert Zechlin, co-founder and CEO of UniteLabs, explains:
“Many biotech companies want to use AI in their labs. But the biggest hurdle is that lab equipment cannot communicate with each other. With UniteLabs, we’re creating a common technical language for the laboratory of the future.”
The platform standardizes previously closed interfaces and makes them cloud-capable. This allows devices to be controlled more easily, data to be retrieved in real-time, and workflows to be automated. Research can thus be conducted more efficiently and in a networked manner. To date, the startup has developed 40 connectors that link laboratory equipment together.
Focus on liquid handling and platform expansion
The current focus is on liquid handling systems, a critical bottleneck in modern laboratories. These devices are used in biological and chemical experiments, including corona tests and DNA sequencing.
“Liquid handlers are the key to lab automation. They provide the ideal starting point to implement additional use cases with satisfied customers. In the long term, our platform will support a wide range of analytical devices such as chromatography and plate readers, robotic arms, and bioreactors. The value for our customers increases with each additional integration,”
says Zechlin.
UniteLabs aims to redefine automation of biotech research
UniteLabs was founded by Robert Zechlin, Lukas Bromig, and Julian Willand. The team brings together expertise in chemical engineering, information systems, and corporate strategy. The goal is to connect 90 devices with the platform by the end of the year. The fresh funding also contributes to this. The pre-seed round was led by NAP (formerly Cavalry Ventures). Push, Acurio Ventures, OMA Business Angels, and Lana Ventures also participated.
Claude Ritter, managing partner at NAP, emphasizes:
“Biotech labs are at a turning point today: while AI enables tremendous advances, most labs lack the technical foundation to realize this potential. Equipment speaks different languages, valuable data remains isolated. UniteLabs provides the urgently needed infrastructure to prepare labs for AI deployment.”
