Live from SLAS2025, Emily Yamasaki, Ph.D., speaks with David Jennions, Ph.D., Senior Director of Platforms and Systems Development at Grail and SLAS board member. Jennions discusses his role at Grail, which involves overseeing the development and deployment of large-scale automation systems for clinical diagnostics, ensuring they are fit for purpose and operationally efficient. Later, the two discuss themes of integration, communication and collaboration in lab automation, particularly in the context of the Nexus Xp Pavilion at the conference. He also shares insights into the challenges of automating complex diagnostic assays, the role of AI and machine learning in data analysis, and his excitement about the innovations showcased at SLAS.
Key Learning Points
- Integration and Communication in Automation: The effectiveness of integration and communication between instruments, robots and data systems for improving operational efficiency.
- Sample Integrity and System Reliability: How clinical diagnostics and drug discovery compare in handling errors.
- AI and Machine Learning in Diagnostics: Why being cautionary when implementing AI and machine learning helps avoid bias and ensure verifiable outputs.
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About SLAS
SLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening) is an international professional society of academic, industry and government life sciences researchers and the developers and providers of laboratory automation technology. The SLAS mission is to bring together researchers in academia, industry and government to advance life sciences discovery and technology via education, knowledge exchange and global community building.
SLAS2026 International Conference & Exhibition
- February 7-11, 2026
- Boston, MA
SLAS Europe 2026 Conference and Exhibition
- 19-21 May 2026
- Vienna, Austria
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