Week 03 — Lab Automation

Opentrons OT‑2 in lab

This week focuses on lab automation using the Opentrons OT‑2. You’ll write Python to control the robot and create bio‑art patterns using fluorescent E. coli on black agar plates.

  • Info There was no live lecture this week per the source site. Check the Recitation and Lab sections for materials and recordings.
  • Warning Submit your code BEFORE your lab time. You’ll run your protocol on an OT‑2 during scheduled lab time. What to do Read the pre‑lab materials to understand the workflow and safety. Create your protocol in the provided Colab (Python) and test in simulation. Submit your completed protocol to your TA. Sign‑up for a robot time slot: Robot time slot form Submit your Colab block: Protocol submission form Post‑Lab Questions (Mandatory) Describe how you would use automation for your final project (pseudocode/scripts, fixtures or 3D‑printed holders, etc.). Find and briefly describe a paper that uses Opentrons or similar tools for a novel bio application.
  • Slides: Google Slides Recording: will be posted (per source).
  • Tip Program the Opentrons OT‑2 to deposit fluorescent E. coli and create bio‑art on black agar plates. Objective In this two‑day lab you’ll program the Opentrons OT‑2 to deposit fluorescent E. coli on black agar plates, creating glowing bio‑art under UV light. It’s a hands‑on intro to automation + creative biotech.
  • Lab Automation & Opentrons Opentrons Lab Automation Primer — overview primer and reading list. Notion Opentrons Art GUI — web app & links to API/Colab resources. opentrons-art.rcdonovan.com Opentrons Robotics (YouTube) — channel with OT‑2 primers and demos. YouTube