Articles, News & Events

It’s Thursday morning, and the director of R&D has a rush set of samples that need to be analyzed now (it’s always a rush). Do you have the materials on hand to do the work? Who’s your go-to supplier for fast delivery if something is in short supply? Is the equipment that will be used in good working condition and…

When environmental disasters strike, laboratories are among the first and most vital lines of defense. From chemical spills and oil leaks to train derailments and industrial accidents, environmental disaster response labs play a crucial role in assessing damage, guiding cleanup efforts, and protecting public health. These specialized labs operate at the intersection of emergency response and science, providing rapid, accurate…

Choosing the right Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) isn’t just about features—it’s about flexibility. When evaluating LIMS platforms, labs often face the decision between customization and configuration. While the terms sound similar, their implications for scalability, cost, and long-term success are significantly different. Understanding the distinction between LIMS customization vs configuration can help you make smarter decisions that align with…

Staffing shortages can be felt in a multitude of industries, and laboratories are not immune. In fact, the number of active laboratory professionals overall has decreased. Laboratory staff are the backbone of scientific research, and their expertise and experience are vital to ensuring accurate and reliable results. However, shortages in laboratory staff can significantly impact the efficiency, effectiveness, and quality…

Before the 1970s, hard rock mine operators could dig for profitable hard rock minerals like gold or copper before abandoning the mining location and moving onward to find other prospective lands. About 140,000 relics of these hard rock mines, including unprotected tunnels and toxic waste dumps, have been found in areas under the control of federal agencies. Remedies to address…

One question that might have crossed your mind as a consumer as you reach in the fridge towards that questionable half gallon of milk to accompany your freshly poured cereal bowl is, “do these dates really matter?” The same can be said for over-the-counter medications, pharmaceuticals, and numerous other consumer items. One common misinterpretation is determining if expiration dates refer…

During most back-to-school sales you can pick up a basic college-ruled composition notebook for $1.00, or maybe even $0.50 if you shop around. Those 8” x 10” paperboard-covered, 100-page pads of paper are great for third-grade math homework and work exceptionally well as a teenage girl’s diary. But paper notebooks should have no place in a modern laboratory environment. Yet…

Starting and operating a laboratory is a vast and challenging undertaking. While securing the funding for a new lab represents progress and positivity, some intricacies exist in purchasing, hiring, and performing daily operations that are crucial for success. More than just a depth of scientific understanding is needed to set up a lab to guarantee years of fruitful and efficient…

Women in science, particularly in lab management roles, are reshaping the landscape of research and innovation. Yet, their journey is often met with unique challenges. From navigating gender biases to overcoming systemic barriers in lab operations, female scientists bring resilience and expertise to the table while facing obstacles that can impede their success. This article delves into the challenges faced…

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that each year, food-borne illnesses sicken 48 million people (or 1 in 6), send 128,000 people to the hospital, and cause 3,000 fatalities in the United States alone.1 With these kinds of figures, it is evident that being ready for a recall or other potential catastrophe is crucial when a…