Cost-Effective, AI-driven Automation Technology for Cell Culture Monitoring: Boosting Efficiency and Sustainability in Industrial Biomanufacturing and Streamlining Supply Chains

SAMASTAR Ltd is a biotech startup based in Edinburgh, developing cutting-edge automation technology for non-invasive culture monitoring in bioreactors. Our mission is to accelerate research breakthroughs and scale-up in bioprocessing. We aim to support the growing synthetic biology and bioprocessing ecosystem in Scotland and internationally by offering reliable, high-quality, and cost-effective automation solutions. These technologies enhance R&D efficiency, reduce lab plastic waste, and support sustainable processing of feedstocks, collectively contributing to carbon emissions reduction and the broader net-zero goal, boosting efficiency and sustainability in industrial biomanufacturing and streamlining supply chains.

Our project, supported by the Launchpad funding from Innovate UK, has significantly accelerated the development of our minimum viable product (MVP), which will soon be tested with end users. The core innovation is a non-invasive device for remote culture monitoring, eliminating the need for labour-intensive manual monitoring that wastes time and resources. The project focused on creating a novel enclosure mechanism and improving the sensitivity of the device electronics, incorporating enhanced analytical capabilities. This funding has brought our device closer to commercialisation, with user trials already in the pipeline.

We are actively seeking collaboration with both academia and industry for pilot studies and publications. We also welcome interest from potential mentors and investors. Anyone interested is welcomed to contact our CEO and founder, Dr. Asma Abdullah, via LinkedIn.