Precision in the Lab: Safeguarding research with better monitoring

In the world of scientific discovery, laboratories are the front lines of progress. Whether it's studying how animals adapt to extreme high-altitude environments or developing groundbreaking pharmaceuticals, the integrity of research depends on one unwavering factor: precise lab conditions.

As Dr. Jonathan Velotta shared in his recent appearance on Hot Takes, maintaining stable temperatures is critical not only for the success of experiments but also for preserving the invaluable samples that fuel these breakthroughs. Yet, achieving this level of precision comes with challenges-ones that require vigilance, planning, and the right technology to overcome.

In this article, we'll explore the challenges of maintaining precise lab conditions, look at real-world examples of what's at stake, and share best practices to protect critical research.

Why precision matters

Temperature fluctuations may seem minor, but in the lab, they can have catastrophic consequences. Dr. Velotta, an evolutionary biologist and principal investigator at the University of Denver, explains how precise temperature control is the cornerstone of his research into high-altitude resilience. His team's work depends on maintaining stable conditions for RNA extraction, an essential step in understanding the genetic adaptations that allow animals to survive extreme environments.

"Without precise temperature control, we can't extract RNA-and without RNA, we essentially don't have an experiment," Dr. Velotta said. This sentiment reflects the broader reality for labs handling sensitive materials: even the slightest deviation can compromise results and waste years of effort.

Discover why temperature monitoring should be on your roadmap.

Common challenges in maintaining stability

Despite its importance, maintaining precise lab conditions is anything but simple. Equipment failures, human error, and unforeseen events like power outages are just a few of the hurdles labs face. As Dr. Velotta highlights, issues such as leaving a freezer door ajar or a brief loss of power can lead to devastating outcomes.

These risks are amplified when dealing with ultra-low temperature freezers, which store samples at -80°C. Ice build-up, for example, can compromise temperature stability if freezers aren't defrosted regularly. However, defrosting is no small task-samples must remain frozen during the process, requiring careful planning and execution.

Learn how better monitoring systems can address these challenges.

Dr. Velotta also emphasises the need for backup systems to guard against power outages, a particularly acute concern in regions prone to severe weather. Without reliable monitoring and contingency plans, researchers risk losing priceless data.

Watch the full episode of Hot Takes with Dr. Velotta

Lessons from Abcam: how monitoring makes a difference

The challenges of maintaining stability aren't unique to Dr. Velotta's lab. Global organisations such as Abcam face similar stakes in safeguarding their sensitive materials. By implementing advanced monitoring systems, Abcam has achieved greater control over storage conditions, ensuring that even minor deviations are addressed before they escalate.

This proactive approach has not only protected their inventory but also enhanced operational efficiency, proving that investing in monitoring solutions pays dividends for research integrity.

Abcam's advanced system monitors over 450 refrigeration and freezer units, enabling the automation of routine temperature checks and eliminating the need for manual recordkeeping. This not only saves valuable staff time but also ensures that their compliance processes meet the highest regulatory standards, delivering peace of mind to both researchers and stakeholders.

Read the full Abcam case study.

Building a resilient lab

Ensuring precise lab conditions starts with adopting best practices designed to minimise risk and enhance control:

1. Temperature mapping: Regularly map your storage areas to identify and address temperature inconsistencies. Explore our guide to temperature mapping.
2. Automated monitoring systems: Real-time alerts and predictive maintenance tools can help labs stay ahead of equipment failures or deviations.
3. Routine maintenance: Schedule regular checks and defrost cycles for freezers to maintain their integrity and extend their lifespan.
4. Contingency planning: Invest in backup power systems and redundant monitoring solutions to mitigate the impact of unforeseen events.

By taking these steps, labs can not only safeguard their work but also free researchers to focus on what matters most: making discoveries.

Preparing for the future

As research becomes increasingly complex, the demand for precision in lab conditions will only grow. Dr. Velotta's experience underscores how critical it is to have the right tools, systems, and processes in place to protect research from preventable risks.

Whether you're conducting field experiments, studying genetic adaptations, or advancing medical breakthroughs, precise lab conditions are the foundation of success.

Learn how Checkit can help your lab achieve consistent reliability.

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Photo by Louis Reed on Unsplash

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