How to Achieve Big Lab Dreams on a Small Lab Budget

Starting a new lab is a heavy lift, both in time and money. There’s so much to do and so many variables to consider before getting your new lab up and running. Plus, the choices made at startup will have an impact on the lab – far into the future.

If you want to get the most out of a new lab, minimize downtime, and optimize your spending, a lab start-up program may be ideal. It’s a smart way to get the support needed to ensure a smooth set-up or transition without overly taxing your researchers, lab managers or other key personnel.

This FAQ answers many questions that may arise if you are considering a lab start-up program.

Q: What is a lab start-up program?

A: Generally, lab start-up programs are opportunities for academic-based labs, entrepreneurial start-up labs, or companies relocating a lab to acquire instruments and expertise at special financial considerations, including grant matching.

Lab start-up programs have been developed to help Lab Managers maximize ROI from Day One.

For example, once accepted to our Lab StartUp program, members enjoy:

• Grant Matching
• Free Periodic Table Poster
• Special Financing Options
• 30% Savings on Consumables
• 15% Off Homogenizers and Auto-Sample Prep

Q: Who is eligible?

A: It all depends on the specific program. To be eligible for PerkinElmer’s Lab StartUp, you must have done or be planning to do one of the following in the next 12 months:

• Opened or are opening a new lab within your institution
• Opened or are opening a new lab at a different institution
• Starting a new company
• Moving your current lab into a new space
• Received your first research grant

Q: What other considerations do I need to think about?

A: Setting up your lab the right way the first time is crucial to streamlined functioning and future expansion.

Here are some logistics you should carefully consider:

Infrastructure: This process includes thinking about how transportation around the lab will work and if researchers have easy access to utility systems. In addition, factors such as HVAC need to be accounted for, including building in space for possible future maintenance. Flexibility and adaptability are two considerations and building them into your lab early on can save you time and money down the line.

Equipment: Without the right equipment, a lab couldn’t produce results. But more than just purchasing what you need right now, think about years down the line to build in extra functionalities if they expand the scope of their research. Equipment requires care and monitoring so building in support for those aspects is essential to keeping a smooth and steady lab workflow.

Protocols: All labs have standard protocols but starting a lab without a system to put them in place and monitor them can get you off to a rough start.  If a protocol has too many edits or additions, it can become confusing and errors could happen. Make sure you can maintain proper procedures and have a system for any changes you need to make down the line.

Q: How can I determine if my lab is eligible?

A: PerkinElmer Lab StartUp has a Registration Form you can fill out. The team will review your application and contact you shortly thereafter and discuss your eligibility.

Q: Is there cost or commitment on my part for registering?

A: PerkinElmer’s Lab StartUp is a complimentary service with no commitments on your part. However, if investigating other such lab start up programs you will need to pay attention to terms and conditions when considering these important decisions in your lab’s creation.

Q: How do I learn more?

A: Watch this video.

Register now to check your lab’s eligibility.