1. Development, Simulation and Optimization of Oncology Laboratory Sample Processing Automation
Emily Salmon
Advisor: Norman Purvis, PhD, Esoterix

2. Introduction
Blood and Bone marrow and tissue samples undergo assays performed by certified technicians. Using fluorescently labeled antibodies, flow cytometers are used to measure surface cell antigens. Results are analyzed for conditions related to leukemia and lymphoma.

3. Project Goals
Develop protocols for automation which best represent manual process
Simulate automated protocols using simulation software
Optimize protocols to maximize throughput, increase efficiency and reliability, and decrease manual interaction

4. Aspects of Project
Phase1: Understand basic screening procedures; Determine types of equipment that can perform the process.
Phase 2: Simulate the procedure using laboratory automation software; compare automated to manual time estimates.
Phase 3: Review Process, Verify Results, and Optimize Automation.

5. Phase 1 Research
Observed a laboratory (Allergy Testing) that uses automated laboratory equipment.
Observed Oncology department and became familiar with the types of steps performed in the screening process.
Gathered time estimates for each step performed by technicians as well as for the overall screening.

6. Current Progress Approach modeling with filtration methods
Generate first simulation methods
Gather basic time estimates

7. Sample Assay Flowchart

8. Three Methods Procedure requiring no wash Wash, Centrifuge, Aspirate
Wash, Filter

9. Sample Automated Flowchart

10. Time Estimates

11. Next Phase
Revise automation methods until they are best possible. (Many different aspects to this)
Run simulations to gather time estimates under various process volumes.
Evaluate effectiveness on per plate as well as daily scale.

12. Thank You