Infera

Infera is an AI-native platform that acts as the operating system for your laboratory, enabling researchers and lab technicians to control a wide range of lab instruments using natural language. Instead of writing complex protocols, users describe experiments in plain English, and Infera parses, validates, and orchestrates execution across devices like liquid handlers, thermocyclers, and plate readers. The platform targets molecular biology labs performing high-throughput workflows such as RT-qPCR, NGS library prep, and protein expression. It integrates with existing lab equipment and LIMS, providing real-time validation, collision detection, audit trails, and human-in-the-loop approval for critical steps. Infera compiles protocols from methods documents (e.g., .docx), checks for errors, and then runs the instrument deck automatically. Key features include automatic collision detection on deck, volume and reagent checks before execution, traceable audit logs, and a real-time preview showing step-by-step actions, reagent tracking, and estimated time to completion. The compilation step flags issues before any liquid is dispensed, reducing costly errors. Backed by Y Combinator, Infera aims to accelerate lab R&D by making automation accessible to researchers without programming expertise. Infera is still in early access—pricing and setup require contacting the team. It supports major liquid handlers and common lab instruments, with integrations to LIMS and ELN systems. Compared to traditional script-based automation platforms, Infera lowers the barrier to entry for AI-driven lab automation, but it's not yet a self-serve product.