Supporting young achievers
1 Oct 07
Twelve enthusiastic and motivated students from the University of Melbourne and Ludwig Institute joined forces to develop the 'Scyagenics Laboratory User Guide' otherwise known as the SLUG.
As part of the 2007 Young Achievement Australia Biotechnology Entrepreneur ProgramTM, the student group developed the pocketsize reference guide through a company they set up called Scyagenics. Designed by scientists for scientists, the SLUG includes commonly used laboratory protocols stemming from the fields of developmental biology, chemistry, molecular biology, protein biochemistry, microbiology, statistics and microbiology. It provides users with background information, valuable hints, troubleshooting advice and safety procedures . An additional section includes institution specific information such as safety procedures, contact information and numbers.
Compact in size and modular in design, the SLUG allows users to customize the guide by adding the chapters that meet their research needs. Furthermore, the printed version is complemented by an electronic version providing a comprehensive single source of reference.
Supported by the Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute and the Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research and helped by research and industry mentors, the program allows students to be innovative in their thinking whilst developing their entrepreneurial business skills.
Scyagenics launched their SLUG at the University of Melbourne Bio21 Institute Open Day in August receiving positive feedback from laboratory heads and fellow scientists.
As the program draws to a close, the company is building sales rapidly and is in discussions with potential commercial partners.