Countdown to SLAS Europe: NestEgg Labs BV

Founded in 2022 by Tanner Carden (CEO) and Hans Keijdener, Maastricht-based start-up NestEgg Labs BV focuses on developing interoperable automation systems for cell culture that reduce manual intervention, improve workflow reproducibility, and limit plastics waste.

At the core of NestEgg’s offering is Ovation, a smart incubator platform designed to automate key stages of the cell culture process, including media exchange, time-lapse microscopy, and incubation. By combining compact fluid handling with lens-free imaging and cloud-based control, Ovation offers a closed-loop system for remote cell culture operation. The system aims to address throughput limitations and error-prone manual steps in both adherent and suspension cultures. Integrated machine learning algorithms support dynamic cell state monitoring, early detection of pathogens or morphological anomalies, and predictive failure alerts. Ovation is scheduled for commercial release in Q4 2025.

Complementing the hardware is the Feed-Lid, a reusable consumable designed to automate media exchange on standard 6-well plates. This component enables labs to adopt automation while maintaining compatibility with existing assay formats. The Feed-Lid operates via the Ovation interface and supports custom protocol development by the user. It is currently available and represents a low-barrier entry point to the NestEgg ecosystem.

The automation platform is managed through Vitellus, a cloud-native software application that serves as both a device interface and analytics engine. Vitellus allows researchers to harmonise structured experimental outputs with unstructured notes, and to leverage machine learning for real-time data interpretation and predictive modelling. Beta testing is expected to begin in Q4 2024.

In addition to its core product suite, NestEgg Labs provides custom engineering solutions, supporting laboratories with specific experimental or integration needs. Services range from hardware-software adaptation to full protocol development and system interoperability consulting.

By focusing on modularity, affordability, and ease of implementation, NestEgg Labs is helping to make advanced automation accessible to a broader range of research environments. The company will be present at SLAS Europe 2025, from 20–22 May in Hamburg.

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