FAQs

What is the Bio-MakerSpace?

Our Bio-MakerSpace (aka BioMakerSpace or BioMaker Space) is an open lab space where students can work on art, biology, chemistry, electronics, & mechanical design, allowing students to combine and work with all these disciplines together or separately. We are the only inter-disciplinary Bio-MakerSpace in the world. There are Bio-MakerSpaces which are limited to biological work.

How do I access the lab / Bio-MakerSpace?

Just walk in! Make sure the lab is open and available by checking the lab calendar. You can add our calendar to your own Google calendar by clicking here.

Do you have ______ in the lab?

All of our equipment and supplies are listed under Equipment & Inventory > Full Inventory with Locations. A full list of equipment is available under Equipment & Inventory > Equipment & Software Information.

Where are ______ in the lab?

All of our equipment and supplies are listed under Equipment & Inventory > Full Inventory with Locations. Identify the location number, then use the lab map (About > Lab Map) to figure out where the item is located. All our shelves and drawers are numbered.

Do I need special training to use the lab?

No. You will have an opportunity to review the lab's policies and guidelines when you come to the lab. All information is available here (About > Lab Policies & Safety).

Certain equipment requires prior approval and/or training. Check the equipment list at Equipment & Inventory > Equipment & Software Information to find out.

How do I find what the Bio-MakerSpace has?

All of our equipment and supplies are listed under Equipment & Inventory > Full Inventory with Locations. A full list of equipment is available under Equipment & Inventory > Equipment & Software Information.

Do you have an inventory list?

All of our equipment and supplies are listed under Equipment & Inventory > Full Inventory with Locations. A full list of equipment is available under Equipment & Inventory > Equipment & Software Information.

There is a class going on in the lab - can I still come in and use it?

During class hours which coincide with the regular lab hours, classes have first priority, but students can use any open bay or the projects room, unless the class information on the calendar specifies that the lab is closed. However, during class hours, please keep voices down.

How do I know where things are located?

All of our equipment and supplies are listed under Equipment & Inventory > Full Inventory with Locations. Identify the location number, then use the lab map (About > Lab Map) to figure out where the item is located. All our shelves and drawers are numbered.

How do I use equipment that's in the lab?

Manuals associated with each piece of equipment can be found under Equipment & Inventory > Equipment & Software Information.

I've never done work with biology, electronics, chemistry... before. How can I learn?

The lab website has numerous tutorials to help you learn: Resources & Tutorials > Tutorials & Useful links.

If I have a question in the Bio-MakerSpace, who can I ask for help?

Reach out to the lab staff who are in Room 211 in the lab. The student employees all wear green lanyards.

How do I use the lab's projector?

Information on how to use the lab's projector system is at Station 12, and the controls are adjacent to it (follow the arrows). More information can be found here. If you need help, reach out to the lab staff or reach out to CETS@seas.upenn.edu

Can I use everything in the lab?

In general, everything available in the lab can be used. There are two exceptions:

  • If you wish to work with Biologics and/or chemistry, you MUST first discuss your plan with the Lab Director.

  • Due to the high popularity for use, the laser cutter and 3d printers are restricted to courses held in the lab which have been pre-approved. Laser cutter access is available through the Rapid Prototyping lab managed by MEAM and in Tangen Hall.

How can I connect with other users of the Bio-MakerSpace?

Introduce yourself to others in the lab. Also, follow the lab on social media (@PennBElabs) and join the lab's slack site.

How do I find about other University resources?

The lab website has links to other university resources: Resources & Tutorials > Tutorials & Useful links.


What chemicals do you have?

Our chemical inventory is currently not public. Please come to the lab and speak to our lab staff for information.

Where can I store my cells?

The Bio-MakerSpace currently does not have a -80 freezer. You will need to find another source for long term cell storage.

Where do I throw _________ away?

Follow the information under Resources & Tutorials > Clean up & Waste Disposal

Where can I get the Bio-MakerSpace's logo?

This can be found under News & Media > Identity Kit

How do I store stuff in the lab?

The lab does not provide storage of material. Specific classes have lockers available in the main entrance of the lab, and lockers are available outside of the lab for senior design. These senior design lockers must be reserved by providing the lab staff with your locker number choice and using your own lock.

Learn more about the Lab's policies here: About > Lab Safety & Policies.