Published: 17 Jun 2024
4 min
4 min read
Joo Shun TAN (陈裕声)4,50

From classrooms to pilot production: leveraging INFORS HT innovations for bioprocess scale-up

CustomerLife science research

Discover how INFORS HT bioreactors and services have supported bioprocess education and research at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM). Joo Shun TAN (陈裕声), Associate Professor, shares insights on leveraging Minifors, Multifors, and Techfors bioreactors to enhance teaching, research, and scale-up processes.

An interview style article, authored by Joo Shun TAN (陈裕声),  Associate Professor at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM).

In my position as an Associate Professor specializing in bioprocess technology at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), I’ve had the privilege of leveraging INFORS HT’s bioreactor systems and services to enhance both my teaching and research endeavors. With more than 15 years of expertise in bioprocess, I’ve explored a diverse range of applications involving microorganisms for agriculture, alternative proteins, and biopharmaceuticals. My experiences spans from the use of shaken flasks up to pilot production scale bioreactors. Throughout this journey, I can attest to the invaluable support solutions received through our interaction with INFORS HT.

Starting with INFORS HT: Minifors and Multifors Bioreactors

My journey with INFORS HT began in 2015 with firsthand experience using the Minifors and Multifors bench-top bioreactors, along with the eve® bioprocess platform software at the School of Industrial Technology, USM. The user-friendly interface and robust architecture made it an ideal tool for classroom teaching and research.

Scaling up with a 15 L Techfors pilot bioreactor

Further scale-up concerns were addressed with the 15 L Techfors pilot bioreactor, enriching our educational experiences, particularly in engaging with batch and fed-batch cultivation techniques. Mastering the intricacies involved in fed-batch scripting initially required some practice. The unwavering support and expertise of Shaman Gaspar, Regional Director at INFORS HT Southeast Asia, proved instrumental in simplifying our process. His dedication to ensuring our proficiency is reflective of INFORS HT’s commitment towards customer satisfaction.

Advanced Bioreactor Installations at ABrC

As the laboratory manager for Bio-fermentation Unit at the Analytical Biochemistry Research Center (ABrC), USM, under Prof. Dr. Zafarina Zainuddin’s stewardship, I witnessed INFOR HT’s commitment towards excellence in design during the meticulous installation of a Minifors 2 bioreactor (6L), Techfors bioreactors (150 L and 750 L), and eve bioprocess platform software implementation. The comprehensive training provided to our staff was exceptional. INFORS HT’s generosity in offering free consultation and service strategy demonstrates their dedication to ensuring success within the bioprocess community.

Unparalleled after-sales service

The after-sales service provided by the INFORS HT team has been superlative, consistently exceeding our expectations. Mr. Shaman and his team demonstrate an unparalleled level of care and attention, treating our bioreactors as their own and sparing no effort to ensure optimum performance. Moreover, INFORS HT’s proactive efforts at promoting our facility to their network of partners across Malaysia, Australia, and New Zealand highlights their commitment in fostering collaborative opportunities. Their approach has not only benefited our institution but has facilitated knowledge exchange and collaboration on a global scale.

Seamless transition from laboratory to pilot scale

INFORS HT has been instrumental in resolving the many hurdles and challenges we’ve encountered in bioprocessing, from laboratory-scale experiments to pilot-scale production. Their bioreactors provide seamless transition from process optimization through to production. The robust design and scalability features ensure continuity and consistency in our processes, streamlining our path to commercialization.

Optimizing bioprocess parameters

INFORS HT’s advanced control systems have proven invaluable in optimizing process parameters and achieving desired product yields. Whether fine-tuning agitation rates, monitoring dissolved oxygen levels, or controlling nutrient supplementation, the precision and reliability of INFORS HT’s systems have enabled us to achieve optimal process performance and product quality consistently.

Responsive technical support

INFOR HT’s responsive technical support team has played a pivotal role in swiftly troubleshooting and resolving any operational issues. Whether addressing software glitches, sensor calibration issues, or mechanical malfunctions, their prompt assistance has minimized downtime and ensured uninterrupted operations.

Longstanding and fruitful collaboration

Over the years, my collaboration with the INFORS HT team has been longstanding and fruitful. Having utilized their bioreactor systems and services for well over a decade, I’ve developed a deep sense of appreciation for the reliability, innovation, and support. As a result, I relay on INFORS HT as an indispensable tool in my teaching, research, and bioprocess endeavors.


Learn more about the products mentioned in this article

Bench-top bioreactors

Optimize your lab bench space with INFORS HT's bench-top bioreactors, designed for laboratories aiming to maximize bench space and drive efficiency without compromising their quality and scalability.

Pilot bioreactors

Elevate your process development and small-scale production with INFORS HT's pilot bioreactors—offering consistent scale-up, flexibility, and advanced data management in compact, easy-to-use systems.

Bioreactor services

Maintain optimal performance and longevity in your bioreactors with a range of services and support.

Bench-top bioreactors

Optimize your lab bench space with INFORS HT's bench-top bioreactors, designed for laboratories aiming to maximize bench space and drive efficiency without compromising their quality and scalability.

Pilot bioreactors

Elevate your process development and small-scale production with INFORS HT's pilot bioreactors—offering consistent scale-up, flexibility, and advanced data management in compact, easy-to-use systems.

Bioreactor services

Maintain optimal performance and longevity in your bioreactors with a range of services and support.

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