Tokyo has opened its first medical laboratory where experiments are conducted exclusively by robots

Tokyo University of Science has launched a Robotics Innovation Center, where automated systems carry out the entire research cycle without human intervention. The facility currently houses 10 robots, including the Maholo LabDroid humanoid model, which are capable of culturing cells and handling reagents. 

This was reported by Kyodo News.

The robotic systems are equipped with two mechanical arms to perform highly precise tasks, ranging from dispensing materials to controlling temperature equipment. Center Director Keiichi Nakayama noted that the integration of robots with artificial intelligence aims to propel Japanese science to global leadership. By 2040, plans call for expanding the fleet to 2,000 units to automate all stages of scientific research—from formulating hypotheses to analyzing results.

The project is designed to address the acute shortage of personnel in Japan’s scientific sector and minimize errors caused by human factors. The use of artificial intelligence will accelerate the development of new treatments and medications. During the laboratory’s official opening, the robots independently performed the ribbon-cutting ceremony, demonstrating their readiness for fully autonomous operation.

Japan Airlines plans to launch a pilot program in May using humanoid robots to handle baggage at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport. This is intended to partially offset staff shortages and reduce the workload on employees.

In Germany, there are calls to ban nighttime operation of robotic lawn mowers due to hedgehogs.