opentrons-thermocycler

Automate PCR thermal cycling with independent block and lid temperature control on Opentrons platforms.

34|7|Updated Nov 29, 2025
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/jkitchin/skillz --skill opentrons-thermocycler
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: opentrons-thermocycler
Source: https://github.com/jkitchin/skillz/tree/main/skills/laboratory/opentrons-thermocycler
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/jkitchin/skillz --skill opentrons-thermocycler

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

The Opentrons Thermocycler skill automates PCR thermal cycling with independent block and lid temperature control, enabling high-throughput amplification workflows combined with integrated liquid handling.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Independent block and lid control for precise cycling temperatures.
  • Profile execution for multi-step PCR, RT-PCR, and qPCR workflows.
  • Lid sealing integration for GEN2 auto-sealing options in walk-away workflows.

Quick Start

In a protocol, load ThermocyclerModuleV2, prepare a plate, and define a simple PCR profile to run 30 cycles.

Frequently Asked Questions about opentrons-thermocycler

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I automate PCR thermal cycling with independent temperature control?

PCR thermal cycling automates DNA/RNA amplification by controlling block and lid temperatures independently (4-99°C block, 37-110°C lid). Load ThermocyclerModuleV2, prepare a plate with samples, define a temperature profile, and execute the protocol to run multiple cycles automatically.

Can I run qPCR and RT-PCR workflows on an Opentrons thermocycler?

Yes. The thermocycler supports multi-step temperature profiles for qPCR, RT-PCR, and other amplification workflows. Define cycle parameters, temperature steps, and hold times in your protocol to execute high-throughput amplification on GEN2 compatible platforms.

Does the thermocycler work with automated liquid handling and lid sealing?

Yes. The thermocycler integrates with Opentrons liquid handling for walk-away workflows. GEN2 auto-sealing lid support enables automated plate sealing and unsealing within programmable protocols, combining thermal cycling with upstream sample preparation.

What temperature ranges and cycling features does the thermocycler support?

The thermocycler maintains block temperatures from 4-99°C and lid temperatures from 37-110°C. It executes profile-based cycling with independent block and lid control, supporting complex multi-step temperature incubations for diverse PCR applications.

How do I integrate thermocycler automation into a larger molecular biology workflow?

Define thermocycler protocols alongside liquid handling steps: prepare samples, load plates, apply temperature profiles, and retrieve results. Programmable protocol execution allows seamless integration of thermal cycling into automated high-throughput DNA/RNA amplification pipelines on Opentrons platforms.