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.