The TCNP owns and/or has produced several large strain collections that are used for genetic screens and protein chip manufacture, among other purposes.  Together, Jef Boeke and engineer Alan Long developed a robotic system that interfaces with a -80°C automatic storage and retrieval system (AS/RS) and can retrieve ("pick") and rearray individual strains in any desired format in an automated, sterile and error-free manner.  Called "The IcePick", this new system is now under commercial development.

To see the IcePick prototype in action, play the video below: