[FDS] Beckman AUC Fluorescence Update

[Wilson, Abraham]

Hello all,

Dr. Demeler, Walter and I all agreed a letter update is in order - I hope this finds everyone in glad preparations for the holidays!

  1.
Please remember everything disclosed below is only for those under NDA signed with Beckman.
  2.
What we need to do to progress the AUC Fluorescence project:
     *
Beckman requires us to pass certain technical readiness levels to evaluate projects with our leadership. Anything that passes our first tollgate, "TG0," gets some degree of funding. We are still pre-TG0 for this project. In order to pass TG0 we must:
        *
Show technical feasibility for all parts of the project (e.g., lasers + detectors work as intended and can operate within an ultracentrifuge).
        *
Show a compelling business case that is approved by leadership.
  3.
Current status within Beckman on the AUC Fluorescence project:   
     *
We have finally and happily secured the time of several engineers within Beckman. Having these engineers means that we now (for the first time) have people to:
        *
Define design specifications / user requirements of a fluorescence detector (Our engineers have intimate knowledge of the existing AUC and the constraints of using its box + dimensions).
        *
 Work on proving feasibility of the fluorescence detector if needed, then to design the detector (if we pass TG0), then to develop the detector for mass production (if we pass the next major tollgate, TG2).
        *
Evaluate + work with partners such as yourselves who we can work with to conduct feasibility or other elements of design + development.
  4.
What's next?
     *
We are working on a user requirements list right now.
     *
We would love to present the user requirements to you in a few weeks (perhaps in January?), then to get a quote from you for what working on the project would cost + a time estimate.
  5.
What does this mean for the grants?
     *
Nothing for the time being. For the first time, we have people to work on the formal Beckman process side of the project. We view this as a big win, but we are still not at the point that we have a formalized, fully funded Beckman project.
        *
To level set, funding a partner to help with feasibility or design of a project is not uncommon, but all such requests are approved on a one-off basis, and are not assumed to be funded (by contrast, fully funded projects at Beckman have more discretion given to the project team).

Walter + I are happy to meet 1:1 with anyone who is interested in discussing more or with anyone who has concerns. We want to make sure we do right by everyone who has been involved. Walter has volunteered to be available the Monday and Tuesday after Christmas. Of course, if those times don't work for you and you'd like to meet. We will be happy to make time.

Thank you and have a great holiday season!
Abe + Walter


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