Evaluation and Academic Collaboration
We regularly hear from universities and research groups interested in using Pioreactor systems for teaching, screening, and early-stage research. The notes below explain how we approach evaluations and collaborations, and what to expect when reaching out.
Do you offer free evaluation units?
Occasionally, yes, but only in limited and specific cases.
Pioreactor hardware is designed, built, and supported in-house. Because of this, free evaluation units are rare and typically reserved for established academic groups with a clear instructional or research use case.
Most groups begin with a standard purchase, and then expand once the system proves useful in their environment.
What is the most common way groups get started?
The most common path is a standard purchase using our academic pricing.
When groups go on to adopt Pioreactor more broadly, we often support follow-on work with hardware credits, accessories, or other practical support. This allows teams to start normally while keeping room for us to help once adoption is clear.
How do sponsored evaluations work?
In rare cases, we may offer a small number of reactors for evaluation without upfront purchase.
When approved:
- Evaluations are limited to a maximum of two reactor units.
- Core hardware is provided. Major accessories such as pumps are not included.
- A small amount of consumables may be included.
- Expectations around use and follow-up are communicated directly by email.
Sponsored evaluations are intended to assess fit, not to fully equip a lab or course.
Who is eligible to request an evaluation or collaboration?
Requests should come from faculty, staff, or procurement offices using an institutional email address.
We prioritize established academic institutions and research groups with a clear teaching, screening, or research objective. Student-only inquiries are encouraged to involve a supervising faculty member.
Are there geographic limitations?
We support institutions in regions where we can reliably ship and provide support.
Logistics such as shipping, customs clearance, duties, and taxes are handled by the recipient institution for international orders or evaluations.
Do you require a contract or formal agreement?
No. For academic evaluations and collaborations, expectations are typically outlined directly by email. We aim to keep the process lightweight and aligned with how academic groups prefer to work.
What do you expect from evaluation users?
We ask that evaluation users:
- Actively use the system within the agreed evaluation period.
- Share feedback on usability and fit.
- Allow Pioreactor to list the institution as an evaluation user, unless otherwise requested.
There is no obligation to purchase. Many groups choose to expand after an initial evaluation, but the decision is entirely theirs.
What if we are not sure whether we qualify?
That is completely fine.
If you are unsure, reach out with a brief description of:
- Your intended use case
- The number of units you are considering
- Your timeline or course context, if applicable
We are always happy to discuss fit and recommend the best way to get started, even if that does not involve shipping hardware right away.