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General FAQs

• Difference between wet and dry lab

  A wet lab refers to a laboratory where experiments are performed using liquid-based substances, such as chemicals, solutions, and biological samples. Wet labs typically involve activities like mixing, heating, and analysing substances in order to carry out experiments or investigations.

  A dry lab refers to a laboratory or computational space where research is conducted using computer-based methods, simulations, data analysis, and mathematical modelling. Dry labs focus on data-driven research, computer programming, and statistical analysis to explore and interpret scientific phenomena or conduct simulations.

• What is the difference between PC1 and PC2?

  In Australia, the difference between PC1 (Physical Containment Level 1) and PC2 (Physical Containment Level 2) laboratory environments lies in the level of biosafety containment.

  PC1 labs are designed for working with low-risk microorganisms or biological materials that are unlikely to cause disease in healthy individuals. These labs typically have standard laboratory equipment and safety precautions, such as basic personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves and lab coats. PC1 labs are commonly used for teaching and research involving non-pathogenic organisms or basic biological experiments.

  PC2 labs, on the other hand, are designed for handling moderate-risk microorganisms or biological materials that have the potential to cause disease in humans. These labs have additional safety measures in place, such as specialised ventilation systems, access controls, and enhanced PPE requirements. PC2 labs are used for research and diagnostic work involving pathogens like bacteria, viruses, or fungi that pose a higher risk to human health.

  The distinction between PC1 and PC2 labs is based on the potential risks associated with the organisms or materials being handled, and the corresponding safety precautions required to protect laboratory workers and prevent the accidental release of hazardous substances. The specific requirements and guidelines for PC1 and PC2 labs are outlined by regulatory bodies such as the Office of the Gene Technology Regulator (OGTR) in Australia.

• What kind of work do you support?

  Whilst we do provide access to labs, we do function like a semi-permeable membrane. We only allow research that is impact oriented to happen in the lab. We do not support research that involves live animal testing, we also do not support any kind of research that could be deemed as illegal, or projects that have a net negative impact on people or the planet.

• Who can join CoLabs?

  Researchers, entrepreneurs, or teams working in biotech, biomaterials, climate tech, deep tech, quantum, biodesign, and anything else that requires wet or dry lab space! Whether you’re prototyping in a petri dish or pitching your first round, there’s a place here for you.

• Can I rent wet lab space short-term?

  Yes – CoLabs provides flexible short-term lab rentals, ideal for pilot projects, early experiments, grant milestones, academic-commercial translation, and rapid prototyping.

• How much does CoLabs membership cost?

  Pricing varies depending on lab access level, desk or office needs, and team size. We offer transparent, flexible plans for solo researchers through to scale-up teams.

  👉 Want pricing? Contact us or download the prospectus.

• What’s included in a CoLabs membership?

  All members receive:

  • Access to shared scientific equipment & consumables

  • Secure storage + compliance systems

  • Community events, mentorship, & founder support

  • Ability to hire media studio infrastructure (podcast, video, content creation)

  • 24/7 access

  • Intros to investors, partners, researchers, and technical experts

  Membership is designed to help you grow faster while staying capital efficient.

• Is CoLabs certified for safe laboratory work?

  Yes – our labs are built to PC1 & PC2 biosafety standards, with full OH&S frameworks and onboarding provided by CoLabs’ in-house safety team.

• Can I bring my own materials or equipment?

  Absolutely. We just review all items for compliance and safe integration into the shared lab environment.

• Can I visit the lab first?

  Yeah, just email us to book in a tour of the facility you’d like to see.

• What is the CoLabs community like?

  CoLabs is home to a diverse group of scientists, designers, engineers, entrepreneurs, creatives, and systems thinkers. Members work across materials, food, energy, health, climate resilience, and deep-tech innovation.

  The vibe: collaborative, curious, playful, people-first, and mission-driven.

• Does CoLabs host events or workshops?

  Yes — regularly.

  Expect:

  • Biodesign meetups

  • Founder breakfasts

  • Biofabrication workshops

  • Deep-tech talks

  • Lab-to-market sessions

  • Community socials

  • Residency programs and demo days

  Members always get first access and discounted tickets.

• Does CoLabs offer more than just lab space?

  Absolutely. CoLabs is also a venture stewardship platform with support such as:

  • Investor introductions

  • Pitch and grant support

  • Equipment partnerships

  • Talent and hiring help

  • Content creation (podcasts, video, storytelling)

  • Web and brand guidance

  • Bioregional innovation and circular design expertise

  We help teams grow not just scientifically, but strategically.

• What is CoLabs?

  CoLabs is a purpose-built innovation hub and bio-tech coworking space that provides shared wet labs, prototyping facilities, offices, and creative studios for scientists, designers, and deep-tech startups. We help founders take ideas from concept to reality – whether you’re working in biotech, biomaterials, food innovation, synthetic biology, or regenerative design and sustainability innovation.