opentrons-protocol-api
Python API v2 for Opentrons OT-2/Flex liquid handlers: protocols as Python files with metadata and run(); control pipettes, labware, and modules (thermocycler, heater-shaker, magnetic, temperature). Simulate via opentrons_simulate then upload. Use PyLabRobot for vendor-agnostic scripts (Hamilton, Tecan).
npx skills add BioTender-max/awesome-bio-agent-skills --skill opentrons-protocol-api --agent claude-code
Same command for any agent — swap --agent for codex, cursor, copilot.
Weekly change comes from our own snapshots, not the repository page — it measures attention, not adoption.
# Opentrons Python Protocol API ## Overview The Opentrons Protocol API v2 lets you write liquid handling protocols as plain Python files that run on OT-2 or Flex robots. Every protocol defines a `metadata` dictionary, an optional `requirements` dictionary, and a `run(protocol)` function. The `ProtocolContext` object passed to `run()` exposes all deck setup, pipette operations, module control, and utility methods. Protocols can be simulated on any computer with `opentrons_simulate` before uploading to the robot through the Opentrons App or HTTP API. ## When to Use - **Setting up PCR reactions**: Distribute master mix from a tube rack into a thermocycler plate, add template DNA from individual tubes, then execute a PCR profile automatically. - **Running serial dilutions**: Programmatically step a multi-channel pipette across a 96-well plate to create 2-fold or custom dilution curves with defined diluent volumes. - **Performing ELISA plate layouts**: Add blocking buffer, primary antibody, secondary antibody, and substrate to defined wells with tip changes between each reagent. - **Automating magnetic bead cleanups**: Engage/disengage the magnetic module, aspirate supernatant, wash wit
- Overview
- When to Use
- Prerequisites
- Quick Start
- Core API
- Module 1: Protocol Metadata and Deck Setup
- Module 2: Pipette Operations
- Module 3: transfer() Shortcut
- Module 4: Labware, Liquids, and Well Access
- Module 5: Hardware Modules
- Module 6: Advanced Protocol Features
- Common Workflows
- Workflow 1: PCR Setup with Thermocycler
- Workflow 2: ELISA Serial Dilution with Multi-Channel Pipette
pip install opentrons Verify installation and simulate a protocol locally opentrons_simulate my_protocol.py Simulate locally — no robot needed opentrons_simulate simple_reagent_distribution.py opentrons_simulate my_pcr_setup.py
What does the opentrons-protocol-api skill do?
Python API v2 for Opentrons OT-2/Flex liquid handlers: protocols as Python files with metadata and run(); control pipettes, labware, and modules (thermocycler, heater-shaker, magnetic, temperature). Simulate via opentrons_simulate then upload. Use PyLabRobot for vendor-agnostic scripts (Hamilton, Tecan).
How do I install it?
Run `npx skills add BioTender-max/awesome-bio-agent-skills --skill opentrons-protocol-api --agent claude-code` — it drops the skill into your project so the agent can pick it up. Swap the --agent value for codex, cursor or copilot if you use one of those.
Where does this skill come from?
From BioTender-max/awesome-bio-agent-skills, a repository with 135 stars. We read it straight from the repository tree rather than a submitted listing, so what you see here is what is actually published.
Is a popular skill a good skill?
Not necessarily. Stars measure attention, not adoption — a repository can trend for a week and be abandoned. That is why we show the weekly change from our own snapshots next to the total, instead of a single flattering number.