ABS Blog

Vaccines that protect against COVID-19 infections and illness are readily available to most of the U.S. populations. These vaccines went through an expedited, but rigorous, approval process. They appear to be highly effective and safe. The incidence of side-effects is extremely low. With this efficacy risk profile, there should be little hesitancy in being vaccinated. However, some individuals remain hesitant to receive the vaccines.

When I started ABS the first association with the word culture that came to mind was cell culture. Cell Culture continues to be a major part of our business. Today, however, the culture of ABS is a significant focus of my attention. This is especially the case as

Remote working and social distancing can lessen effective communications between individuals and groups. Recently, I heard that a few employees felt that I was not listening to their concerns. Many of us, myself included, may have deficits in listening to and understanding another position and its needs. It is something I continually work on improving.

The COVID pandemic has produced many changes in our society. Far too many have been affected directly by death, lingering illness, and economic devastation. These types of losses overshadow the very real psychological toll the pandemic has taken on those who have gone relatively untouched by loss of friends and loved ones or even a decline in income.

Being a bench scientist working at a company often means that you work at the same bench or laboratory for many years. Maybe you occasionally change laboratories, most likely in the same building. The only way for change is often to change jobs. But does it have to be that way?

This past week, a series of winter storms hit much of the U.S., causing devastation in many areas. The shutdown of grocery stores, gas stations, and other essential businesses has had a major impact on many people and companies across the country. Our best wishes go out to those of you who have suffered losses and hardships.

A major advantage of working with ABS is our flexibility. We customize our offerings according to your needs. To successfully deliver this type of service requires structure along with responsiveness.

Too often a slogan is often a meaningless tagline. An Extension of Your Laboratory^® has been a part of our ethos since we began in 1990. Recent events have emphasized its importance. With many of our clients’ laboratories nearly shut down or only partially staffed, we were able to help them continue their operations. We intensified our safety precautions, worked remotely as much as possible, and ramped up our operations to meet the increased need of clients.

2020 was a challenging year. The pandemic brought health, financial, and psychological problems to far too many. It also demonstrated what our industry can accomplish with the rapid development of vaccines and new treatments.

2020 has been a challenging year for many. ABS is grateful to its employees and clients for enabling us to overcome those challenges. The remainder of the year will be difficult for far too many with hospitalizations and deaths continuing to rise. Although it is tempting to celebrate together, please persevere by avoiding travel and gatherings outside of one’s immediate household.  The pandemic will come to end, and by doing what we know we should do,  the path to end will be less painful.