About Us

Bridging Expertise and Innovation in Flow Cytometry

CytoLogic Solutions was founded in 2024 by Lucas Black, PhD, to address a growing need in biotech and pharma for expert guidance in flow cytometry. As flow cytometry technology has advanced, the complexity of data analysis has increased, creating a gap between raw data generation and meaningful insights. At CytoLogic Solutions, we bridge that gap by providing scientific expertise, technical precision, and strategic problem-solving to help our clients unlock the full potential of their data.

HeLa cell, immortal human epithelial cancer cell line, SEM Anne Weston, Francis Crick Institute

Our Story: A Journey Through Science and Innovation

Lucas’s journey into flow cytometry began in the world of biophysics. He earned his PhD from the University of Edinburgh, where he designed and built high-pressure optical cells for single-molecule microscopy. This deep technical training in physics and imaging became the foundation of his expertise in complex optical systems—skills that later proved invaluable in flow cytometry.

His academic path led him through postdoctoral research positions in Montpellier, Cape Town, and Oxford, where he worked across disciplines before finding himself managing an imaging and flow cytometry core facility at Imperial College London. It was here, while using a BD Aria II cell sorter, that Lucas became hooked on the power of cytometry. The combination of cutting-edge optics, fluidics, and data-driven insights was the perfect blend of science and technology.

This passion led him to consult and teach, working with small biotech companies to provide hands-on training and guidance on cytometry best practices. His ability to translate complex technical concepts into practical applications became a cornerstone of his approach to problem-solving.

Lucas’s first exposure to clinical trials came when he joined IAVI at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital as a Subject Matter Expert in Flow Cytometry. Here, he worked on Phase I-III clinical trials for HIV, Ebola, and COVID vaccines, focusing on assay validation, regulatory compliance, and global EQA programmes. He played a key role in developing and validating two 28-colour phenotyping and ICS panels to investigate immune responses in HIV controllers—demonstrating the critical role of cytometry in clinical research.

In 2021, Lucas moved to Achilles Therapeutics, where he managed flow cytometry and single-cell analysis for a pioneering adoptive T cell therapy clinical trial. He introduced full-spectrum flow cytometry techniques, oversaw the installation of a Sony ID7000, and developed a 35-colour T cell panel for a first-in-human clinical trial. This experience in advanced immune monitoring, combined with his ability to work across teams in a fast-paced biotech environment, further solidified his expertise in high-dimensional single-cell analysis.

With years of experience spanning academic research, clinical trials, and biotech innovation, Lucas founded CytoLogic Solutions to provide expert consulting in flow cytometry, single-cell analysis, and immunology.

Prostate cancer cell, SEM Anne Weston, Francis Crick Institute

Our Philosophy: Expertise with Impact

At CytoLogic Solutions, we believe that precision, innovation, and collaboration are key to solving complex scientific challenges. We combine deep technical knowledge with a practical, problem-solving mindset to help clients generate high-quality, actionable data. Our approach is built on:

  • Scientific Excellence – Bringing the latest advancements in flow cytometry and single-cell analysis to your research.
  • Tailored Solutions – Addressing the unique needs of each client with customised strategies.
  • Clear Communication – Translating complex data into meaningful insights.

Whether you are developing a new assay, optimising a workflow, or integrating cutting-edge technology, we provide the expertise needed to drive your projects forward.

A pancreatic cancer cell. Anne Weston, Francis Crick Institute

How We Work With Clients

Every project starts with a conversation. When you reach out to us, we begin by understanding your specific challenges—whether it’s a training gap, technical troubleshooting, or the need for a completely new approach. Sometimes, a fresh perspective is all that’s required to solve a problem.

From there, we assess possible solutions, outline a strategic approach, and provide clear recommendations. Once we agree on the best path forward, CytoLogic Solutions takes the lead in project management, ensuring well-defined milestones, deliverables, and outcomes.

Our goal is to provide expert guidance that delivers real-world impact, helping you navigate the complexities of flow cytometry with confidence.