Long-Standing Partnership & Client Needs
For nearly two decades, Rees Scientific has supported Duke University across critical areas of research, including cord blood banking, cancer studies, and stem cell research. In 2024, the Duke Human Vaccine Institute (DHVI) joined the partnership, marking a new chapter of collaboration. Duke required a monitoring solution that could match the scale and complexity of their research operations, covering everything from ultra-low temperature freezers to controlled lab environments, while also ensuring regulatory compliance and data integrity.
Rees Scientific’s Tailored Solution
Rees implemented a 270-input hybrid Environmental Monitoring System (EMS), combining wireless and hardwired sensors to track temperature, humidity, CO₂, power, water detection, and differential pressure. To meet strict compliance and accuracy standards, Rees also provided multi-point calibration services across all monitoring inputs. Beyond core monitoring, Rees delivered custom-engineered solutions, including PLC-based lighting and access control systems, validated process gas weighing, and BACnet integration for utilities. Local field engineers and comprehensive documentation ensured Duke’s system was not only operational but audit-ready and supported for the long term.
Results of the System
With Rees’ expertise, Duke’s system has grown into one of the most advanced monitoring platforms in the Research Triangle Park area. The flexible architecture allows seamless expansion as research needs evolve, while advanced sensors and software provide real-time visibility across labs and controlled storage units. Regular calibration, preventative maintenance, and ongoing technical support give Duke confidence in their data, minimize downtime, and reduce compliance risks. Most importantly, these solutions free researchers to focus on groundbreaking science rather than system management.
Key Takeaways
- Scalable Design: Rees built a monitoring solution capable of handling Duke’s complex research environment while remaining adaptable for future expansion—an approach well-suited to other growing facilities.
- Data Accuracy: Multi-point calibration ensured reliable monitoring from freezers to lab spaces, showing how precision safeguards research integrity and compliance in any lab setting.
- Integrated Engineering: By extending beyond monitoring into utilities, access controls, and process systems, Rees demonstrated how integrated solutions can streamline operations across similar labs.
- Ongoing Support: Regional service, preventative maintenance, and continuous calibration allowed Duke to focus on research, highlighting the importance of long-term support for any facility’s success.
Want to explore the full story? Read the complete case study to see how Rees Scientific delivers end-to-end solutions that grow with our clients and empower groundbreaking research.
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