<human>:  What approaches could be used to reduce the cost of laboratory research?
<bot>: 
1. Utilising established research protocols to reduce the need for specialist equipment and personnel.
2. Minimising the amount of experimental materials needed by increasing the efficiency of the research process.
3. Using computer-aided research processes to reduce the time needed to complete the research.
4. Introducing cost-saving regulations and standards for laboratory equipment and supplies.
5. Encouraging collaboration between research institutes and laboratories to share expensive equipment and resources.
6. Streamlining laboratory duties to focus on specific areas of research, reducing the overall number of personnel required.
7. Offering incentives and discounts to bulk purchase expensive supplies and equipment.
8. Investigating the potential of virtual laboratories to minimise the need for specialist staff and physical environments.