Benchling’s developer platform enables you to integrate external systems, automate data operations, and extend Benchling functionality. The platform includes:
- REST APIs for reading and writing structured data
- Events for subscribing to certain kinds of actions or changes within Benchling
- Python SDK for easier programmatic access
- App Framework for integrating third-party tools directly into the Benchling UI
Benchling’s developer platform is available to enterprise tenants with proper API credentials and access permissions.
Access developer documentation
Accessing Benchling's developer documentation is the best way to get started when exploring how to programmatically interact with your tenant's data or build custom workflows. It centralizes all technical guides, code samples, and platform references needed to integrate Benchling into your broader informatics ecosystem.
The full Benchling developer documentation is hosted at: https://docs.benchling.com
All developers are encouraged to refer to this site for up-to-date examples, schemas, and authentication models. Access to developer features requires Developer Platform access from your Benchling tenant admin or support contact.
Access the developer platform
Tenant admins can grant access to the developer platform from the capability management section of the tenant admin console. To enable the developer platform capability:
- Click on your avatar and navigate to the Tenant Admin Console
- In the Tenant Admin Console click into the Users tab
- Find the user that needs access and click … icon at the right of the list of users and click Manage application access
- A manage application access modal will open for each user, use the Developer Platform dropdown to set access to Full, then click Save
Once this has been enabled, access the developer platform with the following steps:
- Click on your avatar and use the Feature settings menu to select Developer console
- Choose between the Apps or Events menus in the developer console to create your app or event
Authenticate and use the API
The REST API is ideal for automating structured data interactions with Benchling—such as syncing inventory systems, loading assay results, or integrating external databases. It provides a flexible foundation for data exchange and workflow automation.
Refer to docs.benchling.com for full endpoint listings, payload schemas, and request examples. APIs are available for registered entities, assays, results, inventory, and more.
Use the Python SDK
The Python SDK provides a simplified, object-oriented interface for developers who prefer scripting Benchling workflows in Python rather than constructing raw HTTP requests. It’s especially useful for scientists and engineers building internal data pipelines or analysis tools.
Benchling provides an officially supported Python SDK to simplify interaction with its API. Refer to docs.benchling.com for documented examples and methods.
Build Benchling apps
If you're looking to create highly tailored user experiences within Benchling or build UI-based tools that respond to specific scientific workflows, Benchling Apps provide a structured way to do that. Apps enable custom logic, data visualization, or automation triggers directly within the Benchling platform. Additionally, Apps are recommended over user-affiliated API keys for scripts or integrations that will be used more than once in their lifetime.
Benchling Apps allow enterprise developers to:
- Create internal tools
- Extend functionality inside the Benchling web UI
- Trigger workflows based on events or user actions
Apps integrate with the core platform via:
- REST APIs
- App manifest configurations
- Secure authentication via OAuth 2.0
Benchling Apps are available to enterprise customers only. Setup instructions and app manifest details are provided in the developer documentation site.
For a complete guide to building apps, see https://docs.benchling.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where is the full Benchling API reference?
A: At https://docs.benchling.com, including REST APIs, SDKs, and app docs.
Q: How do I get access to the Developer Console?
A: Contact your Benchling tenant admin or support representative.
Q: Do I need to be an enterprise customer to use the developer platform?
A: Yes. API access and Benchling Apps are available to enterprise tenants.
Q: Where can I find example code and SDK usage?
A: All examples are provided in the official developer docs.
Q: Can I build an app that appears in the Benchling UI?
A: Yes, with Benchling Apps, you can build extensions that run inside the interface.
Q: Where can I get additional help from peers with my developer platform questions?
A: Visit the Dev Plat section of the Benchling community!