<p><span><strong>If you have been following my </strong></span><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://concentratingonchromatography.com/"><span><strong>Concentrating on Chromatography podcast</strong></span></a><span><strong>, you know that I am constantly searching for the cutting edge of separation science. After years of interviewing the brightest minds in the field, it has become clear to me that the </strong></span><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/companies/218"><span><strong>Multidimensional Chromatography Workshop (MDCW)</strong></span></a><span><strong> is undeniably the best up-and-coming event in our industry.</strong></span></p><p><span>While I was unfortunately traveling in Asia during the most recent session, I was able to catch every detail thanks to the incredible work of </span><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/companies/1"><span><strong>LabRulez</strong></span></a><span>. A huge thank you to <strong>Ivo Novotný</strong> and <strong>the LabRulez team</strong> for providing </span><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLg-M6fM-05MrGrDggkl_UKzzcHPWPmssh"><strong>Open Access video presentations</strong></a><strong> </strong>of the event<span>. Their </span><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/"><span><strong>portal </strong></span></a><span>is an invaluable resource for anyone who needs to find technical information quickly and efficiently.</span></p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Organomation_MDCW_The_Premier_Up_and_Coming_Event_in_Chromatography_2_65b378bf01.jpg" alt="Organomation: MDCW: The Premier Up-and-Coming Event in Chromatography" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Organomation_MDCW_The_Premier_Up_and_Coming_Event_in_Chromatography_2_65b378bf01.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1044" height="455"></p><h3><span><strong>The Minds Behind the Magic</strong></span></h3><p><span>I have had the privilege of featuring the core organizers of MDCW on my podcast, including<strong> </strong></span><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/articles?search=Katelynn+Perrault+Uptmor"><span><strong>Katelynn Perrault Uptmor</strong></span></a><span><strong>, </strong></span><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/articles?search=Dwight+Stoll"><span><strong>Dwight Stoll</strong></span></a><span>, and </span><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/articles?search=Petr+Vozka"><span><strong>Petr Vozka</strong></span></a><span>. Their dedication to creating a space where<strong> forensic chemistry, environmental analysis</strong>, and <strong>metabolomics </strong>intersect is what makes this workshop so unique. The event is a perfect showcase for how multidimensional techniques—like GC×GC and 2D-LC—are essential for tackling the world's most complex samples.</span></p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Organomation_MDCW_The_Premier_Up_and_Coming_Event_in_Chromatography_265c9ec21e.jpg" alt="Organomation: MDCW: The Premier Up-and-Coming Event in Chromatography" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Organomation_MDCW_The_Premier_Up_and_Coming_Event_in_Chromatography_265c9ec21e.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="792" height="230"></p><h3><span><strong>Where Sample Prep Meets High-Resolution Analysis</strong></span></h3><p><span>As we often discuss at Organomation, even the most advanced chromatographic systems depend on meticulous sample preparation. Two presentations highlighted in the LabRulez playlist perfectly illustrate the critical role of </span><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.organomation.com/what-is-solvent-evaporation"><span><strong>solvent evaporation</strong></span></a><span> and </span><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.organomation.com/what-is-sample-concentration"><span><strong>sample concentration</strong></span></a><span>.</span></p><h3><span><strong>Chemical Fingerprints: Emma Macturk’s Quest for Hidden Data</strong></span></h3><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1W5197sp6IY"><span><strong>Emma Macturk</strong></span></a><span>, working in Dr. Katelynn Perrault Uptmor’s lab, is redefining how we look at one of the oldest forms of forensic evidence: the fingerprint. While traditional forensics relies on the physical patterns of ridges and whorls, these are often incomplete or smudged in real-world scenarios. Emma’s research shifts the focus to the chemical residue left behind, which can provide vital "class characteristics" like the biological sex and relative age of a suspect.</span></p><p><span>Her optimized workflow is a masterclass in handling complex biological matrices. Using a cotton swab to extract residue from surfaces, the samples are centrifuged and then "</span><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/article/5392"><span><strong>blown down</strong></span></a><span>" (a critical concentration step for any trace analysis) before </span><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.organomation.com/what-is-reconstitution"><span><strong>being reconstituted for GC×GC-TOFMS</strong></span></a><span>.</span></p><p><span>What makes her work truly fascinating—and highly relevant for our readers at Organomation—is the discovery of anthropogenic compounds. Emma identified UVB blockers like octocrylene and various moisturizers hidden within the natural sterols and fatty acids of the skin. The power of multidimensional chromatography allows forensic scientists to resolve these external "lifestyle" markers from endogenous skin compounds, potentially providing a much more detailed profile of a suspect than a physical print ever could.</span></p><h3><span><strong>The "Green" Revolution: Grace Saunders and the Future of Ballistics</strong></span></h3><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ClD4fjZMNtA"><span><strong>Grace Saunders</strong></span></a><span><strong> </strong>addressed a looming crisis in forensic ballistics: the shift toward "green ammunition." For decades, the gold standard for detecting gunshot residue (GSR) has been SEM-EDS, which looks for heavy metals like lead, barium, and antimony. However, modern environmental and health standards are leading manufacturers to omit these metals. This means that traditional standards are failing to identify GSR in cases involving green rounds.</span></p><p><span>Grace’s research proposes a dual-pronged approach, using GC×GC to target Organic Gunshot Residue (OGSR). Her liquid extraction protocol is meticulous: samples are extracted in methanol, "</span><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.organomation.com/what-is-evaporation-to-dryness"><span><strong>evaporated to dryness under nitrogen</strong></span></a><span>," and then reconstituted. This ensures that volatile and semi-volatile nitroaromatic compounds, such as nitroglycerin and diphenylamine, are concentrated enough for detection.</span></p><p><span>By optimizing parameters like the modulation period (2.5 seconds) and switching to hydrogen carrier gas, Grace was able to resolve these critical markers from the complex background "noise" of human skin. Her work isn't just about better chemistry; it’s about legal survival. As she noted, forensic methods must meet Federal Rule 702 for admissibility in court. Without the organic profiling Grace is developing, evidence from a "green" firearm discharge might never make it past a judge.</span></p><h3><span><strong>The Future of Chromatography</strong></span></h3><p><span>The workshop also featured brilliant presenters like<strong> </strong></span><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YJm_JwHbArE"><span><strong>Ryland Giebelhaus</strong></span></a><span>, whose work on the metabolomics of cannabis exposure during pregnancy shows the real-world impact of these technologies.</span></p><p><span>The MDCW isn't just another conference; it is a community-driven powerhouse that bridges the gap between proof-of-concept and field-ready applications. Whether you are looking for advanced data reduction strategies or the latest in high-resolution mass spectrometry, this is the event to watch.</span></p><blockquote><p><span>If you missed it this year like I did, I highly recommend visiting the </span><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?search=MDCW"><span><strong>LabRulez portal</strong></span></a><span><strong> </strong>to see the full breadth of research presented!</span></p></blockquote>

MDCW: The Premier Up-and-Coming Event in Chromatography

<p><strong>Visit the LabRulez booth at </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/events/871"><strong>analytica 2026</strong></a><strong> in Munich, 24. - 27. March 2026! You can find us in Hall A1, Booth A1.506. At the booth, you will be able to explore live demonstrations of how the LabRulez portals work and see selected analytical instruments from our pre-owned marketplace section.</strong></p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Lab_Rulez_at_Analytica_2026_Floor_plan_55e1057e03.jpg" alt="LabRulez at Analytica 2026: Hall A1 Floor Plan and Booth Location" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Lab_Rulez_at_Analytica_2026_Floor_plan_55e1057e03.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1516" height="881"></p><h3><strong>Would you like to learn how the LabRulez portals work?</strong></h3><p>➡︎ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/"><strong>LabRulezLCMS</strong></a><br>➡︎ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/"><strong>LabRulezGCMS</strong></a><br>➡︎ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/"><strong>LabRulezICPMS</strong></a></p><ul><li>A <strong>unique online solution</strong> for <strong>your marketing</strong></li><li>A <strong>targeted audience</strong> from the <strong>analytical chemistry community</strong></li><li><strong>Modern technologies</strong> and a unique concept</li><li><strong>Design optimized for most smart devices</strong> – PC, mobile, and tablet</li><li><strong>Advanced statistical tools</strong> fully available to users</li></ul><h3><strong>Services Offered</strong></h3><h4><strong>News + Company Updates</strong></h4><ul><li>Publish <strong>news related to your instrumentation, applications, services, events, job openings</strong>, and more</li><li><strong>News is shared</strong> both on our <strong>portals</strong> and across our <strong>social media channels</strong></li></ul><h4><strong>Library – All Documents in One Place</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Applications, posters, presentations, technical articles, brochures, specifications</strong></li><li><strong>Fas</strong>t and <strong>advanced search</strong> capabilities</li><li>Over <strong>32,000 documents</strong> currently available in our database</li></ul><h4><strong>Webinars</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Upcoming and on-demand webinars</strong> from the field of analytical chemistry</li><li>More than <strong>5,500 webinars</strong> covering chromatography, mass spectrometry, and spectroscopy</li></ul><h4><strong>Careers</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Targeted job</strong> listings in <strong>analytical chemistry</strong></li><li>Clear filtering by specialization or location</li><li><strong>Increased visibility for job postings</strong></li></ul><h4><strong>Companies</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Company profile</strong> with key information and contacts</li><li><strong>Integration of all your activities on our portal:</strong> News, Library documents, Webinars, Upcoming Events, Careers, and mentions by partners or customers</li><li><strong>Connection to your Products </strong>listed on LabRulez portals</li></ul><h4><strong>Products and Services</strong></h4><ul><li>Comprehensive <strong>overview of instrumental techniques and services</strong></li><li>Targeting the analytical chemistry community and customers in the growing online environment</li></ul><h4><strong>Marketplace</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Buying and selling pre-owned analytical equipment</strong></li><li>We purchase analytical instrumentation of all brands and ages</li><li><strong>Sell your equipment through LabRulez</strong></li><li>Request and purchase <strong>complete systems, modules</strong>, or <strong>spare parts</strong> with warranty and service</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Lab_Rulez_at_analytica_2026_bazar_7edf4a0872.jpg" alt="LabRulez at analytica 2026" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Lab_Rulez_at_analytica_2026_bazar_7edf4a0872.jpg 88w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="2844"></p><h3><strong>What Will Be on Display at Our Booth?</strong></h3><p>Come and explore selected spare parts and modules from our marketplace section. These include both new, tested, and pre-owned items.</p><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/bazaar"><strong>LabRulezLCMS Marketplace</strong></a></h4><p><strong>Spare parts for LC/MS:</strong></p><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/bazaar?category=378"><strong>Vacuum turbo pumps for LC/MS</strong></a></li></ul><p><strong>Spare parts for HPLC:</strong></p><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/bazaar?category=397"><strong>Degassers for HPLC/UHPLC</strong></a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/bazaar?category=368&amp;search=valve"><strong>Automatic valves for HPLC</strong></a></li><li>HPLC components for Agilent 1100, 1200, and 1260 Infinity II series</li></ul><p><strong>Consumables:</strong></p><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/bazaar?category=377"><strong>HPLC lamps</strong></a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/bazaar?category=48"><strong>HPLC columns</strong></a></li></ul><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/bazaar"><strong>LabRulezGCMS Marketplace</strong></a></h4><p><strong>Spare parts for GC/MS:</strong></p><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/bazaar?category=367&amp;search=turbo"><strong>Turbo pumps for GC/MS</strong></a></li></ul><p><strong>Spare parts for GC:</strong></p><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/bazaar?category=366&amp;search=EPC"><strong>EPC modules</strong></a></li></ul><p><strong>Sample injection</strong></p><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/bazaar/432"><strong>Autosampler 7693A for GC</strong></a></li></ul><p><strong>Consumables:</strong></p><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/bazaar?category=7"><strong>GC columns </strong></a>and selected accessories</li></ul>

LabRulez at analytica 2026

<p><strong>Anna Vanluchene&nbsp;from UCT Prague’s&nbsp;Department of Chemical Engineering has received a&nbsp;prestigious start-up grant from the Dagmar Procházková Fund. However, she did not receive funding right away. In this interview, she describes how she developed ten versions of her&nbsp;</strong><i><strong>Illuminating Flow</strong></i><strong>&nbsp;project idea (combining photocatalysis with flow reactors for pharmaceutical synthesis). She explains why she considers perseverance to be crucial when applying for grants, how international experience has influenced her approach to team management, and how her research can reduce the chemical industry’s&nbsp;dependence on fossil fuels and imports from China.</strong></p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/VSCHT_Praha_Na_startovaci_grant_jsem_cekala_dva_roky_a_napsala_deset_verzi_projektu_2_5b7d63b8e9.jpg" alt="VŠCHT Prague/Tomáš Balický: I waited two years for a start-up grant and wrote ten versions of my project idea" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_VSCHT_Praha_Na_startovaci_grant_jsem_cekala_dva_roky_a_napsala_deset_verzi_projektu_2_5b7d63b8e9.jpg 127w," sizes="100vw" width="1128" height="1387"></p><h5><strong>What did the Dagmar Procházková Fund grant mean to you?</strong></h5><p>I&nbsp;consider it to be a&nbsp;great success. It is the first injection of funding that will allow me to ensure full independence for my research endeavour, to start my own research group, and to fund students so I&nbsp;can get started properly.</p><h5><strong>What have been your previous experiences with grants?</strong></h5><p>During my doctorate, a <i>cotutelle</i> (international doctorate under dual supervision), I&nbsp;was funded by a&nbsp;grant from the French government. Then I&nbsp;worked at the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic (CAS) and received a&nbsp;Marie Skłodowska-Curie Action (MSCA) Postdoctoral Fellowship to go abroad. The idea for my now-funded project was developed about two years ago and, since then, I&nbsp;have gradually developed and adapted the idea for various grant calls. I&nbsp;submitted about ten different versions of the proposal. I&nbsp;did not receive a&nbsp;grant from the Dagmar Procházková Fund last year, but this year, my application was successful.</p><h5><strong>This probably requires a&nbsp;great deal of patience and perseverance.</strong></h5><p>Certainly, because the success rates for most grants have been declining for some time. But as a&nbsp;motivational example, I&nbsp;will tell the story of Timothy Noel, a&nbsp;Belgian professor of chemistry living in the Netherlands. He applied for the prestigious European Research Council (ERC) grant, which is among the most sought-after in Europe, seven times. But no failure deterred him and eventually he succeeded and opened the door to potentially massive grant funding. He was already one of the world’s&nbsp;top scientists in the field at that time and openly described his journey on his blog <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.noelresearchgroup.com/2022/03/17/my-personal-story-to-obtain-an-erc-grant-7-submissions-4-interviews-and-6-heartbreaks/"><strong>blog</strong></a>.</p><h5><strong>What advice does this convey to other grant applicants and early career researchers?</strong></h5><p>Start early, read a&nbsp;lot, don’t&nbsp;give up, and—most importantly—apply repeatedly. Learn from rejections and overcome possible frustration from failures. Read blogs and books by successful people, where you will find not only the glorious results of their work, but also the hardships they faced over their entire journeys. Of course, building your team and laboratory is impossible without finances. I&nbsp;myself still hope that I&nbsp;will be able to receive even bigger grants in the future.</p><h5><strong>How has your international experience influenced your scientific approach?</strong></h5><p>A&nbsp;lot and on several levels. Different laboratories teach you how to do&nbsp;things differently. You gain varied experience about how different institutions function. You see other people’s&nbsp;positive motivations, their ability to be ambitious without negativity, their involvement in institutional matters, their openness to cooperation with companies (e.g., tech transfers, spin-offs). The most important thing is to broaden your horizons. I&nbsp;see going abroad as a&nbsp;necessity. What I&nbsp;have taken away the most is drive, great support, and the idea that scientific output is not just about metrics, but also about dedication to one’s&nbsp;topic.</p><h5><strong>What is your </strong><i><strong>Illuminating Flow: Transport Phenomena in Photocatalysis</strong></i><strong> about, in layperson’s&nbsp;terms, and how is it unique?</strong></h5><p>Most of today’s&nbsp;chemical industry is still based on thermal processes and fossil fuels. Photochemistry enables electrification, where the energy source is photons delivered by LEDs, which can generate electricity from renewable sources. Current research focuses mainly on chemical reactions and their mechanisms, but as a&nbsp;chemical engineer, I&nbsp;focus on designing processes and reactors suitable for industrial use. In batch reactors, light fades rapidly with distance from a&nbsp;source, so much of a&nbsp;reaction mixture is not illuminated. Flow reactors solve this problem, but they bring new challenges such as working with solid catalysts and subsequently scaling up production and achieving higher production rates of the desired chemicals at a&nbsp;given scale.</p><p>One can imagine a&nbsp;transparent tube with a&nbsp;catalyst on the walls, upon which light shines and through which reactants flow. This project has a&nbsp;unique emphasis on engineering solutions and overall process efficiency.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/VSCHT_Praha_Na_startovaci_grant_jsem_cekala_dva_roky_a_napsala_deset_verzi_projektu_3_b978abf25c.jpg" alt="VŠCHT Prague/Tomáš Balický: I waited two years for a start-up grant and wrote ten versions of my project idea" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_VSCHT_Praha_Na_startovaci_grant_jsem_cekala_dva_roky_a_napsala_deset_verzi_projektu_3_b978abf25c.jpg 241w," sizes="100vw" width="1228" height="799"></p><h5><strong>So, were you inspired by a&nbsp;gap in the market to connect photocatalysis with transport phenomena?</strong></h5><p>Exactly. I&nbsp;combine my areas of expertise: microfluidics, photocatalytic degradation of organic substances (CAS), and synthesis (MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowship). The idea itself is not new, and pharmaceutical companies are very interested in “greener” photochemistry, but in practice, there is often a&nbsp;lack of appropriate engineering solutions and apparatus for industrial use.</p><h5><strong>What are the practical applications of your work and what substances are you focusing on?</strong></h5><p>Mainly on pharmaceuticals and on the synthesis of so-called fine chemicals, which are often the building blocks for the production of pharmaceuticals. There is also a&nbsp;geopolitical dimension to this, i.e. less dependence on imports from China and sustainable synthesis in Europe where it makes economic sense.</p><h5><strong>And what chemicals are you specifically talking about?</strong></h5><p>For example, building blocks for advanced synthesis, compounds prepared by trifluoromethylation reactions, or products of oxidation reactions with singlet oxygen. At the same time, we focus on reactions that are, in the classical design process, less safe or technologically demanding, where new approaches, such as photochemistry in flow reactors, could be safer and have better process control. Of course, this is not a&nbsp;universal solution for all types of reactions.</p><h5><strong>The goal of this project?</strong></h5><p>I&nbsp;plan to start a&nbsp;fully functional laboratory and research team, create high-quality experimental data on selected molecules and based on them, try to build cooperation with industrial partners. Without data, it is impossible to come to companies with just an idea. Within three years, I&nbsp;would like to have results that can be realistically presented and further developed.</p><h5><strong>What are the main challenges in transport phenomena during photocatalysis?</strong></h5><p>The methodology for repeatability of experiments in photochemistry is relatively demanding and there are unforeseen obstacles in building apparatus. Also, the scale-up from microliters to a&nbsp;larger scale.</p><h5><strong>What methodology will you use, and how big are the microreactors and their flow rates?</strong></h5><p>I&nbsp;have two different directions in methodological design. The first direction involves microreactors the size of a&nbsp;laboratory slide. You make a&nbsp;structure using a&nbsp;laser, and then you have to cast it and make a&nbsp;microreactor. This allows you to quickly adjust the geometry of the reactor. This method is, of course, not applicable in the commercial setting, but it is ideal for studying transport phenomena and precise measurements.</p><p>The second direction involves reactors that are flow cells. These are already larger, approximately 15 x 15 centimetres, and their flow rates are in the order of millilitres per hour. This is the initial scale that we will further increase during the project.</p><h5><strong>There is a&nbsp;big difference between a&nbsp;flow rate of microlitres per hour and industrial needs. Will it not work differently in reality?</strong></h5><p>Our research will focus on studying the phenomena themselves for now, and scaling will be addressed later. In addition, we will combine the experimental data obtained with computer simulations that will help design suitable conditions for a&nbsp;larger scale. For some high-value fine chemicals, these scales, combined with continuous operation or parallelization of reactors, may already be practically usable.</p><h5><strong>What catalysts will you use and how will you attach them to the reactor walls?</strong></h5><p>I&nbsp;am focusing on heterogeneous photocatalysis, and we will mainly use graphitic carbon nitride and its more advanced modifications. These are semiconductor materials that can be synthesized relatively easily and are suitable for immobilization on glass reactor walls. A&nbsp;key part of this project is the creation of a&nbsp;stable catalytic layer for long-term flow-through operations. To increase the contact of reactants with the catalyst, we will also consider multiphase modes, for example, gas bubbling, in order to disrupt the otherwise laminar flow.</p><h5><strong>Why did you choose this field and the Department of Chemical Engineering?</strong></h5><p>During my postdoc in Belgium, the department had an opening for an Assistant Professor position that caught my attention and I&nbsp;applied for it. I&nbsp;did my undergraduate, graduate, and initial doctoral studies here, and I&nbsp;love the department. I&nbsp;have a&nbsp;Bachelor’s&nbsp;degree in Chemistry.</p><h5><strong>Are you collaborating with anyone?</strong></h5><p>We collaborate with BUT Brno focusing on creating layers and immobilizing catalysts on glass, as well as with the Institute of Chemical Process Fundamentals of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic. And as for organic synthesis, we are connected with Ghent University via postdoc internships. At the same time, my colleague Viola Tokárová and I&nbsp;received a&nbsp;Czech Science Foundation grant in cooperation with BUT Brno and Masaryk University, with our part of the project focusing on the use of flow reactors for photochemical reactions and testing the antibacterial properties of photocatalytic materials. And I&nbsp;am writing other grant proposals in which I&nbsp;am trying to build new collaborations.</p><h5><strong>What does the creation of an independent research group at UCT Prague look like?</strong></h5><p>I&nbsp;started by renovating the premises that were assigned to me and gradually building my team. It is important for research work to have Ph.D. students; I&nbsp;have already hired one and we will recruit more. In addition to building the group, I&nbsp;will engage in securing further funding for the group, so I&nbsp;will be writing more grant proposals. It is important to think far enough in advance when it comes to prospective funding for a&nbsp;research group.</p><h5><strong>What type of students are you looking for?</strong></h5><p>The laboratory and team I&nbsp;are building will be very multidisciplinary, just like the area I&nbsp;am working on. That is why I&nbsp;am looking for students who are attracted to true multidisciplinary research, those who, for example, have knowledge of engineering, but who don’t&nbsp;mind a&nbsp;little bit of pure chemistry. One student in their own right does not have to (and cannot) know every subject, so I&nbsp;will ideally have a&nbsp;team consisting of different people with different research backgrounds. Motivated, DIY-type students who would rather enthusiastically build or invent something themselves than conduct repetitive measurements. Organic or analytical chemists will also find their place here. If this topic is interesting to students in any way, they can definitely contact me. I&nbsp;am also open to interdepartmental cooperation with other UCT Prague Faculties.</p><h5><strong>How would you describe your path to photocatalysis/chemical engineering?</strong></h5><p>Studying Chemistry as an undergrad gave me a&nbsp;broad perspective, but I&nbsp;was gradually narrowing my focus and eventually chose engineering. Chemical engineering intrigued me with its logic and was the easiest for me to grasp at the time. But I&nbsp;have always enjoyed working on projects more than the studies themselves. Even during my Bachelor studies, I&nbsp;really enjoyed and was interested in the Professor Štěpánek Group’s&nbsp;projects, where I&nbsp;was doing something completely different than I&nbsp;do&nbsp;now. I&nbsp;only got into photochemistry during my time at CAS and then, during my postdoctoral fellowship, I&nbsp;devoted myself to electrochemistry. My current focus is, thus, a&nbsp;natural interlinking of all these areas. Consequentially, I&nbsp;developed an awareness of the necessity to become independent and return to the department with my own, different research agenda, which, in my opinion, is an important and correct basis for establishing my own research group.</p><h5><strong>What is the biggest challenge of this project for you?</strong></h5><p>The transition from being a&nbsp;postdoc to a&nbsp;leadership position is a&nbsp;big change for me and I&nbsp;think it is not talked about enough. It means a&nbsp;shift from my own experimental work to leading a&nbsp;team, planning and delegating tasks, and motivating students. From a&nbsp;practical point of view, one of the main challenges is the transfer of reactions from the microscale to functional systems, the construction of reactors, the immobilization of catalysts, and generally confirming that this direction makes sense in the long term and that it has future potential.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/VSCHT_Praha_Na_startovaci_grant_jsem_cekala_dva_roky_a_napsala_deset_verzi_projektu_1_66ac267e06.jpg" alt="VŠCHT Prague/Tomáš Balický: I waited two years for a start-up grant and wrote ten versions of my project idea" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_VSCHT_Praha_Na_startovaci_grant_jsem_cekala_dva_roky_a_napsala_deset_verzi_projektu_1_66ac267e06.jpg 155w," sizes="100vw" width="830" height="839"></p>

I waited two years for a start-up grant and wrote ten versions of my project idea

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The University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague is a natural centre of first-rate study and research in the area of chemistry in Czechia and is one of the country's largest educational and research institutions focused on technical chemistry, chemical and biochemical technologies, material and chemical engineering, food chemistry, and environmental studies.

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Organomation, founded in 1959, designs and manufactures high-quality nitrogen evaporators and extraction systems. Known for innovation and durability, their lab instruments are used globally for efficient sample preparation with strong customer support.

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Thermo Scientific TraceGOLD™ TG-VMS GC Columns

Thermo Scientific™ TraceGOLD TG-VMS GC Columns provide good resolution and fast analysis times for volatile compounds.

<p><strong>Thermo Scientific™ TraceGOLD TG-VMS GC Columns provide good resolution and fast analysis times for volatile compounds.</strong></p><ul><li>Proprietary stationary phase</li><li>Optimized dimensions for analysis of volatile organic pollutants</li><li>Ideally suited for US EPA Method 8260B</li><li>Max. temperature: 260 °C</li></ul><h4><strong>Recommended for:</strong></h4><ul><li>Volatile organic pollutants</li></ul><h4><strong>Application:</strong></h4><ul><li>Volatile Organic Pollutants Analysis</li><li>GC/MS for US EPA Method 8260B Compounds</li></ul><h4><strong>Similar to:</strong></h4><ul><li>Rtx-VMS</li></ul>

Thermo Scientific TraceGOLD™ TG-OCP I and II GC Columns

Analyze organochlorine pesticides and herbicides with ultralow bleed, superior sensitivity, excellent peak shape using Thermo Scientific™ TraceGOLD™ TG-OCP I and TG-OCP II GC columns.

<p><strong>Analyze organochlorine pesticides and herbicides with ultralow bleed, superior sensitivity, excellent peak shape and the highest levels of reproducibility using Thermo Scientific™ TraceGOLD™ TG-OCP I and TG-OCP II gas chromatography columns.</strong></p><h4><strong>Redefining Your Expectations for Gas Chromatography:</strong></h4><ul><li>Low bleed with excellent signal-to-noise ratio, sensitivity and mass spectral integrity</li><li>Fast analysis time to facilitate full separation of chlorinated pesticides</li><li>Ideal for U.S. EPA methods 8081, 608 and CLP</li></ul><h4><strong>Proprietary Formulation Facilitates Analysis of Difficult Compounds:</strong></h4><ul><li>The acidic nature of the silanol groups prevalent within many GC columns can result in the adsorption of basic compounds, which frequently leads to peak tailing.</li><li>In TraceGOLD GC columns, basic functional groups are bonded onto the column surface to reduce the effects of tailing and improve run-to-run reproducibility and sensitivity.</li></ul><h4><strong>A Leap Forward in Column Performance with Low Bleed and Superior Inertness</strong></h4><ul><li>This low-bleed, stable column produces consistent results, and the low baseline noise enables improved limits of detection with enhanced resolution of low-level analytes.</li><li>Minimizing column bleed extends column lifetime, leading to higher productivity.</li><li>Reducing column bleed increases reproducibility of the stationary phase over time, resulting in greater run-to-run and batch-to-batch reproducibility.</li><li>Superior inertness ensures excellent peak shape and sensitivity, especially for highly active or difficult-to-analyze compounds.</li></ul><h4><strong>Recommended Use:</strong></h4><ul><li>Organochlorine pesticides</li><li>Herbicides</li></ul><h4><strong>Similar to:</strong></h4><ul><li>Rtx™-CLPesticides</li><li>Rtx™-CLPesticides2</li></ul>

Thermo Scientific TraceGOLD™ TG-OPP I and II GC Columns

Analyze organophosphorus pesticides with ultralow bleed, superior inertness, and consistent reproducibility using Thermo Scientific™ TraceGOLD™ TG-OPP I and II GC Columns.

<p><strong>Analyze organophosphorus pesticides with ultralow bleed, superior inertness, and consistent reproducibility using Thermo Scientific™ TraceGOLD™ TG-OPP I and II GC Columns. This column's low bleed delivers excellent signal-to-noise ratio, sensitivity, and mass spectral integrity. Expect full separation of organophosphorus pesticides with a fast analysis time. TraceGOLD TG-OPP I and II GC Columns are ideal for U.S. EPA methods 8141A.</strong></p><h4><strong>Redefines Expectations for Gas Chromatography:</strong></h4><ul><li>Low bleed, delivering excellent signal-to-noise ratio, sensitivity and mass spectral integrity.</li><li>Fast analysis time, facilitating full separation of organophosphorus pesticides.</li><li>Ideal for U.S. EPA methods 8141A</li></ul><h4><strong>A Leap Forward in Column Performance with Low Bleed and Superior Inertness</strong></h4><ul><li>This low-bleed, stable column produces consistent results, and the low baseline noise enables improved limits of detection with enhanced resolution of low-level analytes.</li><li>Minimizing column bleed extends column lifetime, leading to higher productivity.</li><li>Reducing column bleed increases reproducibility of the stationary phase over time, resulting in greater run-to-run and batch-to-batch reproducibility.</li><li>Superior inertness ensures excellent peak shape and sensitivity, especially for highly active or difficult-to-analyze compounds.</li></ul><h4><strong>Recommended Use:</strong></h4><ul><li>GC/MS for Organophosphorus Pesticides</li></ul><h4><strong>Similar to:</strong></h4><ul><li>Rtx™-OPPesticides</li><li>Rtx™-OPPesticides2</li></ul>

Thermo Scientific TraceGOLD™ TG-ALC Plus II GC Columns

Perform fast, full separation of blood alcohols and other volatile compounds by headspace gas chromatography using Thermo Scientific™ TraceGOLD™ TG-ALC GC columns.

<p><strong>Perform fast and full separation of blood alcohols by headspace gas chromatography (GC) using Thermo Scientific™ TraceGOLD™ TG-ALC GC columns.&nbsp;</strong></p><p>These columns are also ideal for analysis of other volatile compounds including abused inhalant anesthetics, γ-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), γ-butyrolactone (GBL), glycols, and common industrial solvents. TraceGOLD TG-ALC columns have low bleed for excellent signal-to-noise ratio, sensitivity, and mass spectral integrity.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Note:</strong> Blood alcohol analysis requires dual column confirmation when using GC-FID</p>

Thermo Scientific TraceGOLD™ TG-Dioxin GC Columns

Analyze toxic dioxins and furan congeners with unsurpassed performance and reproducibility with the Thermo Scientific™ TraceGOLD™ TG-Dioxin GC columns.

<p><strong>Analyze toxic dioxins and furan congeners with unsurpassed performance and reproducibility with the Thermo Scientific™ TraceGOLD™ TG-Dioxin GC columns.</strong></p><ul><li>Engineered for Superior Performance</li><li>Isomer specificity for 2,3,7,8-TCDD and 2,3,7,8-TCDF achieved with a single GC column</li><li>High thermal stability—maximum temperatures up to 340°C</li><li>Unique selectivity for toxic dioxin and furan congeners for use as a confirmation GC column</li></ul><h4><strong>A Leap Forward in Column Performance with Low Bleed and Superior Inertness</strong></h4><ul><li>This low-bleed, stable column produces consistent results, and the low baseline noise enables improved limits of detection with enhanced resolution of low-level analytes.</li><li>Minimizing column bleed extends column lifetime, leading to higher productivity.</li><li>Reducing column bleed increases reproducibility of the stationary phase over time, resulting in greater run-to-run and batch-to-batch reproducibility.</li><li>Superior inertness ensures excellent peak shape and sensitivity, especially for highly active or difficult-to-analyze compounds.</li></ul><h4><strong>Applications:</strong></h4><ul><li>Dioxins</li><li>Furans</li></ul><h4><strong>Similar to:</strong></h4><ul><li>Rtx-Dioxin2</li><li>DB-Dioxin</li></ul>

Thermo Scientific TraceGOLD™ TG-PAH GC Columns

Use these thermally stable TraceGOLD TG-PAH GC columns for fast analysis of regulated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in complex food and environmental samples.

<p><strong>Perform rapid analysis of regulated PAHs such as persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in complex food and environmental samples using Thermo Scientific™ TraceGOLD™ TG-PAH GC columns.&nbsp;</strong></p><p>High selectivity and maximum resolution of this capillary silica based column, combined with its unique bonded chemistry, ensure accurate separation of isobaric compounds even at very low concentration levels. The TraceGOLD TG-PAH GC column is regarded as highly robust due to the exceptionally high thermal stability and long life time. Sensitivity is of paramount importance in meeting regulatory standards in the challenging trace analysis.</p><p>Designed for high resolution analysis of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (<strong>PAHs</strong>) in <strong>complex food and environmental samples</strong>.</p><h4><strong>Key benefits</strong></h4><ul><li>Fast analysis of regulated PAHs</li><li>Maximize resolution for critical isobaric PAHs</li><li>Max. temperature of 360°C</li><li>Low column bleed</li></ul>

Thermo Scientific TraceGOLD™ TG-PBDE GC Columns

Use TraceGOLD TG-PBDE GC Columns for fast analysis of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) with high BDE-209 response.

<p><strong>Use Thermo Scientific TraceGOLD™ TG-PBDE GC Columns for fast analysis of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) with high BDE-209 response. This column is ideal for use with U.S. EPA method 1614.&nbsp;</strong></p><h4><strong>Key benefits of this columns include:</strong></h4><ul><li>Fast Analysis of PBDE</li><li>Excellent separation of BDE-49 and BDE-71 exceeds US EPA method 1614 resolution criteria</li><li>Unique treatment gives high BDE-209 response</li><li>High thermal stability—maximum temperatures up to 360°C</li></ul>

Thermo Scientific TraceGOLD™ TG-VVOC B GC Columns

Use the highly inert and efficient TraceGOLD TG-VVOC B GC columns for very volatile organic compounds.

<p><strong>Use Thermo Scientific™ TraceGOLD™ TG-VVOC B GC columns for unique selectivity of very volatile organic compounds (VVOC) like ozone precursors, air toxics, and volatile amines in environmental and industrial samples.&nbsp;</strong></p><p>This highly inert gas chromatography (GC) capillary column, combined with its unique stable bonded phases, ensures excellent chromatographic peak shapes and great stability in difficult matrices such as water or ammonia.</p><h4><strong>Key benefits of TraceGOLD TG-VVOC B GC Columns:</strong></h4><ul><li>Highly inert, good retention, and efficiency</li><li>Great stability and chromatographic performance in difficult matrices</li><li>Highly robust with max temp up to 290°C</li></ul>

Thermo Scientific Trace™ TR-1 GC Columns

Use Thermo Scientific Trace™ TR-1 non-polar GC column for method development and analysis of chlorinated and nitroaromatic compounds and environmental samples.

<p><strong>Use the Thermo Scientific™ TRACE™ TR-1 GC column for method development and chlorinated and nitroaromatic compounds and environmental analyses.&nbsp;</strong></p><ul><li>These non-polar phase, 100% dimethyl polysiloxane gas chromatography columns have a high operating temperature.</li><li><strong>Max. temperature: </strong>340/360 °C</li><li><strong>USP Type: </strong>G1, G2, G38</li></ul>

Thermo Scientific Trace™ TR-1MS GC Columns

Use Thermo Scientific Trace™ TR-1MS low bleed nonpolar column for GC/MS environmental analyses that require high temperature and an inert phase.

<p><strong>With low bleed and a maximum operating temperature of 340–360°C, the Thermo Scientific™ TRACE™ TR-1MS column is ideal for all GC/MS applications. The column is particularly well suited for applications such as GC/MS environmental analyses, which require an inert phase that can operate at high temperature.</strong></p><h4><strong>Engineered for Superior Performance:</strong></h4><ul><li>Nonpolar phase, 100% dimethyl polysiloxane</li><li>High operating temperature</li><li>Inert phase suited for environmental analyses</li></ul><h4><strong>Excellent Quality and Reproducibility:</strong></h4><ul><li>Low bleed even at elevated temperatures</li><li>Outstanding robustness for difficult separations</li><li>Reliable and reproducible performance</li></ul><h4><strong>Applications:</strong></h4><ul><li>Chlorinated and nitroaromatic compounds</li><li>GC/MS environmental analyses</li></ul><h4><strong>Recommended For:</strong></h4><ul><li>Phthalates</li><li>Polymers</li><li>Total recoverable petroleum hydrocarbons (TRPHs)</li></ul><h4><strong>Alternative Uses:</strong></h4><ul><li>Chlorinated Aromatics</li><li>Organochlorine Pesticides</li><li>Organophosphorous Pesticides</li><li>PAHs</li><li>Paraffins</li><li>Polywax</li><li>Pyrethroids</li><li>Semivolatiles</li><li>Xylenes</li></ul><h4><strong>Similar To:</strong></h4><ul><li>DB-1</li><li>DB-Petro</li><li>BP1</li><li>HP-1</li><li>HP-1MS</li><li>Rtx™-1</li><li>Ultra-1</li><li>SPB™-1</li><li>SPB™-1 Sulfur</li><li>Petrocol™ DH</li><li>CP-Sil 5CB</li><li>RSL-150</li><li>RSL-160</li><li>ZB-1</li><li>CB-1</li><li>OV™-1</li><li>PE-1</li><li>007-1(MS)</li><li>SP™-2100</li><li>SE-30</li><li>RH-1</li><li>CC-1</li><li>CP-Sil 5CB MS</li><li>VF-1ms</li></ul>

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