<div><p><strong>In 2025, two outstanding young female researchers, Drs. Filipa Oliveira and Stella Gonsales, both originally from outside the Czech Republic, received prestigious JUNIOR STAR grants from the Czech Science Foundation (GAČR). JUNIOR STAR enables early career researchers to establish their own independent research groups and significantly advance their scientific careers. Their projects reflect cutting-edge research in materials science and sustainable chemistry, highlighting the international reach and welcoming research environment at UCT Prague.</strong></p><p><strong>Dr. Stella Gonsales is also a&nbsp;laureate of the Dagmar Procházková Fund, which supports promising scientific projects in sustainable and advanced organic chemistry. Another recipient of this grant is Dr.&nbsp;Anna Valunchene, whose research complements UCT Prague’s&nbsp;sustainability goals. This dual funding underlines Stella’s&nbsp;remarkable achievements and the wide scope of innovative research at UCT Prague.</strong></p><p><strong>Both Filipa and Stella are actively looking for motivated students and researchers to join their teams, offering a&nbsp;unique opportunity to work at the forefront of science in a&nbsp;vibrant and supportive environment.</strong></p></div><div><h3><strong>Interview with Filipa Oliveira: Pioneering tubular MXenes for supercapacitor energy storage</strong></h3><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/VSCHT_Praha_V_prestizni_soutezi_GACR_uspely_dve_zahranicni_vedkyne_z_VSCHT_2_da6e538579.jpeg" alt="VŠCHT Prague: JUNIOR STAR Grants at UCT Prague: Two talented women from abroad driving innovation in science: Filipa Oliveira" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_VSCHT_Praha_V_prestizni_soutezi_GACR_uspely_dve_zahranicni_vedkyne_z_VSCHT_2_da6e538579.jpeg 235w," sizes="100vw" width="1500" height="999"></p><h5><strong>Congratulations on receiving the JUNIOR STAR grant. What does this achievement mean for you and how will it influence your next steps?</strong></h5><p>Thank you. It’s&nbsp;a huge achievement to receive this prestigious grant. It gives me the opportunity to establish my own research group here at UCT Prague. The JUNIOR STAR program supports talented young scientists in building their teams and accessing resources. This means I&nbsp;now have the support to focus fully on my research about tubular MXenes and their application in supercapacitors.</p><h5><strong>Why are tubular MXenes so innovative for energy storage?</strong></h5><p>MXenes are a family of 2D materials with a layered, accordion-like structure and known for their excellent electrical conductivity. Our innovation is to produce them with a tubular morphology, combining the high conductivity and redox activity in superior ion-transport tubular architectures. Their open, hollow structure increases surface area, ion diffusion and charge transport. This could translate to faster, more efficient supercapacitors, critical for sustainable energy technologies.</p><h5><strong>How did your scientific interest lead you to this field?</strong></h5><p>Global challenges around green energy made me focus on materials that can improve energy storage. MXenes stood out because changes in the composition and structure can significantly change their properties. I&nbsp;was curious about how tuning different metallic elements in a&nbsp;tubular morphology can impact how MXenes perform and how to optimize them for practical applications.</p><h5><strong>What challenges have you encountered?</strong></h5><p>One major challenge is their stability: MXenes oxidize quickly which deteriorates performance. Another challenge is understanding how synthesis conditions of both MXenes and their precursors (MAX phases) must be adapted to create and preserve tubular morphologies since their synthesis mechanisms differ from conventional MXenes. Additionally, effectively communicating the project in the funding proposal to show to reviewers why I&nbsp;should obtain this funding was also a&nbsp;challenge, but thanks to mentorship and collaboration, I&nbsp;overcame these hurdles.</p><h5><strong>What motivates you most about working at UCT Prague?</strong></h5><p>The support from colleagues and the excellent technical infrastructure make it a&nbsp;great place to work. Also, being a&nbsp;former member of Professor Sofer’s&nbsp;leading group in 2D&nbsp;materials is inspiring and led me to this achievement.</p><h5><strong>How do&nbsp;you see your professional development going in the future?</strong></h5><p>The grant will help me build my own team, acquire equipment, and develop collaborations. My long-term vision is to contribute significantly to sustainable energy solutions and scientific progress both locally and internationally.</p><h5><strong>You are looking for new team members. What kind of students or scientists do&nbsp;you need?</strong></h5><p>We are currently welcoming enthusiastic master's&nbsp;students, PhD candidates, and postdocs who are passionate about materials science and eager to explore new frontiers in MXenes and energy storage. If you love curiosity-driven research and want to be part of a&nbsp;growing international team, we encourage you to join us.</p><h3><strong>Interview with Stella Gonsales: Catalysis as a&nbsp;key to polymer recycling</strong></h3><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/VSCHT_Praha_V_prestizni_soutezi_GACR_uspely_dve_zahranicni_vedkyne_z_VSCHT_3_3d0ded6274.jpeg" alt="VŠCHT Prague: JUNIOR STAR Grants at UCT Prague: Two talented women from abroad driving innovation in science: Stella Gonsales" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_VSCHT_Praha_V_prestizni_soutezi_GACR_uspely_dve_zahranicni_vedkyne_z_VSCHT_3_3d0ded6274.jpeg 233w," sizes="100vw" width="1499" height="1000"></p><h5><strong>Congratulations on your JUNIOR STAR grant and also being awarded the Dagmar Procházková Fund. What does receiving both mean to you and how will they shape your work?</strong></h5><p>Thank you. Both grants are hugely important. The JUNIOR STAR grant allows me to expand my group and resources for research into catalytic recycling of polymers, while the Dagmar Procházková Fund supports complementary projects such as synthesizing new biodegradable polymers. Together, they help tackle the plastic waste problem from multiple scientific angles.</p><h5><strong>Could you explain your research in layperson’s&nbsp;terms?</strong></h5><p>Most plastics have strong carbon-carbon bonds. We insert more cleavable double bonds into polymers that can be broken down by catalytic reactions called olefin metathesis, making recycling on a&nbsp;molecular level more feasible.</p><h5><strong>What makes the JUNIOR STAR grant particularly important for your research and career development?</strong></h5><p>The JUNIOR STAR grant is a&nbsp;prestigious and highly competitive funding opportunity aimed at excellent early-career scientists within eight years of completing a&nbsp;Ph.D. It provides up to 25&nbsp;million CZK over five years, allowing recipients to establish independent research groups and pursue innovative scientific topics. This grant is crucial for building a&nbsp;solid foundation, acquiring necessary equipment, and recruiting talented team members, enabling the pursuit of ambitious projects that can significantly contribute to both the Czech scientific community and global challenges.</p><h5><strong>What collaborations support your research?</strong></h5><p>The collaboration between UCT Prague and the Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry (IOCB) of the Czech Academy of Sciences primarily provides financial and technical support. The cooperation helps with funding, access to advanced equipment, and operational resources needed for running research projects.</p><h5><strong>What advice would you give young scientists aiming to succeed?</strong></h5><p>I&nbsp;encourage thinking outside the box and combining diverse knowledge you acquire during your career to address complex problems that are exciting and relevant to you.</p><h5><strong>Your laboratory bears the name of Otto Wichterle and was ceremonially opened in the presence of Professor Kamil Wichterle. How does Wichterle’s&nbsp;legacy inspire you personally?</strong></h5><p>Wichterle’<s>’</s>s&nbsp;innovative spirit motivates me to push creative boundaries and pursue novel solutions in sustainable chemistry.</p><h5><strong>What are your visions for the future?</strong></h5><p>I&nbsp;aim to build a&nbsp;research group that advances sustainable polymer recycling, contributing to environmental responsibility and the circular economy.</p><h5><strong>You are recruiting people for your team. What skills do&nbsp;they need to have?</strong></h5><p>We are looking for talented Ph.D. students and postdocs experienced in air-sensitive catalysis techniques. If you want to contribute to transformative research in sustainable chemistry and join a&nbsp;dynamic team, this is a&nbsp;great opportunity.</p></div>

JUNIOR STAR Grants at UCT Prague: Two talented women from abroad driving innovation in science

News from LabRulezGCMS Library - Week 06, 2026

<p><strong>Scientists at IOCB Prague are uncovering new details of gene transcription. They have identified a previously unknown molecular mechanism by which the transcription of genetic information from deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) into ribonucleic acid (RNA) can be initiated. The researchers focused on a specific class of molecules known as alarmones, which are found in cells across a wide range of organisms and whose levels often increase under conditions of cellular stress. The results were published in the prestigious scientific journal </strong><i><strong>Nature Chemical Biology</strong></i><strong>.</strong></p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/UOCHB_Vyzkum_z_UOCHB_odhaluje_dosud_nepoznany_zpusob_prepisu_geneticke_informace_bc2bfffa6c.jpg" alt="IOCB Prague/Tomáš Belloň: Research from IOCB Prague reveals a previously unknown mechanism of genetic transcription: Dr. Hana Cahová, head of the Chemical Biology of Nucleic Acids research group." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_UOCHB_Vyzkum_z_UOCHB_odhaluje_dosud_nepoznany_zpusob_prepisu_geneticke_informace_bc2bfffa6c.jpg 234w," sizes="100vw" width="2000" height="1335"></p><div><p>Molecules of ribonucleic acid can carry a variety of chemical modifications at one end, known as caps. In eukaryotic organisms, including human cells, the best-known cap plays an important role in RNA stability and in regulating its subsequent fate. In recent years, however, it has become clear that alternative, non-canonical RNA caps also exist, although their formation and the mechanisms by which they are attached to RNA remain only partially understood. These include alarmone caps, formed by dinucleoside polyphosphate molecules, that protect cellular RNA at moments when the cell is under threat.</p><p>In their study,<strong> </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://cahova.group.uochb.cz/en"><strong>Dr. Hana Cahová</strong></a> and colleagues examined bacterial RNA polymerase and investigated how this enzyme can initiate transcription using dinucleoside polyphosphates (NpNs) instead of the standard RNA building blocks. For the first time, the scientists described, at the atomic level, how RNA bearing an alarmone cap can be generated directly at the initiation of gene transcription. They also observed that NpNs bind through a different type of base pairing than is typically observed.</p><p>The work was significantly shaped by <strong>Valentina Serianni from Hana Cahová’s team</strong>, who demonstrated the ability of dinucleoside polyphosphates to initiate gene transcription, and by <strong>Jana Škerlová</strong>, who focused on the structural analysis of RNA polymerase. Using cryogenic electron microscopy data, she showed how dinucleoside polyphosphate molecules bind within the active site of RNA polymerase – that is, the core of the enzyme where genetic information is transcribed. Together, their findings help to elucidate the processes that accompany the transcription of genetic information from DNA to RNA.</p><p>Hana Cahová adds: <i>“We’re describing something that truly occurs in cells and that we’re now able to observe directly at the level of individual molecules. This allows us to answer fundamental questions about cellular processes, such as how cells adapt to stress. RNA plays a central role in this, as it carries the cascade of information underlying any cellular response – for example, to threatening conditions caused by nutrient deprivation or temperature shock.”</i></p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/UOCHB_Vyzkum_z_UOCHB_odhaluje_dosud_nepoznany_zpusob_prepisu_geneticke_informace_2_0fe88ff9e9.jpg" alt="IOCB Prague/Tomáš Belloň: Research from IOCB Prague reveals a previously unknown mechanism of genetic transcription: Dr. Tomáš Kouba, head of the Cryogenic Electron Microscopy core facility." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_UOCHB_Vyzkum_z_UOCHB_odhaluje_dosud_nepoznany_zpusob_prepisu_geneticke_informace_2_0fe88ff9e9.jpg 234w," sizes="100vw" width="2000" height="1335"></p><div><p>Cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) was central to the project. This part of the work was led by<strong> Dr. Tomáš Kouba</strong>, one of the authors of the study. <i>“Cryogenic electron microscopy allows us to freeze biological molecules in a state very close to their natural form and then determine their three-dimensional structure. This makes it possible to look directly into the active centers of enzymes and observe their function down to the atomic level,”</i> he explains.</p><p>Last year, IOCB Prague opened a new <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://cryoem.group.uochb.cz/en"><strong>cryo-EM center</strong></a><strong> </strong>that is unique within the Czech research environment. State-of-the-art cryogenic electron microscopes are housed in a specially designed building and enable the study of biological processes with exceptional structural precision.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/UOCHB_Vyzkum_z_UOCHB_odhaluje_dosud_nepoznany_zpusob_prepisu_geneticke_informace_3_4d881e7a58.jpg" alt="IOCB Prague: Research from IOCB Prague reveals a previously unknown mechanism of genetic transcription: This work shows how NpnNs initiate bacterial transcription. Cryo-EM reveals how nucleobases pair with the template: one in canonical and one in reverse Watson–Crick mode, providing a structural basis for their function as non-canonical RNA caps." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_UOCHB_Vyzkum_z_UOCHB_odhaluje_dosud_nepoznany_zpusob_prepisu_geneticke_informace_3_4d881e7a58.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="2000" height="1077"></p><blockquote><h4><strong>The Original article</strong></h4><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41589-025-02134-5"><strong>Molecular insight into 5′ RNA capping with Np<sub>n</sub>Ns by bacterial RNA polymerase</strong></a></h4><p>Valentina M. Serianni, Jana Škerlová, Anna Knopp Dubánková, Anton Škríba, Hana Šváchová, Tereza Vučková, Anatolij Filimoněnko, Milan Fábry, Pavlína Řezáčová, Tomáš Kouba &amp; Hana Cahova&nbsp;</p><p>Nat. Chem. Biol. 21 (2026)</p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s41589-025-02134-5">https://doi.org/10.1038/s41589-025-02134-5</a></p><h6>licensed under <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"><strong>CC-BY 4.0</strong></a></h6></blockquote><h4><strong>Abstract</strong></h4><p>RNA capped with dinucleoside polyphosphates has been discovered in bacteria and eukaryotes only recently. The likely mechanism of this specific capping involves direct incorporation of dinucleoside polyphosphates by RNA polymerase as noncanonical initiating nucleotides. However, how these compounds bind into the active site of RNA polymerase during transcription initiation is unknown. Here, we explored transcription initiation in vitro, using a series of DNA templates in combination with dinucleoside polyphosphates and model RNA polymerase from <i>Thermus</i> <i>thermophilus</i>. We observed that the transcription start site can vary on the basis of the compatibility of the specific template and dinucleoside polyphosphate. Cryo-electron microscopy structures of transcription initiation complexes with dinucleoside polyphosphates revealed that both nucleobase moieties can pair with the DNA template. The first encoded nucleotide pairs in a canonical Watson–Crick manner, whereas the second nucleobase pairs noncanonically in a reverse Watson–Crick manner. Our work provides a structural explanation of how dinucleoside polyphosphates initiate RNA transcription.</p></div></div>

Research from IOCB Prague reveals a previously unknown mechanism of genetic transcription

Article

Application

Scientists

Science and research

Video

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.

UCT Prague

The Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IOCB Prague) is a leading scientific institution in the Czech Republic, recognized internationally. Its primary mission is basic research in the fields of chemical biology and medicinal chemistry, organic and material oriented chemistry, chemistry of natural compounds, biochemistry and molecular biology, physical chemistry, theoretical chemistry, and analytical chemistry. 

Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences

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<p><strong>Frontier Lab’s Multi-Shot Pyrolyzer can be operated in different analytical techniques/methods depending on the objective your sample analysis. The most common four major Analytical Techniques are:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>EGA- Evolved Gas Analysis</li>
<li>Single Shot Analysis </li>
<li>Double Shot Analysis:</li>
<li>Heart Cutting EGA-GCMS</li>
</ul>
<p>Plastics and Rubber Industries conduct Polymer Analysis and additives analysis using Frontier Lab’s Py-GCMS system through Evolved Gas Analysis, Thermal Desorption and Flash Pyrolysis</p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Dr Karthikeyan Sathrugnan (Sales and Technical Support for SEA/India at Frontier Laboratories)</p>
</blockquote>


Frontier Lab: Py-GCMS Applications for Rubber and Tyre Industries

Py-GCMS Applications for Rubber and Tyre Industries

In this webinar, you will learn about TD-GCMS and Py-GCMS applications employed in Rubber and Tyre Industries.

<p><strong>To coincide with the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, SepSolve Analytical is delighted to host the 2nd annual eseminar celebrating women in science, where we will hear from leaders in their field about the use of GC across a host of application areas:</strong></p>
<h3><strong>Aromas of the ʻaina – GC×GC for Hawaiian natural products analysis</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><strong>Presenter:</strong> Katelynn Perrault (Chaminade University, USA)</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Investigating the fate of microplastics in the environment by Py/TD-GCxGC-TOF MS: the case of biodegradable plastics</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><strong>Presenter:</strong> Francesca De Falco (University of Plymouth, UK)</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC×GC) method development for detailed characterization of pyrolysis oils</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><strong>Presenter:</strong> Hilal Ezgi Toraman (Penn State University, USA)</li>
</ul>


SepSolve: A Celebration of Women In Science

A Celebration of Women In Science

We will hear from leaders in their field about the use of GC and GCxGC across a host of application areas.

<p><strong>Join our webinar to learn about Py-GCMS and its applications for 3D Printing Polymers Characterization</strong></p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Dr Karthikeyan Sathrugnan (Consultant [Sales and Technical Support for SEA/India at Frontier Laboratories Ltd., Japan)</p>
</blockquote>


Frontier Lab: Characterization of 3D Printing Polymers using Py-GCMS

Characterization of 3D Printing Polymers using Py-GCMS

Join our webinar to learn about Py-GCMS and its applications for 3D Printing Polymers Characterization

<p>Join this webinar and learn about a solution for microplastic and nanoplastic analysis using pyrolysis in combination with single quadrupole GC-MS or high resolution GC-MS.</p>
<p>In this webinar, you will:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>understand the workflow for biota (salmon) from sample preparation to a quantitative result</strong></li>
<li><strong>hear how pyrolysis in combination with GC-MS technology provides a fully automated workflow and the required selectivity and quantification abilities for the detection of microplastics</strong></li>
<li><strong>learn how software tools support you to gain the required selectivity for microplastics and to quantify results</strong></li>
</ul>
<p>This webinar is relevant for:</p>
<ul>
<li>researchers from the food and environmental field</li>
<li>control and governmental labs</li>
<li>plastic manufacturers that are interested to understand more about the degradation of their products</li>
<li>cosmetic industry or research and control labs for this industry</li>
</ul>
<p>Microplastic are particles of  1µm to 5mm and turned into an an emerging issue all over the globe. The intake into the environment can derive from different sources such as laundry effluents, car tires, plastic waste to name a few. Microplastic is found in soil, air and water. Here is an example to give an impression of magnitude of microplastic in the marine environment:  4.8 million tons of plastic waste enter the world&#39;s oceans each year (1). They degradate and can enter as micro- or nanoplastic into the food chain. The degradation of microplastic makes it more risky since nanoplastic (particles smaller than 1 µm) can go directly into human cells.</p>
<p>In addition to their presence which is already of concern, they can adsorb other pollutants like  persistent organic compounds (POPs) on their surfaces. These hydrophobic organic chemicals adhere to the microplastic particles and reach concentrations up to 1 million times higher that of the surrounding medium (e.g., water) (2). The particles may enter the stomach and release the POPs, which accumulate in fat cells. </p>
<p>The goal of researchers is the determination of the micro- and and nanoplastics, their composition and quantities, as well as their degradation products and their source of origin. To identify the kind of plastic like polyethylene (PE) or polyamid-66 (Nylon66), spectroscopic techniques such as FTIR can be used. If quantification or detection of nanoplastic are required, pyrolysis in combination with single quadrupole GC-MS comes into place. For more detailed information, such as degradation products or isotopic ratios for the determination of source of origin, high-resolution-MS is the technology the technology of choice.</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.thuenen.de/de/fachinstitute/fischereioekologie/plasm-mikroplastik-und-meeresfische">References: (1)</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.aquakulturinfo.de/mikroplastik">References: (2)</a></li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Dr. Michael Soll (European Business Development Manager, Frontier Laboratories Ltc.)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Michael Soll studied biology and received his PhD in 1993 at Ruhr University Bochum, Germany.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>He has over 25 years of experience in business development, marketing and sales at various companies active in analytical instrumentation and analytical services in Europe. His functional experience included marketing, application and sales of LC- and GC-coupled mass spectrometry, MALDI-TOF MS and chromatographic tools. End of 2014, he joined Frontier Laboratories, a global leading company in GC/MS coupled analytical pyrolysis. Here, he is managing and supporting distribution partners and supports users of analytical pyrolyzers in whole Europe in terms of applications and technical concerns.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>His most recent employment history is as follows:</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Frontier Laboratories Ltd, Koriyama, Japan, 2014 to present as European Business Development Manager, responsible for support of distribution partners and users in Europe, marketing directed to sales channels and customers</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>LECO Germany, Mönchengladbach, Germany, 2008 to 2014 as Managing Director, responsible for achievement of sales targets, strategic directions, marketing and service optimization</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>SGS, Geneva, Switzerland, 2006 to 2008 asBusiness development manager biopharma quality control Europe.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>ABSciex, Darmstadt, Germany, 1999 to 2006 asSales Manager Proteomics products in DACH territory: increase sales of Mass Spectrometry and Chromatography products</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Petra Gerhards (EMEA Regional Marketing Manager GC&amp;GC-MS, Thermo Fisher Scientific)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Petra holds a diploma engineer in instrumentalized analytical chemistry from the Technical University Krefeld/Germany. For more than 30 years, she worked in the field of GC and GC-MS and covered many technologies in GC and GC-MS. Currently, she supports users and customer application teams all over EMEA in her position as EMEA Regional Marketing Manager.</p>
</blockquote>


Pixabay/Filmbetrachter: Pyrolysis GC-MS for the analysis of microplastic in biota samples

Pyrolysis GC-MS for the analysis of microplastic in biota samples

 solution for microplastic and nanoplastic analysis using pyrolysis in combination with single quadrupole GC-MS or high resolution GC-MS.

Pyrolysis GC-MS for the analysis of microplastic in biota

<p><strong>Join Agilent and GERSTEL for our annual virtual seminar discussing how you can assure safety, authenticity, and quality of alcoholic beverages. Sharing the latest in technology developments and capabilities, new applications, and customer stories. Topics include distilled beverages, wine and beer.  There is something for everyone in this seminar series and we hope to see you there.</strong></p>
<p>Attend live and receive an Agilent GC wine glass!</p>
<h3><strong>Presentation 1: Non-targeted and Targeted Analysis of Spirits Aroma/Flavor Compounds using DHS-GC(-GC)-MS</strong></h3>
<p>Chromatographic analysis of distilled spirits has witnessed a sea change over a recent short period of years. Previous approaches which relied on solvent extraction procedures to enrich the secondary aroma/flavor compounds from the dominant ethanol-water base, can now be replaced by solventless, automated instrumental methods. Such solventless approaches comprise Stir Bar Sorptive Extraction, Static and Dynamic Headspace and Large Volume Injection. These methods rely on the ability of a PTV (Programmable Temperature Vaporization) injector to enrich analytes of interest before transfer to the GC column, while venting unwanted matrix.</p>
<p>Complex GC-MS data files obtained in this way, can also be further processed by powerful filters such as Spectral Deconvolution followed by RI based isolation and verification of identities of aroma/flavor compounds. The sequential progress of the GC-MS data file through these various filters and finally into a chemometric software for investigative discrimination of samples is achieved by simple mouse clicks. This is a very attractive outcome for practicing flavor Chemists and could be regarded as the final fulfillment of what previously could only be an outcome to aspire to.</p>
<p>These solventless techniques can be so efficient, and sometimes give such complex GC-MS data files, that often an additional chromatographic dimension may be required, especially for detection of ultra-trace compounds. This is supplied by chromatographic heart cutting where elution segments from one column are transferred to a second column of different polarity for increased resolution. The necessary instrumental configurations required for this purpose are also available in fully automated format.</p>
<p>Key Learning Objectives/What attendees will learn:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Appreciation of how analysis of distilled spirits has moved into a more modern approach using solventless extraction techniques featuring full automation from sample treatment to GC injection.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Aroma Office in conjunction with MS Spectral Deconvolution will be introduced as a powerful combination for filtering and listing of aroma compounds from complex GC-MS data files.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Two-dimensional Gas Chromatography (2D-GC-GC) will also feature as a valuable tool for isolation of key compounds from interfering matrix in extremely complex data files.</strong></li>
</ul>
<p>Who Should Attend: Chemists and Technicians involved in aroma research and analysis</p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Dr. Kevin Mac Namara (Consultant)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Dr Kevin Mac Namara graduated from the National University of Ireland with a speciality in synthetic organic chemistry. He later joined the Irish Government Alcohol Monopoly and subsequently moved to Irish Distillers Group in 1981 as Head of Technical Development where he established a high profile centre for distilled spirits research. When Irish Distillers merged into the global Pernod Ricard Group in 1990 he assumed a much enlarged role and represented Ireland in EU alcohol affairs for many years before retiring in 2012.</p>
</blockquote>
<h3><strong>Presentation 2: A Variety of Extraction Techniques Used to Determine Analytes of Interest in Distilled Spirits</strong></h3>
<p>Analysis of distilled spirits using GC-MS can be challenging due to the multitude of flavor and aroma compounds that exist in the predominantly ethanol-water mixture. The optimal extraction technique or techniques must be able to isolate and pre-concentrate the analytes before introduction into the GC-MS to produce meaningful data. GERSTEL offers numerous automated sample introduction and extraction techniques including Static Headspace (SHS), Solid Phase Microextraction (SPME), Thermal Desorption (TD), Dynamic Headspace (DHS), and Thin Film Solid-Phase Microextraction (TF-SPME) and Pyrolysis. GERSTEL offers additional features to each extraction technique including Multiple Headspace Sample Enrichment (MHSE) and TDx Multidesorption that can provide significantly more mass on column and lower detection limits. GERSTEL also offers unique detection capabilities with the olfactory detection port (ODP) allowing the analyst to smell compounds as they elute from the GC column. With simultaneous mass spectral detection, key odor-active compounds can be identified in complex products.</p>
<p>Common challenges encountered when analyzing distilled spirits include reproducibility of batches, identifying and quantifying off-odors produced during the fermentation process, and consumer satisfaction, especially in the context of competitors, to name a few. This presentation will show how GERSTEL addresses these complex challenges by having a complete “toolbox” of extraction, introduction and detection options that can be combined and optimized as needed.</p>
<p>Key Learning Objectives/What attendees will learn:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Theory and applicability of SHS, SPME, SBSE, TF-SPME, DHS, and pyrolysis.</strong></li>
<li><strong>How to decide on the most optimal extraction technique based on research challenges.</strong></li>
</ul>
<p>Who Should Attend: Analytical chemists in the food, flavor, fragrance, and beverage industries</p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Megan Harper (Applications Scientist l, GERSTEL, Inc.)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Megan Harper graduated from the University of Maryland Baltimore County in 2020 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in chemistry and received her Master of Science Degree in forensic science with an analytical chemistry track from Towson University in 2022. At GERSTEL, Inc., Harper applies her knowledge on sample extraction and introduction techniques to help solve complex problems for customers across the USA, including those involving distilled spirits.</p>
</blockquote>


Pixabay/Bruno/Germany: 3rd Annual Alcoholic Beverages Virtual Symposium - Spirits

3rd Annual Alcoholic Beverages Virtual Symposium - Spirits

Non-targeted and Targeted Analysis of Spirits Aroma/Flavor Compounds using DHS-GC(-GC)-MS. Extraction Techniques Used to Determine Analytes of Interest

<p><strong>Are you looking for an efficient way to accelerate your catalyst research?</strong></p>
<p>We are excited to announce our upcoming webinar on the use of our online single micro reactor for rapid catalyst screening. This webinar will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the advantages of using this technology and how it can help you save time and money. </p>
<p>Join us to learn more about how our online single micro reactor can help you achieve your research goals quickly and easily. Register now and get ready to revolutionize your catalyst research!</p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Dr. Sathrugnan K</p>
</blockquote>


Frontier Laboratories: Online Single Micro Reactor for Catalyst Screening

Online Single Micro Reactor for Catalyst Screening

Are you looking for an efficient way to accelerate your catalyst research? Use  our online single micro reactor for rapid catalyst screening.

<p><strong>This meeting covers the latest trends and techniques to meet current water and environmental testing demands for emerging contaminants and evolving regulations. Our guest speakers from the water industry and environmental research and testing laboratories will share their expertise on their latest work, analytical workflows, and automation.</strong></p>
<p>Join us and discover valuable insights to maximise testing productivity and instrument uptime, simplify workflows and standardise data workup.</p>
<h3><strong>June 27 (Day 1) Emerging contaminants</strong></h3>
<p>This session will explore PFAS, microplastics, untargeted screening, automation and sample preparation.</p>
<p>Attend the whole day or selected presentations only.</p>
<h5><strong>10:00</strong> Online access opens (Streaming begins 09:30 BST/10:30 CEST)</h5>
<h5><strong>10:30 Opening of the event, welcome and introduction</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li>Presenter: Jeff Stubbs (Thermo Fisher Scientific)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>10:50 Screening of unknowns using Thermo Scientific Orbitrap MS and Thermo Scientific Compound Discoverer software</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li>Presenter: Janine Elliot (Scottish Environment Protection Agency)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>11:20 Biotoxins, seafood safety and mass spectrometry</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li>Presenter: Ben Maskrey (Centre of Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>11:50 Determination of microplastics with pyrolysis and GC-MS</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li>Presenter: Dr. Michael Soll (Frontier Lab Europe)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>12:20</strong> Break</h5>
<h5><strong>12:40 What combustion ion chromatography sum parameter analysis can do for the analysis of PFAS</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li>Presenter: Dr. Lewis Mark (A1-envirosciences Limited)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>13:10 Use of Thermo Scientific Exploris 120 Orbitrap HRAM-LC-MS for the analysis of 47 PFAS compounds in UK waters</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li>Presenter: John Quick (ALS Environmental Ltd.)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>13:40 Workshop - new untargeted PFAS analysis workflow capabilities within Compound Discoverer software</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li>Presenter: Frans Schoutsen (Thermo Fisher Scientific)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>14:10</strong> Break</h5>
<h5><strong>15:10 Starting your voyage into PFAS? Tools and protocols to succeed</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li>Presenter: Ed George (Thermo Fisher Scientific)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>16:10 Workshop - new approaches in performing automation by GC (and LC)</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li>Presenter: Dan Carrier (Thermo Fisher Scientific)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>16:30</strong> Closing of the live streaming event</h5>


Thermo Scientific: Water & Environmental Analysis User Meeting - Day 1

Water & Environmental Analysis User Meeting - Day 1

Streaming live from our Demo Centre in Hemel Hempstead | Join the complete event or the presentations of your choice only.

<p><strong>Microplastics are a rapidly emerging concern that produce a variety of challenges proven harmful to environment, human and animal health.</strong></p>
<p>In this webinar, a solution for characterizing and quantifying microplastics using the micro-furnace Pyrolysis-GC/MS will be discussed.</p>
<p> We will host a Q&amp;A session after the presentation to address any questions or comments.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Alan Owens (GCMS Product Manager, Shimadzu Scientific Instruments)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Alan Owens is the GCMS Product Manager at Shimadzu Scientific Instruments. Alan received his B.S. degree in Biology and Chemistry from Hampden-Sydney college. He then joined Shimadzu as a GCMS Product Specialist at the corporate headquarters in Columbia, MD. Before his time with Shimadzu, he comes from a flavor and fragrance background with expertise in advanced sample introduction techniques such as SPME and Dynamic headspace. He has since expanded into all sample introduction techniques specifically tailored towards Pyrolysis with a heavy influence of plastics and polymers.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Rojin Belganeh (Technical &amp; Marketing Director, Frontier Laboratories-North America)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Rojin Belganeh is the Technical &amp; Marketing Director at Frontier Laboratories-North America. Rojin graduated from the University of Houston with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. She started her profession as an analytical chemist in oil &amp; gas industry in 2012. As an analytical chemist, Rojin worked with various analytical instruments, such as Pyrolysis GCMS, TGA, FTIR, and X-Rays for material characterization, polymer identification, and contamination analysis. She also holds an MBA degree concentrating in strategic marketing from the University of Houston-Victoria. As a former user for more than five years, Rojin joined Frontier Laboratories in May of 2017. She is very passionate in creating awareness about Frontier technology and providing technical support to users.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Athena Nguyen (Technical Support Scientist, Frontier Laboratories-North America)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Athena Nguyen is a Technical Support Specialist at Frontier Labs Americas. She graduated from the University of Houston with a bachelor’s degree in science in chemistry in 2014. The first three years after graduating, Athena worked as an analytical chemist. She has experience using multiple analytical instruments, including GC/MS/FID/ECD, with applications in the oil and gas industry. Athena joined Frontier Lab in 2020 and provides technical and product support to Frontier’s users.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Andy Sandy (GCMS Application Scientist, Shimadzu Scientific Instruments)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Andy Sandy is a Gas chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) Applications Scientist at Shimadzu Scientific Instruments, USA. In 2016, he joined the company. At Shimadzu he is a part of a dynamic application group, which is responsible for developing applications that provide solutions to complex analytical issues. Prior to working at Shimadzu, he completed a post-doctoral study at University of Illinois at Chicago, where he focused on developing environmental analytical methods for identifying and measuring emerging contaminant in the environment.</p>
</blockquote>


Shimadzu: A Simple, Effective Solution for Microplastics Characterization and Quantitation using Pyrolysis GC-MS

A Simple, Effective Solution for Microplastics Characterization and Quantitation using Pyrolysis GC-MS

In this webinar, a solution for characterizing and quantifying microplastics using the micro-furnace Pyrolysis-GC/MS will be discussed.

Microplastics Characterization and Quantitation by Pyr-GC-MS

<p><strong>Have you ever wanted an alternate sample introduction method?</strong></p>
<p>Maybe the sample of interest needs to be hotter than a standard inlet will reach.  Pyrolysis is a sample introduction technique that uses elevated temperatures to break down organic materials.  The starting samples can be anything from liquids to solids from many different application areas.  Attend to get your questions answered by the experts.</p>
<p>On June 28th, Shimadzu Scientific and Frontier Ltd will be presenting “Expanding Material Characterization Capabilities Using Pyrolysis GCMS” where you will learn not only the fundamentals of this technique, but also the application uses.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Nicole Lock (GCMS Product Manager, Shimadzu Scientific Instruments)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Nicole Lock is the GCMS Product Manager at Shimadzu Scientific Instruments. Nicole graduated from Seton Hill University with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. She started her career as a service engineer in a small third-party service organization repairing multiple brands’ GC and GCMS units. This skill set led Nicole to Shimadzu where she has spent the last 12 years working in both the service and marketing department representing the GC and GCMS product lines. Her passion is training others on Shimadzu GCMS and helping customers make the most of their systems.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Rojin Belganeh (Technical &amp; Marketing Director, Frontier Laboratories-North America)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Rojin Belganeh is the Technical &amp; Marketing Director at Frontier Laboratories-North America. Rojin graduated from the University of Houston with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. She started her profession as an analytical chemist in oil &amp; gas industry in 2012. As an analytical chemist, Rojin worked with various analytical instruments, such as Pyrolysis GCMS, TGA, FTIR, and X-Rays for material characterization, polymer identification, and contamination analysis. She also holds an MBA degree concentrating in strategic marketing from the University of Houston-Victoria. As a former user for more than five years, Rojin joined Frontier Laboratories in May of 2017. She is very passionate in creating awareness about Frontier technology and providing technical support to users.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> William Pipkin (Global Marketing, Frontier Laboratories)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>William Pipkin has over 30 years experience in commercializing technology. This includes all aspects: sales, support, marketing, R&amp;D, and management. He has directed inception and development through sales, support, and obsolescence. William has expertise in strategy, market research, market segmentation, advertising, sales promotion, pricing, and customer service. His experience is international including Europe, Japan, and China. His teams and collaborations have been cross-functional, cross-entity, and cross-cultural.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>William received a Bachelor of Science in analytical chemistry (American Chemical Society certified) from Brigham Young University and an MBA in entrepreneurship and finance (Dean’s List) from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. He has been a Senior Fellow in Wharton&#39;s Emerging Technology Management Research Program.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Atsushi Watanabe (Vice President, Frontier Laboratories)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Atsushi Watanabe (known as Ichi-san) obtained his Associate of Chemistry and Biochemistry from Fukushima National College of Technology. He then studied in Vancouver, Canada at the University of British Columbia where he earned a BS in Commerce and General Business Management. He is currently in the process of defending his PhD in analytical pyrolysis at Tohoku University. He is a Vice President in Frontier Laboratories and a member of the board. Currently Ichi-san heads up global marketing and IT. Ichi-san has 4 publications in Japanese and 13 international publication in English. He also serves as a committee member of Japan Gas Chromatography Research Group.</p>
</blockquote>


Shimadzu: Expanding Material Characterization Capabilities Using Pyrolysis GCMS

Expanding Material Characterization Capabilities Using Pyrolysis GCMS

Learn not only the fundamentals of this technique, but also the application uses.

Expanding Material Characterization Capabilities by Py-GC/MS

<p><strong>This series is perfect for anyone currently using GC, who&#39;d like to understand more about the technique, the hardware and the data produced.</strong></p>
<p>It&#39;s also suitable for anyone who is new to GC and who&#39;d like to understand more about it. This webinar is designed to overview of the selection of the most common sampling technique outside of liquid injection.</p>
<p>Learning Objectives:</p>
<ul>
<li><p><strong>Expand your understanding of the versatility of gas chromatography</strong></p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>Understand the principles and configuration for headspace sampling, SPME, thermal desorption (TD), pyrolysis and gas sampling valves (GSVs)</strong></p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>Explore the various applications that these techniques can be used for</strong></p>
</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Ollie Stacey (GC/GCMS Technical Specialist, Shimadzu UK)</p>
</blockquote>


Shimadzu: Alternatives to Liquid Injection for Gas Chromatography

Alternatives to Liquid Injection for Gas Chromatography

The selection of the most common sampling technique outside of liquid injection.

GCMS webinars focusing on Pyrolysis - page 2