If you have been following my <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://concentratingonchromatography.com/">Concentrating on Chromatography podcast</a>, 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 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/companies/218">Multidimensional Chromatography Workshop (MDCW)</a> is undeniably the best up-and-coming event in our industry.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 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/companies/1">LabRulez</a>. A huge thank you to Ivo Novotný and the LabRulez team for providing <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLg-M6fM-05MrGrDggkl_UKzzcHPWPmssh">Open Access video presentations</a> of the event. Their <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/">portal </a>is an invaluable resource for anyone who needs to find technical information quickly and efficiently.<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"><h3>The Minds Behind the Magic</h3>I have had the privilege of featuring the core organizers of MDCW on my podcast, including <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/articles?search=Katelynn+Perrault+Uptmor">Katelynn Perrault Uptmor</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/articles?search=Dwight+Stoll">Dwight Stoll</a>, and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/articles?search=Petr+Vozka">Petr Vozka</a>. Their dedication to creating a space where forensic chemistry, environmental analysis, and metabolomics 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.<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"><h3>Where Sample Prep Meets High-Resolution Analysis</h3>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 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.organomation.com/what-is-solvent-evaporation">solvent evaporation</a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.organomation.com/what-is-sample-concentration">sample concentration</a>.<h3>Chemical Fingerprints: Emma Macturk’s Quest for Hidden Data</h3><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1W5197sp6IY">Emma Macturk</a>, 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.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 "<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/article/5392">blown down</a>" (a critical concentration step for any trace analysis) before <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.organomation.com/what-is-reconstitution">being reconstituted for GC×GC-TOFMS</a>.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.<h3>The "Green" Revolution: Grace Saunders and the Future of Ballistics</h3><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ClD4fjZMNtA">Grace Saunders</a> 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.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, "<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.organomation.com/what-is-evaporation-to-dryness">evaporated to dryness under nitrogen</a>," and then reconstituted. This ensures that volatile and semi-volatile nitroaromatic compounds, such as nitroglycerin and diphenylamine, are concentrated enough for detection.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.<h3>The Future of Chromatography</h3>The workshop also featured brilliant presenters like <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YJm_JwHbArE">Ryland Giebelhaus</a>, whose work on the metabolomics of cannabis exposure during pregnancy shows the real-world impact of these technologies.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.<blockquote>If you missed it this year like I did, I highly recommend visiting the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?search=MDCW">LabRulez portal</a> to see the full breadth of research presented!</blockquote>

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

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

LabRulez at analytica 2026

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;Illuminating Flow&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.<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"><h5>What did the Dagmar Procházková Fund grant mean to you?</h5>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.<h5>What have been your previous experiences with grants?</h5>During my doctorate, a cotutelle (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.<h5>This probably requires a&nbsp;great deal of patience and perseverance.</h5>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/">blog</a>.<h5>What advice does this convey to other grant applicants and early career researchers?</h5>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.<h5>How has your international experience influenced your scientific approach?</h5>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.<h5>What is your Illuminating Flow: Transport Phenomena in Photocatalysis about, in layperson’s&nbsp;terms, and how is it unique?</h5>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.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.<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"><h5>So, were you inspired by a&nbsp;gap in the market to connect photocatalysis with transport phenomena?</h5>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.<h5>What are the practical applications of your work and what substances are you focusing on?</h5>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.<h5>And what chemicals are you specifically talking about?</h5>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.<h5>The goal of this project?</h5>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.<h5>What are the main challenges in transport phenomena during photocatalysis?</h5>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.<h5>What methodology will you use, and how big are the microreactors and their flow rates?</h5>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.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.<h5>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?</h5>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.<h5>What catalysts will you use and how will you attach them to the reactor walls?</h5>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.<h5>Why did you choose this field and the Department of Chemical Engineering?</h5>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.<h5>Are you collaborating with anyone?</h5>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.<h5>What does the creation of an independent research group at UCT Prague look like?</h5>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.<h5>What type of students are you looking for?</h5>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.<h5>How would you describe your path to photocatalysis/chemical engineering?</h5>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.<h5>What is the biggest challenge of this project for you?</h5>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.<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">

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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There is a growing concern related to the ubiquitous nature of microplastics in consumer products.
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Presenter: Benjamin J Southwell (Assistant Professor of Bio-Analytical Chemistry, Lake Superior State University)
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Benjamin Southwell holds a bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Chemistry from Lake Superior State University (LSSU) and Central Michigan University, respectively. With a research focus on studying the analytics of cannabinoids and terpenes in cannabis products as the Coordinator for the LSSU Cannabis Center of Excellence. Currently he instructs courses in Forensic, Analytical, and Cannabis Chemistry.
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Presenter: Derek Wright, Ph.D. (Associate Professor of Environmental Science, Lake Superior State University)
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Dr. Derek Wright is an Associate Professor of Environmental Science at Lake Superior State University. Dr. Wright earned his Ph.D. in Environmental Science from Rutgers University. He has over 20 years of experience with trace element analysis by ICP-MS, ICP-OES, MP-AES, and AAS.
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Agilent technologies: Detecting Microplastics in Cannabis: An Analysis Using LDIR Spectroscopy

Detecting Microplastics in Cannabis: An Analysis Using LDIR Spectroscopy

Detecting Microplastics in Cannabis: An Analysis Using LDIR Spectroscopy.

An Analysis Using LDIR Spectroscopy

Improvements to Microplastics workflow will be demonstrated. Agilent ftir<blockquote>Presenter: Louis Tisinger, PhD (Application Engineer, Molecular Spectroscopy, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)Louis (Lou) Tisinger has a Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from Miami University in Oxford Ohio, where his graduate research involved the study of ATR imaging and microscope performance in vibrational spectroscopy. Most of his career has been related to pre- and post-sales support of FTIR spectrometers, microscopes, imaging systems, and thermal analytical instruments, focusing on analyzing customer samples, demonstrations, post-sales training, troubleshooting, and R&amp;D.</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: New Improvements to MP Workflow

New Improvements to MP Workflow

Improvements to Microplastics workflow will be demonstrated. 

Discover the GERSTEL ChroMOH software, our powerful evaluation software for MOSH/MOAH data, in our informative webinar! See how this software simplifies and accelerates the quantitative analysis of complex MOSH/MOAH chromatograms.Highlights of the webinar:<ul><li>Intuitive workflow for efficient and fast evaluation of complex chromatograms</li><li>Detailed insights into the natural and accurate integration of MOSH/MOAH Humps</li><li>Transparent and customizable reporting</li></ul>Register today and revolutionize your data analysis!<blockquote>Presenters: Isabelle Heker &amp; Timo Köhler, Ph.D.</blockquote>

GERSTEL:  Precise results within seconds  The future of MOSH/MOAH data analysis

Precise results within seconds  The future of MOSH/MOAH data analysis

Discover the GERSTEL ChroMOH software, our powerful evaluation software for MOSH/MOAH data, in our informative webinar!

 Precise MOSH/MOAH analysis in seconds

<h4>Eight Webinars and a Roundtable with Experts from Merck</h4>Analytical Excellence Week' is organized to empower professionals in the field of analytical chemistry. Over the course of eight insightful sessions, industry experts will share their knowledge and best practices to streamline your analytical workflows and enhance your efficiency.From understanding quality grades in inorganics and solvents to exploring sustainable practices in the lab, each webinar covers essential topics that will enhance your analytical capabilities. Learn how to optimize your Karl Fischer titration, achieve precision in PFAS testing, and gain troubleshooting tips for LC-MS to effectively address common challenges and improve your laboratory results.The sessions will also address critical aspects of safety and sustainability, ensuring you are well-equipped to handle hazardous chemicals responsibly while making strides toward greener laboratory practices.This is an invaluable opportunity to gain insights that can significantly optimize your analytical processes. Don’t miss your chance to elevate your expertise and contribute to a more efficient and sustainable future in analytical workflows.Each session is specifically designed to address essential topics that directly impact your daily practices, making it relevant for all professionals working in a chemical analysis laboratory.<h3>Day 5: Friday, 14 February</h3><h4>Roundtable Expert Discussion</h4>Our experts will come together to discuss the best practices to streamline your analytical workflows and enhance your efficiency. We will cover some questions asked during the week, as well as answer new questions during the roundtable discussion. &nbsp;<blockquote>Presenter: Ernie Hillier (Independent Pharmaceutical Consultant, EJH Consulting)</blockquote>

Merck: Webinar Series & Expert Roundtable

Webinar Series & Expert Roundtable (Day 5)

Webinar Series & Expert Roundtable (Day 5) - Roundtable Expert Discussion

Food and environment testing labs face many challenges and are under pressure to maximize efficiency, productivity, and profitability. Customers expect rapid analysis, with testing done using best-in-class instrument and methods that comply with constantly evolving test regulations. Agilent provides instrumentation, software, consumable, services, and support to help you meet your food and environment testing challenges.In this second session we will talk about the analysis of microplastics in the environment and food.<blockquote>Presenter:&nbsp; Dr. Nopparat Vorapalawut (Spectroscopy Solutions Development Manager, Agilent Technologies)Nopparat joined Agilent Technologies in position of Spectroscopy Application Field Service Engineer and is currently Agilent’s Spectroscopy product specialist based in Thailand.She graduated Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry and having previously worked in post-doctoral researcher in France and join Agilent in 2016.At Agilent, she is supporting in technical sales and requirement from customers.</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Optimizing your food environmental testing: Expert tips and insights with atomic and molecular spectroscopy

Molecular Spectroscopy

In this second session we will talk about the analysis of microplastics in the environment and food.

Session 2: Molecular Spectroscopy

With the growing number and diversity of microorganisms infecting humans and animals and 2024 data showing a rise in zoonotic diseases, accurate microbiological testing is vital for detecting foodborne pathogens, spoilage organisms, and technological strains.In a food veterinary laboratory, the identification and typing of pathogens such as Salmonella, Listeria, and moulds are crucial for ensuring food safety and public health. This scientific panel focuses on advanced methodologies for detecting these microorganisms, including rapid techniques such as MALDI-TOF MS and FTIR-spectroscopy.Foodborne pathogens like Salmonella, Listeria, and moulds pose significant risks to public health, making their accurate identification and typing in food and veterinary laboratories essential. PCR, FTIR-spectroscopy and MALDI-TOF MS offer different approaches. MALDI-TOF MS identifies microorganisms based on their unique protein fingerprints, providing rapid and cost-effective results. This technique is particularly advantageous for data analysis up to species level, due to its speed, as it can deliver results within minutes once the organism is cultured.Key questions to be addressed in the panel include: Which is the recommended method for quick, broad-spectrum identification? Are MALDI-TOF MS and FTIR-spectroscopy effective tools for confirming Salmonella and Listeria? And can FTIR-spectroscopy deliver same-day identification and typing results once the organism is cultured?Furthermore, this panel will explore the latest advancements in pathogen confirmation from colony material, including new workflows for mould identification and the application of FTIR-spectroscopy for contamination root cause analysis. Attendees will also hear about new applications of FTIR-spectroscopy for faster, more accurate Salmonella and Listeria typing.&nbsp;Key learning points:<ul><li>New database content of MALDI-TOF MS</li><li>New workflow of confirmation and typing of Salmonella and Listeria by MALDI-TOF MS and FTIR-spectroscopy</li><li>New workflow for identification of moulds.</li></ul><div><blockquote>Presenter: Francis Muchaamba (Postdoc Researcher at Institute for Food Safety and Hygiene, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich )Currently Postdoc Researcher at University of Zurich. Doctor of Veterinary Medicine &amp; Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Zurich, CH. Study of Veterinary Medicine at University of Zimbabwe.Presenter: Sébastien Vacher (Scientific Affairs)Nearly 20 years with &nbsp;Conidia. Research Doctorate, Microbiology at University Claude Bernard Lyon and formation sur la gestion d’entreprises, at emlyon business school.Presenter: Olaf Degen (Director Industry Microbiology)Worked for five years at Bruker and is currently Director Industry Microbiology. Microbiology Researcher at Humboldt University Berlin. Dipl.-Biologist at Freie University Berlin. MBA, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA &amp; WHU, Vallendar, Germany.&nbsp;Presenter: Sarah Guerriat (Researcher at Department of Food technology, Safety and Health)Recently finished Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at University of Liège. Study of Veterinary Medicine at Université libre de Bruxelles, Belgium.</blockquote>&nbsp;</div>

New Food Magazine: Enhancing food safety labs with rapid detection of Salmonella, Listeria and moulds

Enhancing food safety labs with rapid detection of Salmonella, Listeria and moulds

Advanced methodologies for detecting microorganisms, including rapid techniques such as MALDI-TOF MS and FTIR-spectroscopy.

MALDI-TOF MS and FTIR detection of pathogens

This webinar will feature insights from the pesticide testing program at NOW Foods, where over 400 unique pesticide residues are screened across GC and LC techniques in hundreds of sample types, including plant-based powders, liquids, and oils. The work evaluates the performance of the Biotage automated homogenization, extraction, cleanup, and concentration workflow against the laboratory’s current workflow.By attending this webinar, you will learn how:<ul><li>Automation of 60-70% of the preparation process allows an analyst to easily and consistently double man-hour efficiency in sample preparation.</li><li>The Biotage automated preparation workflow can analyze the entire panel of 400 unique pesticide residues and produce results equivalent to manual preparation.</li></ul>Key topics include:<ul><li>Analytical goals and technical considerations for multi-residue pesticide analysis.</li><li>A step-by-step comparison of the current and automated preparation workflows.</li><li>Results highlighting equivalent performance of automated and manual workflows, supported by proficiency testing and matrix consistency data.</li></ul><div><blockquote>Presenter: Ally Fairman, PhD (QC Chemist MS Specialist, NOW Foods)Ally Fairman’s passion for science began at a young age, driven by her curiosity and the endless questions she had about the world around her. Ally pursued this passion academically, earning a doctorate in physical chemistry from the University of Oklahoma. Following her graduation, Ally joined the QC Analytical team at NOW Foods, where she quickly became an integral part of the pesticide residue analysis team. In this role, she ensures that the ingredients used in NOW Foods' products comply with federal pesticide regulations, contributing to the company's commitment to quality and safety. NOW Foods, established in 1968, is a family-owned company committed to promoting health and wellness. They offer a diverse range of natural products, including dietary supplements, organic foods, and personal care items. Their mission is to make healthy living accessible through affordable, sustainable, and innovative solutions.Presenter: Evan Walters, MSc (Market Segment Manager, Biotage)Evan Walters is passionate about science and analytical chemistry in environmental, food, and agriculture markets. A trained environmental chemist and geochemist, Evan uses his background in analytical chemistry to connect laboratories with products and workflow solutions to ensure their success. Evan received a Master of Science in Geochemistry from Southern Illinois University and is a published scientific author.</blockquote></div>

Separation Science: Automated Sample Preparation for Multi-Residue Pesticide Analysis by LC-MS and GC-MS

Automated Sample Preparation for Multi-Residue Pesticide Analysis by LC-MS and GC-MS

The Biotage's automated preparation workflow can analyze the entire panel and produce results equivalent to manual preparation.

Sample Preparation for LC-MS and GC-MS Pesticide Analysis

Are you looking for PFAS in air, water, or food samples?&nbsp;Discover how to automate analytical methods for PFAS determination, including ASTM D8591-24, EPA methods 533, 537.1, and 1633, and FDA method C-010.03. Join us for our webinar, “Determination of PFAS in Various Sample Types, including Air, Water, and Food, Using GC-MS or LC-MS”.&nbsp;The webinar will feature the following presentations:<h5>You're Breathing it Too: Emerging Standards and Methods for Measuring Fluorotelomer Alcohols and Other PFAS Species in Air</h5><blockquote>Presenter: Kurt Thaxton (International Product Manager, GERSTEL GmbH &amp; Co.KG.)</blockquote><h5>Automated Sample Preparation for the LC-MS/MS Determination of PFAS Compounds in Water and Food</h5><blockquote>Presenter: Fred Foster (Applications Scientist, GERSTEL, Inc.)</blockquote>

GERSTEL:  Determination of PFAS in Various Sample Types, including Air, Water, and Food, Using GC-MS or LC-MS

Determination of PFAS in Various Sample Types, including Air, Water, and Food, Using GC-MS or LC-MS

 GC-MS or LC-MS PFAS Determination in Air, Water, Food

Join our upcoming webinar, and discover a comprehensive solution for PFAS analysis, from sample preparation to reporting, tailored to meet European regulatory standards. PFAS encompass several chemical classes, making their extraction and analysis complex. This webinar will introduce a cutting-edge automated sample preparation method to overcome the challenges of PFAS extraction and concentration. Utilizing automated dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction (DLLME), we present a simple, cost-effective, and versatile technique to enhance PFAS detection sensitivity compatible with LC-MS and GC-MS systems. &nbsp;<h5>Discover:</h5><ul><li id="isPasted">Technique for extracting and analyzing various PFAS classes&nbsp;</li><li>An introduction to automated dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction (DLLME)</li><li>How to enhance PFAS detection sensitivity</li></ul><h5>Who should attend:</h5><ul><li id="isPasted">Scientists involved in water quality/contaminant monitoring.</li><li>Regulatory professionals focused on water standards.</li><li>Analytical chemists specializing in PFAS detection and analysis.</li><li>Laboratory professionals seeking efficient and cost-effective sample preparation methods</li></ul>This session includes a recording from the Thermo Fisher Scientific event "Live from the Lab. After the presentation, our product application specialists will be available live to answer your questions in real-time.&nbsp;Register now to secure your spot to join our specialists live or to watch the recording at your convenience.<blockquote>Presenter: Aristide Ganci (Product Manager EFS, Thermo Fisher Scientific)Aristide is an experienced environmental and food testing chemist now specialising in developing LC- and GC-MS analytical workflows to support laboratories in the food and beverages industry. He gained his environmental analytical chemistry PhD for researching POPs at the University of Birmingham, UK.Presenter: Valérie Thibert (Senior Product Applications Specialist, Thermo Fisher Scientific)Valérie holds a PhD from the University Pierre et Marie Curie in France in Analytical Chemistry and has wide ranging experience in clinical toxicology and environmental and food contaminant analysis. Today her work focuses on helping customers in environmental and food safety laboratories with their LC-MS methods needs.Presenter: Jeff Stubbs (Senior Business Development Manager – Environment and Food, Thermo Fisher Scientific)Jeff began his career at Northumbrian Water over 20 years ago, performing routine analysis and developing and validating methods. Jeff has utilised his extensive water industry and commercial experience to work with environmental and food testing laboratories, understand their challenges and create long-term successful collaborative partnerships.</blockquote>

Thermo Fisher Scientific: Detecting PFAS in drinking water for regulations in Europe

Detecting PFAS in drinking water for regulations in Europe

Discover a comprehensive solution for PFAS analysis, from sample preparation to reporting, tailored to meet European regulatory standards. 

The LUMA Vacuum Ultraviolet Detector is relatively new to the analytical industry; this intriguing technology both inspires the imagination with possibilities as well as hesitancy due to its novelty.In this webinar, we will discuss what the LUMA detector can be used for, how it can improve workflow efficiency and simplify complex methods, as well as the impact it will have on future GC analysis.<blockquote>Presenter: Michael Leal (GC Analytical Chemist, Citgo)</blockquote>

VUV Analytics: Advances in Gas Chromatography: How the LUMA Vacuum Ultraviolet Detector can Improve Laboratory Analysis