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

🎤Alex BrodyIn this episode of Concentrating on Chromatography, we sit down with Alex Brody, an organic chemist at Aqua America, to discuss the rigorous analytical methods required for regulated drinking water testing.Alex walks us through the multi-step PFAS detection process using EPA Method 537.1, including extraction, nitrogen blowdown concentration, and LC-MS analysis. He explains why sample preparation and quality control are critical for achieving trace-level detection—and why these methods can't be rushed or simplified, even with new technologies available.We also explore taste and odor investigations, disinfection byproducts, and volatile organic compounds, plus the surprising reality of why regulated labs move slowly when adopting new instrumentation. You'll learn about the quality control checkpoints, peer review processes, and the misconceptions surrounding analytical turnaround times in compliance labs.<h5>Topics Covered:</h5><ul><li>Role of organic chemistry in regulated drinking water labs</li><li>EPA compliance requirements and regulatory bodies (EPA, PA-DEP)</li><li>PFAS detection using Method 537.1 and LC-MS</li><li>The critical importance of nitrogen blowdown sample concentration</li><li>Taste and odor analysis: MIB, Geosmin, and unknown compound identification</li><li>Why regulated methods evolve slowly (validation timelines, approval processes)</li><li>Quality control procedures: calibration checks, matrix spikes, surrogate standards, internal standards</li><li>Automated sample preparation and lab efficiency</li><li>Future PFAS regulations and Method 533 expansion</li></ul><h5>Ideal For:</h5><ul><li>Analytical chemists and environmental lab professionals</li><li>Water utilities and compliance officers</li><li>Chromatography practitioners interested in regulated workflows</li><li>Anyone curious about how drinking water safety is ensured</li></ul><h2>Video Transcription</h2><h3>Ensuring Safe Drinking Water Through Advanced Analytical Chemistry</h3><h4>Insights from a Regulated Water Testing Laboratory</h4>Analytical laboratories responsible for regulated drinking water testing operate under strict compliance frameworks to ensure the delivery of safe and reliable water supplies. In this interview, Alex, an organic chemist at Aqua America, outlines the scope of analytical work conducted in a modern water quality laboratory. The team primarily focuses on the determination of taste- and odor-causing compounds, disinfection byproducts, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These analyses rely heavily on GC-MS and LC-MS instrumentation, supported by rigorous maintenance programs to ensure continuous operational performance and data reliability.<h4>Regulatory Compliance and Quality Control in Drinking Water Analysis</h4>Operating as a regulated drinking water laboratory requires adherence to stringent requirements established by agencies such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and state-level regulatory bodies. Compliance is driven by extensive quality control protocols integrated into every analytical batch. Typical workflows include calibration verification, matrix spike recovery assessments, internal standard monitoring, and surrogate performance checks. Notably, analytical batches are often limited in sample number to accommodate a substantial proportion of quality control samples, reflecting the critical importance of data defensibility in regulatory reporting.One common misconception is the perceived speed at which results can be delivered. In reality, comprehensive sample preparation, including extraction procedures and validation steps, can extend turnaround times to a full working day or longer. Additionally, validated regulatory workflows impose limitations on the rapid adoption of new analytical technologies, as method modifications must undergo formal evaluation and approval before implementation.<h4>Analytical Strategies for Taste and Odor Investigations</h4>Taste and odor events represent a significant operational challenge for water utilities. Standard targeted methods are routinely applied for compounds such as 2-methylisoborneol (MIB) and geosmin, which are commonly associated with earthy or musty sensory characteristics. When targeted analysis does not reveal the source, laboratories employ broad-scan GC-MS screening combined with spectral library interpretation to identify potential causative compounds. In some cases, sensory evaluation panels complement instrumental analysis, providing preliminary insight into potential treatment-related or environmental influences affecting water quality.<h4>PFAS Monitoring: Methodological Complexity and Trace-Level Sensitivity</h4>PFAS determination represents a rapidly evolving priority in drinking water monitoring. The laboratory currently applies EPA Method 537.1, with efforts underway to expand capabilities through certification for Method 533, thereby broadening analyte coverage. Analytical workflows typically involve solid-phase extraction followed by solvent evaporation using nitrogen-assisted blow-down techniques to achieve the trace-level sensitivity required for regulatory compliance. This concentration step is essential because PFAS compounds remain non-volatile under controlled evaporation conditions, enabling enhanced detection performance upon reconstitution and LC-MS analysis.<h4>Future Directions in Drinking Water Analytics</h4>Looking ahead, the primary technological driver in regulated water analysis is the demand for increasingly lower detection limits and expanded compound coverage. While regulatory frameworks can slow methodological innovation, laboratories continue to pursue efficiency improvements, such as automated sample preparation systems and optimized analytical workflows. These advances support the growing need to process high sample volumes while maintaining the stringent data quality standards required for public health protection.Ultimately, the work performed in regulated drinking water laboratories represents a critical intersection of analytical chemistry, environmental monitoring, and public safety. Continuous methodological refinement, coupled with advances in mass spectrometry and sample preparation technologies, will play a central role in addressing emerging contaminants and ensuring long-term water quality assurance.<blockquote>This text has been automatically transcribed from a video presentation using AI technology. It may contain inaccuracies and is not guaranteed to be 100% correct.</blockquote><blockquote><h4>Concentrating on Chromatography Podcast</h4>Dive into the frontiers of chromatography, mass spectrometry, and sample preparation with host David Oliva. Each episode features candid conversations with leading researchers, industry innovators, and passionate scientists who are shaping the future of analytical chemistry. From decoding PFAS detection challenges to exploring the latest in AI-assisted liquid chromatography, this show uncovers practical workflows, sustainability breakthroughs, and the real-world impact of separation science. Whether you’re a chromatographer, lab professional, or researcher you'll discover inspiring content!You can find Concentrating on Chromatography Podcast in podcast apps:<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1wZg67rCjoGju4yhqxI3tL">Spotify</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://podcasts.apple.com/tz/podcast/concentrating-on-chromatography/id1788429185">Apple podcast</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://podscan.fm/podcasts/concentrating-on-chromatography">podscan</a></li></ul>and on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/@ChromatographyTalk/videos">YouTube channel</a></blockquote>

Regulated Drinking Water Testing: PFAS Detection, Sample Prep & Real Lab Insights

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.

UCT Prague

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

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Agilent Technologies

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Waters Corporation

Are you analyzing volatile analytes in a nonvolatile matrix? Would you like to avoid injecting dirty samples or nonvolatiles into your inlet? If so, headspace might be the right technique for you!
Join us as we go over the basics of headspace and how you can implement it successfully in the lab. We’ll discuss how to develop and optimize a method, and discuss troubleshooting if problems arise.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Mark Sinnott (Application Engineer, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Mark Sinnott works for Agilent Technologies as a Technical Support Engineer in the Consumables and Supplies Division (CSD). In his position at Agilent, Mark performs technical support and applications assistance to gas chromatographers worldwide. He has more than 22 years of experience in gas chromatography, including environmental analysis of compounds in air, soil and water matrices, including dissolved gas analysis for the electrical industry. Mark holds a Master’s Degree in Chemistry from California State University, Sacramento, and currently resides in Twin Falls Idaho.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Tips, Tricks, and Troubleshooting for Successful Headspace Analysis in GC

Tips, Tricks, and Troubleshooting for Successful Headspace Analysis in GC

We go over the basics of headspace and how you can implement it successfully in the lab.

GC Headspace Tips, Tricks, and Troubleshooting

PFAS in air is different! From the targets of interest to the sampling and measurement techniques, everything is new and emerging.
Join us for an in-depth exploration of airborne PFAS and its implications in various environments. In this exclusive live webinar, we’ll cover key topics including US EPA methods OTM45 and OTM-50, vapor intrusion, landfill gas monitoring, and the future of personal and occupational exposure monitoring.
Our PFAS experts will discuss the methods available for measuring airborne PFAS, highlighting current technologies and best practices. You&#39;ll gain insights into how these methods are applied in real-world scenarios, and what steps you can take to ensure accurate and reliable results.
Why attend?
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<li>Discover the latest advancements in airborne PFAS detection, including US EPA methods OTM-45 and OTM-50.
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<li>Understand how PFAS experts apply these measurement methods in practical scenarios like vapor intrusion and landfill gas monitoring, ensuring accurate results.
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<li>Learn how these emerging techniques are transforming environmental monitoring and how to mitigate risks.
</li>
<li>Get your pressing questions answered by our leading PFAS experts with strategies to manage and reduce airborne PFAS exposure in your industry.
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</ul>
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Presenter: Nathan Eklund
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<blockquote>
Nathan is a seasoned expert with 28 years of experience in environmental consulting and emerging contaminant science. As the PFAS Practice Leader at SGS EHS North America, he focuses on advancing the emerging contaminants and specialty analytical services sector, particularly PFAS. Nathan brings a customer-centric approach to solving complex problems, leveraging his extensive background in business development, sales management, process improvement, strategic planning, client management, data analysis, and risk analysis.
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<blockquote>
Presenter: Julia Roth
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Julia works closely with clients to develop optimized project solutions for vapor intrusion, industrial hygiene, fenceline monitoring, emissions, and specialty air projects. With extensive remediation consulting experience, she handles a wide range of typical and emerging contaminants across various media, including indoor air, soil vapor, sewer vapor, groundwater, soil, wastewater, leachate, landfill gas, and emissions. Her recent work has focused on PFAS volatility, resulting in several published papers and presentations. Julia holds a degree in Biological Systems Engineering from Virginia Tech, underscoring her strong technical foundation and commitment to advancing air quality and remediation practices.
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SGS: Clearing the Air: Understanding Airborne PFAS Exposure

Clearing the Air: Understanding Airborne PFAS Exposure

US EPA methods OTM45 and OTM-50, vapor intrusion, landfill gas monitoring, and the future of personal and occupational exposure monitoring.

Data management and manual transcription of critical process data remain one of the major challenges and potential sources of errors in the analytical laboratory.
As a lot of the laboratory processes evolve around sample preparation for HPLC or GC, with crucial weighing and preparative steps, this webinar aims to showcase some seamless data management and transfer solutions, from balance to LC. The LabX™ balance software and OpenLab CDS platform can enable various levels of integrated data management, while also improving productivity and offering a high degree of data integrity.
Join the METTLER TOLEDO and Agilent teams for a webinar to understand how you can support digitalized and scalable sample preparation processes for better chromatography results. 
Program Overview
<ul>
<li>Introduction to the digital lab
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<li>Improving analytical sample preparation workflows
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<li>Live demonstration of seamless data transfer options
</li>
<li>Q&amp;A with presenters
</li>
</ul>
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Presenter: Andrea Brütsch (Head Business Development Initiatives)
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<blockquote>
Presenter: Kevin Koelliker (Agilent Technologies, Application Engineer)
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Mettler Toledo: Automated Data Management for LC/GC Workflows

Automated Data Management for LC/GC Workflows

How can you support digitalized and scalable sample preparation processes for better chromatography results.

Join Agilent and GERSTEL for a 3-day live virtual seminar discussing how you can assure safety, authenticity, and quality of alcoholic beverages. The focus will be on sharing the latest in technology developments and capabilities, new applications, and customer stories.<h4>Presentation 1: Use of FTIR Technology for the Analysis of Sugars and Sweeteners in the Production of Alcoholic Beverages</h4><ul><li>Rogelio García Juárez, Pre-Sales Application Engineer – Agilent Technologies</li></ul>Currently, fast, and accurate methods are required for the analysis of raw materials and various sources to produce alcoholic beverages, for the rapid identification and quantification of these materials, let's review FTIR technology for process controls, as the ideal alternative to other techniques such as HPLC.<h5>Key Learning Objectives/What attendees will learn:</h5>1. The use of Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Technology in applications for the alcoholic beverage industry.2. Analysis for the identification and release of raw materials used in preparation of Spirits.3. Quick methods to determine the concentration of sugars and sweeteners for process control.<h5>Who Should Attend:</h5><ul><li>Producers of alcoholic beverages, distillates, prepared liqueurs, juices, and extracts.</li></ul><h4>Presentation 2: GC-MS Techniques for the Determination of 2-Methylisoborneol and Geosmin in Finished Whiskey</h4><ul><li>Nicole Kfoury, Applications Scientist, GERSTEL,Inc.</li></ul>2-Methylisoborneol (MIB) and geosmin are naturally occurring metabolites formed by bacteria and fungi, most often in surface water sources. They have musty/earthy odors and very low odor thresholds, meaning they can be smelled at concentrations of 1-10 ppt in water. As a result, products, such as whiskey, that use contaminated water in the process may have musty, earthy odors in the finished product. Due to the complexity of the whiskey matrix and the low odor threshold of MIB and geosmin, they can be challenging to quantify accurately. This work shows that a selectable, heartcutting 1D/2D-GC-MSD is required to accurately quantify MIB and geosmin in finished whiskey. &nbsp;<h5>Key Learning Objectives/What attendees will learn:</h5>1. Overview of solid phase microextraction (SPME) versus stir bar sorptive extraction (SBSE).2. Overview of multidimensional, heartcutting GC-MS.3. How to accurately measure the concentration of 2-methylisoborneol and geosmin in complex samples such as whiskey.<h5>Who Should Attend:</h5><ul><li>Analytical chemists in the food, flavor, fragrance, and beverage industries.</li></ul><blockquote>Presnter: Rogelio García Juárez (Pre-Sales Application Engineer, Agilent Technologies)Rogelio García is an Applications Engineer for Molecular Spectroscopy in UV-Vis, FTIR, and Raman techniques at Agilent México and Latin America. Rogelio has a Bachelor’s Degree in Pharmaceutical Chemistry and a Master´s Degree in Environmental Engineering. He has worked in several developments of methods and applications in water, soil, and air, as well as in method design for the Pharmaceutical and Food industry. In this last one, he has developed an outstanding application method for alcoholic beverages such as Tequila using FTIR technology.Presnter:&nbsp;Nicole Kfoury, Ph.D. (Applications Scientist, GERSTEL, Inc.)Dr. Nicole Kfoury is an Applications Scientist at GERSTEL, Inc. in Baltimore, MD. She joined GERSTEL after receiving her Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry at Tufts University and working as a Research Scientist at the Tufts University Sensory and Science Center. She is responsible for developing methods for sample preparation and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and creating a Sensory Directed Analysis program at GERSTEL. She teaches customer training, supports pre- and post-sales opportunities, and provides analytical support to customers in a wide array of industries including food, flavor, fragrance, forensic, environmental, and chemical industries.</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Alcoholic Beverages Virtual Symposium: Spirits

Alcoholic Beverages Virtual Symposium: Spirits

How you can assure safety, authenticity, and quality of alcoholic beverages.

Join Agilent and GERSTEL for a 3-day live virtual seminar discussing how you can assure safety, authenticity, and quality of alcoholic beverages. The focus will be on sharing the latest in technology developments and capabilities, new applications, and customer stories.<h4>Presentation 1: Comparison of Headspace GC-MS Techniques to Characterize Volatile Phenols contributing to Smoke Taint in Pinot Noir Wines</h4><ul><li>Stephen Toth, GCMS Specialist in the Structure Elucidation Department – International Flavors &amp; Fragrances (IFF)</li></ul>A series of volatile phenols originating from smoke tainted grapes exposed to regional fires have been known to exhibit undesirable sensory characteristics such as smoky, burnt, ashy and medicinal flavoring in affected wines. This can be negatively perceived by consumers and often leads to an aftertaste of these characteristics lingering in the mouth after the wine has been swallowed. Wildfires plagued the counties in northern California and Oregon during the 2020 wildfire season from August through October. These fires severely impacted the grape harvest and challenged wine makers as many of their vineyards were either destroyed or their crops were contaminated with smoke taint. Numerous wineries opted to release limited amounts of 2020 Pinot Noir for this reason or produce rosé or white wines from affected grapes. Our research will look specifically at three different vintages (2019, 2020 and 2021) of Pinot Noir from the same vineyard in the Willamette Valley region of Oregon. It should be noted that “smoke” as an indicator of taste in wines is not always an indicator of smoke taint but can also be imparted into the wine by aging in oak barrels.We will compare headspace based GCMS techniques to characterize these wines and profile the volatile phenol content. Solid phase micro extraction (SPME) and stir bar sorptive extraction (SBSE) will be used to analyze both free volatile content and gylcosidically bound phenolic content. The free volatiles will be acquired in unaltered wine to best represent the consumer’s initial experience. These samples will then experience a pH adjustment, sonication and heat treatment to release gylcosidically bound phenolic compounds which could potentially be released over time by aging the wine.Our research will characterize the phenolic compounds contributing to the smoke taint odor and flavor present in the Pinot Noirs against the sugar bound compounds that can potentially release over the shelf life of the wine utilizing SPME and SBSE extraction methods. Additionally, the comparison of vintages will indicate whether the phenolic characteristics obtained by GCMS can be used to capture the smoke defect in the wine profile from 2020.<h5>Key Learning Objectives/What attendees will learn:</h5>1. Theory and applicability of SHS, SPME, SBSE, TF-SPME, DHS, and pyrolysis.2. How to decide on the most optimal extraction technique based on research challenges.<h4>Presentation 2: An Exploration of Phenolics in Red Wines: Chemical and Sensory Effects of Selected Winemaking Techniques</h4><ul><li>Dr. L. Federico Casassa, Associate Professor, Enology, Cal Poly</li></ul>This presentation discusses how the winemaker can manage winemaking elements – those over which we have control – to develop, evolve and enhance mouthfeel, with focus on phenolic compounds in grapes and wines from the Central Coast of California. The discussion then covers which elements can be leveraged and managed during the production of the wine. There are known protocols for grapes, yeast, fermentation, and aging. However, the challenge for the winemaker is to understand how our various treatments affect the end product. This presentation covers the effects of fermentation temperatures, cold soaking and how the manipulations of these elements can be used to modulate astringency and mouthfeel in the wines.<blockquote>Presenter: Stephen Toth (GCMS specialist in the Structure Elucidation Department, International Flavors &amp; Fragrances (IFF))Stephen Toth is a GCMS specialist in the Structure Elucidation Department at International Flavors &amp; Fragrances (IFF) in Union Beach, NJ. He has spent his lengthy career at IFF working in fragrance delivery, chromatography and ultimately in the mass spectrometry group where part of his role is scouting out new technologies. He is very active in the Agricultural and Food Chemistry Division of the American Chemical Society and currently serves as the treasurer and executive board member. He has edited multiple books and has organized several analytical and flavor chemistry symposia at national meetings. He also serves as a graduate student mentor for the division. He holds a B.S. and M.S in chemistry from Seton Hall University and a Ph.D in food science from Rutgers University.Presenter:&nbsp;Dr. L. Federico Casassa (Associate Professor, Enology, Cal Poly)Dr. Casassa’s research focus lies on the broad areas of grape and wine chemistry and biochemistry and their sensory implications, with especial emphasis on applied research. He has been involved in research projects focusing on the impact of irrigation techniques, especially Regulated Deficit Irrigation. Current and ongoing research projects include studies on the extraction of phenolics of sensory relevance during the course of different maceration techniques in red wines, coupled with other regulating factors and their sensory impact as evaluated by formal sensory evaluation techniques.</blockquote>

Aglient Technologies: Alcoholic Beverages Virtual Symposium: Wine

Alcoholic Beverages Virtual Symposium: Wine

Routine analysis and reporting of volatile and semivolatile organic compounds (VOCs and SVOCs) in environmental samples is well established, defined and standardized by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other organizations. However, cutting-edge GC-MS technology is redefining laboratories’ performance for environmental analysis, whether using single or triple quadrupole mass spectrometry.Yoshiro Hiramatsu, GC-MS Product Liaison and Dr. Ruth Marfil-Vega, Senior Market Manager, Shimadzu Scientific Instruments, will explore how Shimadzu’s latest GC-MS instruments, in combination with the multi-platform software LabSolutions and LabSolutions Insight, enable successful detection, quantitation, and suspect screening of VOCs and SVOCs. Plus, discover how these tools support EPA methods, from initial sample analysis to final data reporting.<h4>Key learning objectives</h4><ul><li>Learn how to boost throughput with the use of an enhanced tuning algorithm, faster data acquisition, and other novel GC-MS designs for prolonged stability and shorter analysis time</li><li>Find out how to effectively mitigate human error, minimize rework, and reduce operational costs with advanced GC-MS technology to simplify maintenance and routine analysis</li><li>Discover how to streamline data processing and reporting through AI-assisted data integration for EPA and other environmental methods</li></ul><h4>Who should attend?</h4><ul><li>Lab managers</li><li>Environmental analytical chemists</li><li>Water quality professionals</li><li>GC-MS users</li><li>Environmental analysts</li><li>Environmental laboratory managers</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Yoshiro Hiramatsu (GCMS Product Liaison, Shimadzu Scientific Instruments)Yoshiro Hiramatsu has been working in GC-MS engineering for over 12 years in Japan and the US. He majored in magnetic physics at Kyoto University and joined Shimadzu after graduation. He has played a pivotal role in engineering new MS technologies aimed at enhancing GC-MS technology. After relocating to the US, he shifted his focus to application development, with a particular emphasis on the environmental market. By leveraging the latest advancements in GC-MS technology, he has been driving innovations that address critical environmental challenges.Presenter:&nbsp;Dr. Ruth Marfil-Vega (Senior Market Manager , Shimadzu Scientific Instruments)Dr. Ruth Marfil-Vega has 20 years of expertise in environmental chemistry and engineering in the US and Europe. She has worked with the EPA and the utilities industry to design and execute comprehensive solutions for addressing new environmental and water quality issues. At Shimadzu, she works with environmental stakeholders to make sure that analytical instrumentation and workflows support their success. She has a a BSc in Chemistry from the University of Valladolid, Spain, and a PhD in Environmental Science and Engineering from the University of Cincinnati.Presenter:&nbsp;Carrie Haslam (Associate Editor, SelectScience)</blockquote>

SelectScience: Redefine Volatile and Semivolatile Organic Compounds Analysis by GC-MS, from Start to Finish

Redefine Volatile and Semivolatile Organic Compounds Analysis by GC-MS, from Start to Finish;

How Shimadzu’s latest GC-MS instruments enable successful detection, quantitation, and suspect screening of VOCs and SVOCs.

Redefine Volatile and Semivolatile Organic Compounds

The presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in food supply chains is a growing concern due to their environmental persistence and potential health risks.As awareness increases, the demand for effective regulations and advanced analytical methods for detecting PFAS in food is critical. In this webinar hosted by Agilent in association with AOAC India Section, we will explore the current PFAS contamination landscape, regulatory frameworks, and the latest analytical solutions.The session will cover PFAS characteristics and the challenges they present to food safety. We will examine global and regional regulations, with a focus on evolving standards in India and the South Asia Pacific region. Also, the webinar will highlight advanced analytical approaches for different food matrices like seafood, eggs, meat, infant formula, packaging material, including sample preparation, instrumentation, and reporting essential for effective PFAS detection. Agilent's robust LC/MS and GC/MS PFAS testing solutions will be showcased along with the Captiva EMR sample preparation kit, demonstrating how they can help food manufacturers, exporters, and regulatory bodies ensure compliance with global standards.<h4>Learning outcomes:</h4><ul><li>Comprehensive understanding of PFAS characteristics and the regulatory landscape across global and regional markets, including India and the South Asia Pacific.</li><li>Advanced analytical techniques for PFAS detection in food, covering sample preparation, instrumentation, and reporting methodologies.</li><li>Practical insights into implementing PFAS testing solutions to ensure compliance with international food safety standards.</li></ul><h4>Who should attend:</h4><ul><li>Food scientists, analytical chemists, regulatory authorities, government lab personnel, industry professionals in food manufacturing, packaging, exporting, R&amp;D scientists, toxicologists, QA/QC analysts and managers, academicians, and researchers focused on PFAS analysis and food safety.</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Dr. Nick Birse (Lecturer, School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK)Nick Birse is a Lecturer in Mass Spectrometry at Queen’s University Belfast, where he focuses on the use of mass spectrometry to solve key food integrity challenges, such as the measurement of chemical contaminants and natural toxins, fingerprinting foods to determine geographic origin and help detect fraud, or simply to measure key quality, flavour and taste attributes, all of which makes foods tastier, healthier and safer for consumers. Nick previously served as a Research Fellow within Prof Chris Elliott’s research group, assisting in the execution of Chris’s 2021 Agilent Thought Leader Award. He holds a PhD in Analytical Chemistry from Queen’s University Belfast.Presenter:&nbsp;Dr. Niladri Sekhar Chatterjee (Senior Scientist and DST Inspire Fellow, ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology, India)Dr. Niladri has more than 10 years of experience in precision measurement of small molecules in food, biological, and environmental matrices. His doctoral research is on pesticide metabolism, and environmental fate in crop, soil, and water. His postdoctoral research is on seafood authentication using high resolution mass spectrometry-based metabolomics and molecular spectroscopy fingerprinting. He currently works as a Senior Scientist in the Biochemistry and Nutrition Division at ICAR Central Institute of Fisheries in Kochi. At CIFT, he has been instrumental in establishing a state-of-the-art analytical chemistry laboratory from scratch which is today one of the National Reference Laboratories. He has received external grants from the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB) India, National Agricultural Science Fund, and FSSAI. In the NRL, he has developed and validated precision measurement methods for multiclass analysis of pesticides, antibiotic residues, and endocrine disruptors and is actively managing the ISO 17025 accreditation of the laboratory. His research work has resulted in several peer reviewed publications.Presenter:&nbsp;Dr. Lorna De-Leoz (Global Food Segment Director, Agilent Technologies, USA)Lorna De Leoz has nearly 20 years of experience in the food industry. As the Global Food Segment Director, she collaborates with scientists to help develop accurate and reliable testing for food safety, quality, and authenticity. Lorna worked at the National Institute of Standards and Technology in the Mass Spectrometry Data Center for seven years. She completed her Ph.D. in Chemistry at University of California, Davis on milk oligosaccharides and glycan biomarkers analyses.</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: PFAS in Food Supply Chains: Regulations and Analytical Approaches: in association with AOAC India Section

PFAS in Food Supply Chains: Regulations and Analytical Approaches: in association with AOAC India Section

PFAS characteristics and the challenges they present to food safety.

PFAS in Food Supply Chains: Regulations and Analytical

We are excited to bring you a three-part Ask Me Anything webinar series on one of the topics you ask about most – processing data. Empower Software allows you to use two different peak detection algorithms, Traditional and ApexTrack. What are the differences between these algorithms and when might you use one versus the other? Given all the choices on the Integration tab of the Processing Method, how do you set these important parameters to ensure accurate peak integration? &nbsp;In the first part of this webinar series, we will explore the algorithms and learn how to set the parameters in a logical fashion. We will discuss:<ul><li>How both algorithms work</li><li>Starting with peak width and threshold first</li><li>Interactively setting timed events in the chromatogram</li><li>Practical examples</li><li>Empower System Policies that impact your peak detection and integration</li></ul>Please join us for a lively discussion as we explore this topic. As always, please bring your questions for this exclusive opportunity to ask our experts anything about Empower Software.<blockquote>Presenter: Neil Lander (Principal Product Manager, Informatics, Waters Corporation)Neil has worked for Waters Corporation since 1994 and has held a variety of positions including Technical Support Specialist, Technical Trainer, Manager Customer Education and currently, Principal Marketing Manager focusing on Informatics solutions. He provides internal support for Empower Chromatography Data System and is focused on developing laboratory software solutions that help organizations achieve their scientific and operational objectives. Prior to joining Waters, he was an analytical chemist where he gained experience in both the cosmetics and specialty chemical industries.</blockquote>

Waters Corporation: Empower Tips: Ask Me Anything About Processing Data - Part 1

Empower Tips: Ask Me Anything About Processing Data - Part 1

We will explore the algorithms and learn how to set the parameters in a logical fashion.

Empower Tips: Ask Me Anything About Processing Data

<h4>The Waters 2024 Virtual Summer School - An Educational Journey to Master Food &amp; Environmental Analysis</h4>Unlock the full potential of LC-MS techniques with our immersive and educational sessions at the Waters Virtual F&amp;E Late Summer School 2024. From September 24th to 26th, engage with leading experts and discover cutting-edge methods for environmental and food analysis.<h5>Why attend?</h5><ul><li>Comprehensive Learning: Dive deep into advanced LC-MS techniques and gain practical knowledge to enhance your laboratory's analytical capabilities.</li><li>Expert Insights: Learn from industry leaders and gain firsthand experience through detailed modules on chromatography, mass spectrometry, and sample preparation.</li><li>Regulatory Compliance: Stay ahead with the latest insights on EU regulations for PFAS analysis in food and water, ensuring your lab meets stringent standards.</li></ul><h3>Episode #4: Chromatography - APGC | F&amp;E Summer School - Day 1 - Module 4</h3>Discover the advantages of GC coupled to MS under atmospheric pressure (Atmospheric Pressure GC/ APGC) as a powerful alternative to electron ionization (EI) for GC-MS. Gain a comprehensive understanding of the APGC technology and its operational principles. Explore why APGC offers higher sensitivity, selectivity, and robustness compared to traditional EI methods. Maximize versatility and efficiency by understanding how to achieve both LC and GC capabilities on the same MS system as well as using nitrogen as an alternative carrier gas.<h5>What you'll learn:</h5><ul><li>How APGC works</li><li>Enhanced performance over classic EI-GC</li><li>Ease of use and implementation in the lab</li><li>Usage of nitrogen as GC carrier gas</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter:&nbsp;Frank L. Dorman, PhD, FRSC (Principal Environmental Market Manager, Waters Corporation)Frank Dorman is currently Senior Business Development Manager for Waters focusing on their global environmental business and, concurrently, Associate Professor (adjunct) in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (BMB) at Penn State University in University Park, PA. In his role at Waters, Frank manages the research-focused environmental market, external collaborations and also interfaces with R&amp;D for new product development. Prior to Waters, Frank was employed full-time as a tenure-line Faculty member of Penn State and served as a member of the Graduate Faculty in: Biochemistry, Microbiology and Molecular Biology (BMMB), Chemistry (CHEM) and the Programs in Forensics Science (FRNSC), and Biogeochemistry (BGC). Frank is also a member of the Center for Molecular Toxicology and Carcinogenesis at Penn State. Frank’s scientific interests are in gas and liquid chromatography fundamental characterization, instrumentation and column development, as well and mass spectrometry and atomic spectroscopy as applied to trace analysis in complex sample matrices. This work is directed towards environmental forensics, traditional forensic chemistry and where environmental exposure events may contribute to human disease; an area sometimes referred to as “exposomics”.Prior to joining the faculty at PSU, Frank was at Restek Corporation for 14 years as the Director of Technical Development, and R&amp;D Senior Chemist. During most of this same time, Frank was also an Adjunct Research Professor at Juniata College where he maintained an active undergraduate research program. Prior to that he was at Inchcape Testing Services for 5 years as a Senior Chemist, Organics Section Manager for Sample Preparation and Corporate Methods Development Chemist. As such, Frank has extensive experience in both the Industrial and Academic sectors giving him a relatively rare combination of skills and experience.Presenter:&nbsp;Janitha De-Alwis (Senior Applications Chemist, European Applications Team, Food and Environmental, Waters Corporation)JD has worked in the chromatography industry for over 10 years and has recently joined Waters Corporation as a senior applications chemist. Prior to joining Waters, JD managed a group at a leading food research and contract organisation. Here, JD helped the food, drink and associated industriesproactivelyand reactively in the area of chemical toxins.As a senior applications chemist, JD now develops new applications with Waters technologies and helps customers with their critical analytical challenges.</blockquote>

Waters Corporation: The Waters 2024 Virtual Summer School

Chromatography - APGC

Discover the advantages of GC coupled to MS under atmospheric pressure (APGC) as a powerful alternative to electron ionization (EI) for GC-MS.

<h4>The Waters 2024 Virtual Summer School - An Educational Journey to Master Food &amp; Environmental Analysis</h4>Unlock the full potential of LC-MS techniques with our immersive and educational sessions at the Waters Virtual F&amp;E Late Summer School 2024. From September 24th to 26th, engage with leading experts and discover cutting-edge methods for environmental and food analysis.<h5>Why attend?</h5><ul><li>Comprehensive Learning: Dive deep into advanced LC-MS techniques and gain practical knowledge to enhance your laboratory's analytical capabilities.</li><li>Expert Insights: Learn from industry leaders and gain firsthand experience through detailed modules on chromatography, mass spectrometry, and sample preparation.</li><li>Regulatory Compliance: Stay ahead with the latest insights on EU regulations for PFAS analysis in food and water, ensuring your lab meets stringent standards.</li></ul><h3>Episode #5: General Sample Preparation | F&amp;E Summer School - Day 2 - Module 1</h3>Sample preparation is a key aspect in the analytical workflow and heavily determines the quality of the analysis. Solid Phase Extraction is a fundamental sample preparation technique widely used across all areas of analytical chemistry. Whether new to SPE or seeking a refresher, this webinar will introduce the basics of sample preparation and provide practical insights and technical background on the benefits when choosing SPE over another form of sample preparation, especially for analytes in complex matrices, such as the ones often encountered in Food and Environmental analysis. Join us in exploring SPE key parameters and best practices for implementing successful SPE methods. The session will combine PowerPoint slides with videos describing good practices and showing a practical example on the complex analysis of PFAS.Our guest speaker Chiara Sarti from Cranfield University, Bedford UK, will share her research results on the work with new dual layer cartridges to extract PFAS from different environmental samples.<h5>What you'll learn:</h5><ul><li>Understanding SPE fundamentals</li><li>Making SPE simple with water-wettable sorbents</li><li>Verifying successful SPE implementation</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter:&nbsp;Xavier Rodríguez (Business Development Manager Chemistry Group, Southern Europe, Waters)Xavier is part of the European Market Development Team. He works as an Application Specialist with focus on sample prep and has more than 20 years of experience in solving sample prep challenges.Presenter:&nbsp;Chiara Sarti (Ph.D. Student, Department of Chemistry "Ugo Schiff", University of Florence)</blockquote>

General Sample Preparation

Join us in exploring SPE key parameters and best practices for implementing successful SPE methods. 