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

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

News from LabRulezGCMS Library - Week 06, 2026

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

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

Article

Application

Scientists

Science and research

Video

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

UCT Prague

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

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

Everything from the world of analytical chemistry in one place. We connect people in solving their problems. At Labrulez you will find all the necessary information easily, quickly and clearly. Stop searching and start finding.

LabRulez

GERSTEL

Phenomenex

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Restek Corporation

Waters Corporation

<p><strong>Who Should Attend:</strong></p>
<p>Anyone new to SPE who wants to get familiar with the basics of SPE method development.<br/>Anyone who has a basic understanding of SPE and would like to learn how to improve their extractions. </p>
<p><strong>Key Learning Points:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Understand how to develop SPE methods from start to finish.</li>
<li>Receive general methods to use as starting points.</li>
<li>Learn when and how to optimize SPE methods, and discover new tips and tricks to make SPE method development easier.</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Koen Askamp (Technical Specialist, Phenomenex)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Koen Askamp is a Technical Specialist at Phenomenex. He was awarded his BSc and MSc degrees in Molecular Life Sciences at Wageningen University in the Netherlands and joined Phenomenex in 2020 as Technical Sales Consultant. Koen became part of Phenomenex’s global technical support team in 2022 and assists laboratories in training chromatographers and developing analytical methods. </p>
</blockquote>


Phenomenex: Solid Phase Extraction Method Development

Solid Phase Extraction Method Development

Learn when and how to optimize SPE methods, and discover new tips and tricks to make SPE method development easier.

<h4><strong>The Waters 2024 Virtual Summer School - An Educational Journey to Master Food &amp; Environmental Analysis</strong></h4><p>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.</p><h5><strong>Why attend?</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Comprehensive Learning:</strong> Dive deep into advanced LC-MS techniques and gain practical knowledge to enhance your laboratory's analytical capabilities.</li><li><strong>Expert Insights:</strong> Learn from industry leaders and gain firsthand experience through detailed modules on chromatography, mass spectrometry, and sample preparation.</li><li><strong>Regulatory Compliance:</strong> 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><strong>Episode #5: General Sample Preparation | F&amp;E Summer School - Day 2 - Module 1</strong></h3><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><h5><strong>What you'll learn:</strong></h5><ul><li>Understanding SPE fundamentals</li><li>Making SPE simple with water-wettable sorbents</li><li>Verifying successful SPE implementation</li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter:&nbsp;</strong>Xavier Rodríguez (Business Development Manager Chemistry Group, Southern Europe, Waters)</p><p>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.</p><p><strong>Presenter:&nbsp;</strong>Chiara Sarti (Ph.D. Student, Department of Chemistry "Ugo Schiff", University of Florence)</p></blockquote>

Waters Corporation: The Waters 2024 Virtual Summer School

General Sample Preparation

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

<h4><strong>The Waters 2024 Virtual Summer School - An Educational Journey to Master Food &amp; Environmental Analysis</strong></h4><p>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.</p><h5><strong>Why attend?</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Comprehensive Learning:</strong> Dive deep into advanced LC-MS techniques and gain practical knowledge to enhance your laboratory's analytical capabilities.</li><li><strong>Expert Insights:</strong> Learn from industry leaders and gain firsthand experience through detailed modules on chromatography, mass spectrometry, and sample preparation.</li><li><strong>Regulatory Compliance:</strong> 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><strong>Episode #6: Automated Sample Preparation | F&amp;E Summer School - Day 2 - Module 2</strong></h3><p>This Module builds on the previous one by adding automation to the sample preparation methods. The Andrew+™ pipetting robot offers fully automated liquid handling using electronic pipettes and labware holders called Dominos for a full walk-away automation solution.</p><p>Creating the connected laboratory, Andrew+ is part of the OneLab™ ecosystem, executing laboratory protocols designed in OneLab software. This flexible architecture enables you to effortlessly transition from laborious manual pipetting procedures to error-free, fully-robotized lab workflows – without any knowledge of programming, laboratory robotics or automation engineering. and explains processes the Andrew+ pipetting robot can take over in your lab.</p><p>The European Union has adopted Commission Recommendation (EU) 2022/1431 to monitor PFAS in fruits, vegetables, milk and baby food. To achieve quantification at lowest levels of PFAS in food matrices, sample preparation is required which comprise of many pipetting steps and can be time-consuming and error prone. We will demonstrate an automate workflow for the analysis of PFAS in milk using a pipetting robot and stacked dual-phase SPE cartridges to meet EU 2022/1431 levels.</p><h5><strong>What you'll learn:</strong></h5><p>Possibilities to automat liquid handling processes in LC and LC-MS e.g.</p><ul><li>Serial dilution</li><li>Calibration curve</li><li>Solid Phase Extraction (SPE)</li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter:&nbsp;</strong>Xavier Rodríguez (Business Development Manager Chemistry Group, Southern Europe, Waters)</p><p>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.</p><p><strong>Presenter:&nbsp;</strong>Daniel Ng PhD (Principal Scientist, Waters Corporation)</p><p>Daniel Ng received his PhD from the University of Manchester in mass spectrometry proteomics. He worked for 5 years at the Waters mass spectrometry headquarters in Wilmslow, UK, as a service support development engineer specializing in mass spectrometry instrumentation. In 2019, he took up a new role as a principal scientist at the International Food and Water Research Centre (Waters) in Singapore focusing on using advanced instrumentation to answer analytical challenges in the food and water industry. Since 2023, Daniel has lead the Food, Environmental and Material Science Analytical Professional Service team in the Asia-Pacific Region, developing analytical solutions to meet key challenges that customers face.</p></blockquote>

Automated Sample Preparation

The Andrew+™ pipetting robot offers fully automated liquid handling using electronic pipettes and labware holders.

<h4>Key Learning Points:</h4><ul><li><strong>Identify the common challenges associated with solid phase extraction methods</strong><br>&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Understand and troubleshoot the recovery, contamination and reproducibility issues</strong><br>&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Learn how to find and apply solutions to develop robust and reproducible extraction methods for their sample preparation needs</strong></li></ul><h4>Who Should Attend:</h4><ul><li>Any scientists who wants to learn about solid phase extraction and it’s associated challenges, common troubleshooting steps and solutions to develop robust and reproducible extraction methods for their sample preparation needs</li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>Presnter: </strong>Namrata Saxena (Technical Manager, Phenomenex)</p><p>Namrata is the Technical Manager for the Asia-Pacific region in Phenomenex and is based in Sydney, Australia. As a member of the global technical team, she is responsible for assisting external customers as well as internal marketing and sales teams of Phenomenex for multifarious technical queries. She specifically support company’s bio-products portfolio through external and internal seminars/webinars, trainings and also contribute in biologics related technical content creation.</p><p>Before joining Phenomenex she had worked as a Product Specialist and spent several years in stationary phase chemistry, column manufacturing and method development groups in a German company Bischoff Chromatography GmbH.</p><p>Namrata has a post graduate degree with specialization in Analytical Chemistry. Her competence and focus lies in biotherapeutics characterization through liquid chromatography, antibodies and oligonucleotide chemistry, gene therapy and new bio-therapeutic modalities.</p></blockquote>

Phenomenex: Solid Phase Extraction Troubleshooting Tips and Tricks

Solid Phase Extraction Troubleshooting Tips and Tricks

Identify the common challenges associated with solid phase extraction methods.

<p><strong>Join this live webinar to learn how sample preparation in combination with the right glass quality and a GC-MS/MS analysis allows you to reach factor 1000 lower detection limits for PAH in smoke flavored food samples to meet latest regulatory updates.</strong></p><p>The European Commission asked the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) to develop updated consolidated guidance for submission of applications on smoke flavoring primary products under Regulations (EC) No 2065/2003 and No 1321/2013. To reach the requested low detection limits for PAH, it is important to find the right workflow including consumables and an advanced EI source for GC-MS/MS analysis.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>In this webinar, we will talk you through the workflow and show real food samples with the focus on the analysis of 40 PAH. The key analytical benefits of the workflow include:</strong></p><ul><li id="isPasted">Complete SPE workflow</li><li id="isPasted">Glass quality that provides the right results for low concentrations</li><li id="isPasted">Ultra low detection limits with Advanced-EI technology on a GC-MS/MS</li></ul><p>At the end of the webinar, we have time to answer your questions.</p><p>If you are unable to attend on March 20, please register to ensure you will receive the link to the recording.</p><p>We are running this webinar on March 25 in German language. <a style="user-select:auto;" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/4835418/2EEB616DFE5F57C6587BA5984198FE55?partnerref=E.25CMD.EL105.26221.01" fr-original-style="">Click here is you want to sign up for the German session »&nbsp;</a></p><p style="line-height:normal;" id="isPasted"><strong fr-original-style="">Additional Webinars</strong></p><p style="line-height:normal;">Take advantage of our growing library of convenient and educational recorded webinars and resources. <a style="user-select:auto;" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/uk/en/home/about-us/events/industrial/analytical-innovations-webinars.html?cid=E.25CMD.EL105.26221.01" fr-original-style=""><strong fr-original-style="">Visit our webinars page</strong></a></p><blockquote><p style="line-height:normal;"><strong>Presenter: </strong>Petra Gerhards (Regional Marketing Manager EMEA GC&amp;GC-MS and Trace Elemental Analysis, Thermo Fisher Scientific)</p><div><p>Petra Gerhards is a Regional Marketing Manager of GC and GC-MS at Thermo Fisher Scientific. She has more than 29 years of experience in the fields of GC-MS, SPE and LC-MS. Since joining the regional team, she has contributed to workflow solutions combining vials and closures with SPE solutions, GC-MS and LC-MS.</p></div></blockquote>

Thermo Fisher Scientific: Advanced workflow for PAH analysis of smoke flavored foods 

Advanced workflow for PAH analysis of smoke flavored foods

Join this webinar to learn how sample prep, glass quality, and GC-MS/MS achieve 1000x lower PAH detection in smoke-flavored foods to meet new regulations.

<h4><strong>Key Learning Points</strong></h4><ul><li>Understand recovery and reproducibility in the context of Solid Phase Extraction</li><li>Discover the causes of commonly encountered Solid Phase Extraction problems</li><li>Learn how to successfully troubleshoot a Solid Phase Extraction problem quickly and efficiently</li></ul><h4><strong>Who Should Attend</strong></h4><ul><li>Any scientist who is interested in improving their SPE extraction method recovery and reproducibility.</li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>Speaker: </strong>Kevin Zhao (Sr. Technical Specialist, Phenomenex)</p><p>Kevin Zhao has 5 years of experience in biochemistry research, 4 years of Protein/Cancer research with the CSULA-City of Hope Cancer Collaborative, and over 12 years with Phenomenex. Mr. Zhao is a member of a global Technical Support Team, providing problem-solving, troubleshooting, and application assistance for customers worldwide in the fields of chromatography (liquid and gas) and sample preparation. The industries he supports include pharmaceuticals, biopharmaceuticals, clinical research and toxicology, food safety, environmental analysis, fuels, and specialty chemicals.</p><p>Mr. Zhao received his B.S. in Biology from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, his M.S. in Biochemistry from California State University, Los Angeles, and an MBA from the University of the Incarnate Word.</p></blockquote>

Phenomenex: SPE Troubleshooting: Unlock Maximum Recovery with Expert Tips!

SPE Troubleshooting: Unlock Maximum Recovery with Expert Tips!

Learn how to successfully troubleshoot a Solid Phase Extraction problem quickly and efficiently

SPE Troubleshooting: Unlock Maximum Recovery with Expert

<h4><strong>Key Learning Points</strong></h4><ul><li>Learn how to select the ideal SPE sorbent based on your analytes and impurities.</li><li>Review different SPE separation modes, and SPE stationary phases.</li><li>Walk through step-by-step sorbent selection examples.</li></ul><h4><strong>Who Should Attend</strong></h4><ul><li>Anyone new to SPE who wants to get familiar with SPE retention mechanisms.</li><li>Anyone who has a basic understanding of SPE and would like to explore sorbent options.&nbsp;</li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>Speaker: </strong>Koen Askamp (Technical Specialist, Phenomenex)</p><p>Koen Askamp is a Technical Specialist in Phenomenex. He was awarded his BSc and MSc degrees in Molecular Life Sciences at Wageningen University in the Netherlands and joined Phenomenex in 2020 as Technical Sales Consultant. Koen became part of Phenomenex’s global technical support team in 2022 and assists laboratories in training chromatographers and developing analytical methods.</p></blockquote>

Phenomenex: SPE Sorbent Quest: Discovering the Ideal Solution

SPE Sorbent Quest: Discovering the Ideal Solution

Learn how to select the ideal SPE sorbent based on your analytes and impurities.

<p><strong>Join us on Wednesday, July 30, 2 p.m. EST, for a session on how automation is revolutionizing solid phase extraction (SPE) workflows across diverse analytical applications.</strong></p><h5><strong>Featured Talks:</strong></h5><ul><li>"Optimizing SPE Sample Preparation: Automation Strategies for Diverse Sample Volumes and Matrices" – Sebastian Wierer, Product Manager Robotics, LCTech GmbH</li><li>"Automating Solid Phase Extraction Methods: From Fields to Pharmacy" – Fred Foster, Applications Scientist, GERSTEL, Inc.</li></ul><h5><strong>Topics include:</strong></h5><ul><li>Chloramphenicol in honey</li><li>Psilocin in serum and urine</li><li>PPCPs &amp; 6-PPDQ in water samples</li><li>Acidic pesticides in potable water</li><li>Drugs of abuse in blood</li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Fred Foster (Applications Scientist, GERSTEL, Inc.)</p><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Sebastian Wierer (Produt Manager Robotics, R&amp;D, LCTech GmbH)</p></blockquote>

GERSTEL: Smart Sample Preparation: Automated SPE for All Areas of Analytical Chemistry

Smart Sample Preparation: Automated SPE for All Areas of Analytical Chemistry

Join us for a session on how automation is revolutionizing solid phase extraction (SPE) workflows across diverse analytical applications.

Smart Sample Preparation - Automated SPE

<p><strong>When analyzing complex soil and water samples for organochlorine pesticides, coextracted matrix components can contaminate the inlet and column, forcing analysts to take instruments offline for time-consuming, unplanned maintenance. Effective sample extract cleanup is the key to keeping your instruments running and generating accurate, reliable data.&nbsp;</strong></p><p><strong>Pass-through SPE using Florisil cartridges </strong>(e.g., EPA Method 3620) is a common cleanup technique, but Resprep FL + CarboPrep Plus SPE cartridges (Resprep FL+CPP)—which contain both Florisil and carbon in a dual-bed, single-cartridge format—provide a much more effective cleanup. Better cleanup means that columns last longer and instruments stay running, which increases sample throughput and lab profitability.</p><h5><strong>This webinar will cover these topics:</strong></h5><ul><li>Learn how adding carbon can improve cleanup of soil and water samples.</li><li>See how this improved cleanup improves the data collected.</li><li>Realize the reduction in routine maintenance from running cleaner extracts.</li></ul><p><strong>Join us for this valuable educational webinar!</strong></p>

Restek Corporation: Clean + Fast: Improve Productivity for Pesticides Analysis with Resprep FL + CarboPrep Plus SPE

Clean + Fast: Improve Productivity for Pesticides Analysis with Resprep FL + CarboPrep Plus SPE

Discover how Resprep FL+CPP SPE cartridges enhance soil and water sample cleanup, boosting data quality, reducing downtime, and increasing lab efficiency.

Pesticides Analysis with Resprep FL + CarboPrep Plus SPE

<div><div container-id="cq-colctrl-lt0" comp-id="A1"><div><p><strong>The analysis of pesticide residues in environmental and food safety samples is critical to ensure regulatory compliance and protect consumer health. The TSQ 9610 GC-MS/MS product range is ideally suited for this purpose and offers significant advantages when analyzing GC-qualified pesticides in different sample types.</strong></p><p>Public environmental and food service providers and contract testing laboratories can significantly increase sample throughput for pesticide analysis by using an automated workflow. This includes QuEChERS extraction, purification with uSPE and PTV injection into the GC-MS/MS - fully automated by the TriPlus RSH SMART robotic autosampler.</p><p>The webinar will discuss various technologies to significantly reduce detection limits.</p><h5><strong>Learning points</strong></h5><ul><li>Time travel through the development of sample preparation</li><li>Automation and miniaturization in modern analytics</li><li>Performance features of the TSQ™ 9610 GC-MS/MS - robust, sensitive, time-saving</li><li>Using hydrogen as a carrier gas: opportunities and challenges</li></ul><h5><strong>Who should attend?</strong></h5><ul><li>Lab managers</li><li>Lab technicians</li><li>Technicians in charge of sample prep</li><li>GCMS operators</li></ul><p>If you cannot attend this webinar please register to receive a link to the On Demand version the following day.</p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Petra Gerhards (Regional Marketing Manager EMEA for GC and GCMS and TEA, Thermo Fisher Scientific)</p><p>Her background is over 36 years of experience in the field of GCMS, SPE and LCMS. Since joining the EMEA Regional Marketing Team for CCS in 2016, she has been involved in a lot of workflow solutions combining Vials and Closures with SPE solutions, GCMS and LCMS.</p></blockquote></div></div></div>

Thermo Fisher Scientific: Journey through time in Pesticides analysis

Journey through time in Pesticides analysis

Boost pesticide residue analysis with TSQ 9610 GC-MS/MS. Discover automated QuEChERS workflows, uSPE cleanup, and advanced GC-MS/MS performance.

GCMS webinars focusing on SPE - page 1