Insights from an IC specialist: Are you using the right IC column?

As a global leader in ion chromatography (IC), Thermo Fisher Scientific is committed to helping laboratories optimize their IC workflows and achieve reliable, high-quality analytical results.

In 2026, we are hosting a series of educational sessions designed to provide practical guidance on key aspects of IC analysis. Each session features a focused technical presentation from an IC specialist, followed by dedicated time to discuss attendee-submitted questions.  

Our third session will focus on ion chromatography columns. Topics will include:

• Fundamentals of ion-exchange and the types of IC columns
• How to select the best column for your application
• Best practices for column care and maintenance

Whether you are optimizing an existing method, troubleshooting performance issues, or evaluating new applications, this session will provide practical insights to help you improve performance and get more from your IC system.

Presenter: Yan Zhou (R&D Staff Scientist, Thermo Fisher Scientific)

Yan is a Staff Scientist at Thermo Fisher Scientific, where she leads research and development efforts for ion chromatography columns. Her work focuses on designing and optimizing new column chemistries, evaluating prototype performance, translating prototype designs into scalable manufacturing processes, and addressing urgent production and customer-related issues. She holds a Ph.D. in Materials Chemistry from Florida State University.

Moderator: Wai-Chi Man (Product Marketing Manager, Thermo Fisher Scientific)

Wai-Chi has been with Thermo Fisher Scientific for more than eight years working with a wide range of customers in various industries. She provides ion chromatography (IC) support in method development, troubleshooting, sample preparation, training, seminars, events, and workshops. During this time, she has gained deep knowledge, skill, and understanding in areas such as IC-MS, IC-ICP-MS, carbohydrate analysis, metabolomics, and polar pesticides. Prior to joining the company, she worked for Wellcome Research and GlaxoSmithKline. Wai is passionate about promoting STEM to future scientists by encouraging, nurturing, and supporting them.