Join us for a free two-day LECO Separation Science Workshop on September 23–24, 2026, at the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/companies/219">C³AL Laboratory</a> at Cal State LA. Registration is free, and meals and refreshments will be provided throughout the workshop.&nbsp;<h4>Registration</h4><blockquote>👉<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://forms.cloud.microsoft/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=iYeNbqIuykW7qZP4_jUEVbznDB40eK1PgjPzhHyb__9URTFTTFA5UEEzQ1A4MUtFV0o4TEJTNlZCOS4u&amp;route=shorturl">Register HERE</a>Space is limited, register today!<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_LECO_Separation_Science_Workshop_registration_332543a18e.jpg" alt="LECO: LECO Separation Science Workshop - QR code for registration" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_LECO_Separation_Science_Workshop_registration_332543a18e.jpg 156w," sizes="100vw" width="437" height="437"></blockquote><h4>Hand-on Experience with the LECO Complex Chemical Composition Analysis Lab C3AL</h4><ul><li>Work directly with LECO instruments in the C3AL Laboratory</li><li>Learn complete analytical workflows from sample to answer</li><li>Get expert guidance from LECO application scientists</li><li>Develop methods and solve real-world challenges</li><li>Collaborate, ask questions, and build your skills</li></ul><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Cal_State_LA_The_LECO_Pegasus_BTX_system_in_Cal_State_LA_s_LECO_Complex_Chemical_Compositional_Analysis_Lab_enhances_research_and_student_training_in_advanced_chemical_analysis_cover_b739e727ca.jpg" alt="Cal State LA: The LECO Pegasus BTX system in Cal State LA’s LECO Complex Chemical Compositional Analysis Lab enhances research and student training in advanced chemical analysis" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Cal_State_LA_The_LECO_Pegasus_BTX_system_in_Cal_State_LA_s_LECO_Complex_Chemical_Compositional_Analysis_Lab_enhances_research_and_student_training_in_advanced_chemical_analysis_cover_b739e727ca.jpg 227w," sizes="100vw" width="1252" height="863">The first day will focus on the fundamentals and theory of comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC×GC), with an emphasis on understanding how GC×GC can enhance your research, solve complex analytical challenges, and support your laboratory or company goals.&nbsp;The second day will be dedicated to hands-on activities, giving participants the opportunity to work directly with LECO instrumentation, learn practical analytical workflows, and analyze their own samples with guidance from LECO application scientists.&nbsp;Whether you are new to GC×GC or looking to expand its use in your research or organization, this workshop offers a unique opportunity to learn, explore, and apply the technology in a practical setting. Space is limited, so register early!<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Cal_State_LA_LECO_QUADJET_G_Cx_GC_coupled_to_Pegasus_BT_4_D_TOM_MS_in_the_Complex_Chemical_Composition_Analysis_Lab_C_AL_077a14ae34/Cal-State-LA-LECO-QUADJET-GCxGC-coupled-to-Pegasus-BT-4D-TOM-MS-in-the-Complex-Chemical-Composition-Analysis-Lab-(CAL).jpg" alt="Cal State LA: LECO QUADJET GCxGC coupled to Pegasus BT 4D TOM MS in the Complex Chemical Composition Analysis Lab (C³AL)" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Cal_State_LA_LECO_QUADJET_G_Cx_GC_coupled_to_Pegasus_BT_4_D_TOM_MS_in_the_Complex_Chemical_Composition_Analysis_Lab_C_AL_077a14ae34/thumbnail_Cal-State-LA-LECO-QUADJET-GCxGC-coupled-to-Pegasus-BT-4D-TOM-MS-in-the-Complex-Chemical-Composition-Analysis-Lab-(CAL).jpg 234w," sizes="100vw" width="1949" height="1299">

LECO Separation Science Workshop

<h4>Latest edition of the Wiley Registry/NIST Mass Spectral Library for leading pharmaceutical, environmental, and forensic laboratories worldwide expands coverage to more than 1.2 million spectra</h4>Wiley, a global leader in authoritative content and research intelligence, today released the new edition of the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/2591">Wiley Registry/NIST Mass Spectral Library</a>, a reference database that combines two essential mass spectrometry references in a single, integrated collection, giving scientists the full depth of both to identify unknown chemical compounds.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Wiley_Wiley_Registry_NIST_EI_Mass_Spectral_Library_2026_4d3c8f440f.jpg" alt="Wiley: Wiley Registry/NIST EI Mass Spectral Library 2026" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Wiley_Wiley_Registry_NIST_EI_Mass_Spectral_Library_2026_4d3c8f440f.jpg 110w," sizes="100vw" width="1524" height="2161">For years, laboratories doing GC-MS analysis have relied on Wiley’s renowned <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/887">Wiley Registry of Mass Spectral Data</a> and the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/2461">NIST/EPA/NIH EI Mass Spectral Library</a> from the U.S. government’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to power their analytical workflows. These two respected references are united in this database, one of the most comprehensive resources of its kind.The new 2026 edition updates the collection, adding tens of thousands of newly validated compounds across both libraries and bringing the total to more than 1.2 million electron ionization (EI) mass spectra—unique chemical “signatures” used to identify substances.The Wiley Registry/NIST Mass Spectral Library is part of Wiley’s growing portfolio of scientific data and research intelligence solutions, which spans spectral databases, chemistry and materials literature, and analytical tools supporting researchers from discovery through applied outcomes.Wiley’s spectral database solutions are trusted by leading pharmaceutical, environmental, and forensic laboratories worldwide, reflecting Wiley’s mission to transform knowledge into actionable intelligence that helps researchers make confident, high-stakes decisions.<blockquote>“When a scientist runs a sample through a mass spectrometer, the results are only as good as the reference data behind them,” said Armughan Rafat, Wiley senior vice president and chief AI &amp; data analytics officer. “By uniting the Wiley Registry and the NIST Library in a single resource, we deliver the breadth, quality, and validation scientists need to identify unknown compounds faster and with confidence.”</blockquote>Available in the most common instrumentation manufacturer formats, the library supports high-confidence analysis across GC-MS workflows.<h4>Spectral Databases</h4>Spectral databases contain unique molecular “fingerprints” of substances captured through analytical techniques such as infrared (IR), mass spectrometry (MS), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and Raman spectroscopy. By comparing experimental spectra against validated reference data, researchers can accurately identify unknown compounds across a wide range of applications. &nbsp;<h4>About Wiley</h4>Wiley is a global leader in authoritative content and research intelligence for the advancement of scientific discovery, innovation, and learning. With more than 200 years at the center of the scholarly ecosystem, Wiley combines trusted publishing heritage with AI-powered platforms to transform how knowledge is discovered, accessed, and applied. From individual researchers and students to Fortune 500 R&amp;D teams, Wiley enables the transformation of scientific breakthroughs into real-world impact. From knowledge to impact—Wiley is redefining what’s possible in science and learning.&nbsp;

Wiley Releases Database Combining Two of the World’s Most Trusted Chemical Identification Resources

The countdown is almost over. In just one week, the international chromatography community will meet in Prague for the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/events/644">35th International Symposium on Chromatography (ISC 2026)</a>, taking place from September 6–10, 2026. Whether your registration has been confirmed for months or you are still deciding whether to join, now is the time to finalize your plans. Here is what you need to know before ISC 2026 begins.<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/companies/314">ISC</a> is the oldest conference series dedicated to separation science, with symposia organized since 1956. This September, the Prague Congress Centre will welcome researchers, industry experts, instrument manufacturers, young scientists, and other specialists for five days of chromatography and separation science, covering everything from fundamental research to pharmaceutical, environmental, food, health, and omics applications.But before the scientific sessions begin, there are a few practical details worth checking.<h4>ISC officially starts on September 6 – but activities begin a day earlier</h4>The official dates for ISC 2026 are Sunday, September 6 through Thursday, September 10, but for some participants the conference starts already on Saturday, September 5.The first Short Courses are scheduled for Saturday (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/article/6770">SC 1 – Modern HPLC Separation in Theory and Practice</a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/article/7312">SC 2 – mzmine for LC-MS data analysis</a>), with additional courses continuing on Sunday morning and afternoon. If you have registered for a Short Course, make sure to check its exact date and starting time before arranging your journey to Prague.Sunday then marks the official opening of ISC 2026, with the Opening Ceremony, Award Ceremony, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/article/7361">plenary lectures</a>, and Welcome Reception introducing delegates to the week ahead.<h4>Haven’t registered yet? You can still join ISC 2026</h4>Missed the late-registration deadline? It is still possible to attend.Onsite registration has been available since August 26, 2026, giving last-minute participants another opportunity to join the symposium. Current onsite registration fees are:<ul><li>Industry: €1,150</li><li>Academic: €890</li><li>Student: €390</li><li>Short Courses: €270</li></ul>The Short Course fee covers participation in up to three Short Courses.One practical point for last-minute registration: bank-transfer payments closed on August 19, so only card payments are now accepted.Full registration includes access to oral and poster sessions, the exhibition, the Sunday Welcome Reception, scheduled lunches and coffee breaks, the electronic Book of Abstracts, and a Prague public transportation pass.<h4>Where is ISC 2026 and how do you get there?</h4>ISC 2026 will take place at the:Prague Congress Centre<ul><li>5. května 65</li><li>140 21 Prague 4</li><li>Czech Republic</li></ul>The venue is particularly easy to reach by public transport. It is located directly on Prague’s Metro Line C at Vyšehrad station, just around five minutes by metro from Muzeum station in the city centre.The Prague Congress Centre brings the lecture halls, exhibition spaces, meeting rooms, and other conference facilities together in one venue, making it easy to move between scientific sessions, posters, industry activities, and the exhibition throughout the day.And since full conference registration includes public transportation in Prague, getting around the city during ISC should be straightforward.<h4>When can you pick up your conference materials?</h4>The registration desk will already be open during the Short Courses and will remain available throughout the symposium.Registration opening hours:<ul><li>Saturday, September 5: 8:30–17:00</li><li>Sunday, September 6: 7:30–19:00</li><li>Monday, September 7: 7:30–18:00</li><li>Tuesday, September 8: 7:30–19:00</li><li>Wednesday, September 9: 8:00–18:00</li><li>Thursday, September 10: 8:30–14:30</li></ul>If you are arriving in Prague on Sunday, allowing some extra time for registration before the Opening Ceremony will make the start of the conference considerably more relaxed.<h4>Now is the time to build your personal ISC program</h4>With several parallel sessions running throughout the week, trying to decide where to go only after arriving at the venue may mean missing something important.The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/article/7477">main scientific program</a> is organized around three broad areas:<ul><li>Fundamentals</li><li>Bioanalysis and omics applications</li><li>Hyphenated techniques</li></ul>These are complemented by <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/article/7280">Tutorials </a>+ Young Speakers, plenary and invited lectures, poster sessions, the international exhibition, vendor seminars, and industry-focused activities.Before leaving for Prague, take another look at the Interactive Program and mark the lectures, posters, and other activities that are most relevant to you. If you are presenting your own work, this is also the right time to double-check your assigned session, room, and presentation time.And don’t focus only on the oral program. Poster sessions and exhibition breaks are among the best opportunities to discuss new research directly with authors, meet instrument and technology specialists, and make new contacts.<h4>Don’t overlook the vendor seminars and industry program</h4>ISC 2026 is not limited to academic presentations. The conference also includes an extensive industry component, with activities covering current challenges in separation science and practical applications of new analytical technologies.During the lunchtime sessions, participants can attend <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/article/7736">vendor seminars</a> presented by companies including Avantor, Shimadzu, Advanced Materials Technology, Restek, and Thermo Fisher Scientific. Topics range from stationary-phase selectivity and chromatographic modelling to HPLC and LC-MS column technologies and advanced characterization of biotherapeutics.The conference also includes dedicated <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/article/7777">Industry Activities</a> from Monday through Wednesday, bringing together academic and industrial perspectives on topics relevant to analytical laboratories and the future of separation science. One of the discussions, for example, will examine how education in separation science can better reflect the skills required by modern industry, while another will focus on sustainability and the practical implementation of greener analytical workflows.On Wednesday, participants can also join the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/article/7801">Publishing Workshop</a>, another activity worth adding to the schedule if scientific publishing is part of your work.<h4>Test your chromatography knowledge at the ISC Quiz</h4>Not every session needs to be completely serious.On Tuesday, September 8 from 18:30 to 19:30, ISC will host an interactive Chromatography Quiz, combining practical questions, chromatography fundamentals, unusual facts, and lighter challenges.There is no advance registration required. Any registered conference participant can join, but remember to bring a smartphone—the quiz uses live participation through a QR code.Results will be scored in real time, and prizes will be awarded to the top three participants.<h4>Start networking from the first evening</h4>The scientific program may be the main reason to attend ISC, but the conversations between sessions can be equally valuable.The first major networking opportunity comes immediately on Sunday.The Welcome Reception will take place on September 6 from 18:30 to 20:00 in the second-floor foyer of the Prague Congress Centre. It is open to registered participants and accompanying persons and includes a light buffet and drinks.As it takes place immediately after the opening program, it is an ideal opportunity to reconnect with colleagues, meet new contacts, and start conversations before the full parallel scientific program begins on Monday.Another social highlight will be the Gala Dinner on Wednesday, September 9 from 19:00 to midnight at the National House Vinohrady.The Gala Dinner requires a separate €100 ticket, is not included in the standard registration fee, and has a smart-casual dress code. Participants should also note that transportation to and from the venue is not organized by the conference.<h4>And perhaps leave a little time for Prague</h4>A conference schedule can fill up quickly, but ISC 2026 is taking place in one of Europe’s most walkable cities.If you find some free time between sessions, Vyšehrad is only about a 10-minute walk from the Prague Congress Centre and offers panoramic views across Prague and the Vltava River. It is an easy option for a short walk without travelling back into the historic city centre.See you at ISC 2026 in Prague!

ISC 2026 Starts in One Week: What You Need to Know

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The International Symposium on Chromatography (ISC) represents the oldest conference series focussing on separation science. ISC symposia have been organised since 1956 in each even year. ISC is internationally recognised as one of the premier meeting series for discussion of all modes of chromatography and separation science with a broad coverage of techniques and applications.

International Symposium on Chromatography - (ISC)

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In 1936, the Laboratory Equipment Company introduced the first rapid carbon determinator for the American iron and steel industry.  Today, almost 80 years later, LECO is recognized globally as a leader in the development of high-quality analytical instrumentation, mass spectrometers, comprehensive two-dimensional chromatography, metallography & optical equipment as well as consumables.

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<div><h4>Navigating Challenges and Opportunities for Environmental Testing Labs Under the Revised EU Water Framework Directive</h4>The European Commission’s proposed updates to the Water Framework, Groundwater, and Environmental Quality Standards Directives are bringing new responsibilities and opportunities for environmental testing labs. With expanded pollutant lists - including PFAS, pharmaceuticals, and pesticide metabolites - and stricter monitoring and reporting requirements, the landscape of water analysis is rapidly evolving.Join the 4th Waters Environmental Webinar Series to explore how your lab can navigate these challenges and turn regulatory change into opportunity.Register for free and partner with us to shape the future of European water quality.<h5>Why Attend</h5>Stay ahead of new EU regulatory demands with insights from leading experts. Gain practical guidance, share experiences with peers, and prepare your lab for the next generation of water quality standards.<h5>Highlights</h5><ul><li>New pollutant categories and analytical challenges</li><li>Updates to monitoring protocols and reporting</li><li>Innovative methods to meet revised Environmental Quality Standards</li><li>Strategic guidance for compliance and adaptation</li></ul>Lead the change in water analysis—stay ahead, stay compliant, and make a real impact.<h4>EPISODE 6: Blue Thursdays 2026 – The Best Of</h4>In this final session, we’ll look back at the most important things we’ve learned throughout the Blue Thursday series. We’ll explore the big trends we’re seeing, the smart tools scientists use to study the environment, and what exciting developments will be coming next.<blockquote>Speaker: Claudia Rathmann (Principal F&amp;E Market Development Manager, Waters Corporation)Experienced and passionate analytical science professional with over 20 years of technical and strategic expertise in food and environmental applications. Currently serving as Principal Market Development Manager at Waters Corporation, Claudia specializes in connecting customers with product management to deliver innovative solutions for complex analytical challenges. With a strong scientific foundation and a proven track record in both technical and marketing roles, Claudia bridges the gap between customer needs and product innovation across the EMEA region.Speaker: Janitha De-Alwis (JD) (Principal F&amp;E Market Development Manager, Waters Corporation)Janitha De-Alwis (known as JD) is an applications chemist in the European demo lab, based in Wilmslow, UK. His main role focuses on application development work for the food and environmental sector. JD takes great pride in speaking to, and advising, many food and environmental customers. His position requires him to be reactive and proactive to the changes in the food industry, such as changing regulations, topical issues and food safety risks.</blockquote></div>

Blue Thursdays 2026 – The Best Of

In this final session, we’ll look back at the most important things we’ve learned throughout the Blue Thursday series.

Diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS) is a powerful technique for investigating catalyst surface chemistry under reaction conditions. In this live webinar, subject matter specialists from Michigan State University, Specac, and Thermo Fisher Scientific will discuss how in situ DRIFTS can be used to study dry reforming of methane over ceria-supported catalysts and provide insight into the surface species and reaction intermediates involved in catalytic CO₂ utilization.The session will explore DRIFTS experimental setup considerations, approaches for relating spectral observations to catalyst behavior, and examples of how researchers use in situ spectroscopy to investigate CO₂ activation and metal-support interactions. Presenters will also discuss complementary characterization techniques, including CO-DRIFTS, CO₂-DRIFTS, and CO₂-TPD-DRIFTS, and their role in catalyst research workflows.Attendees will be able to gain practical knowledge that can help strengthen catalyst characterization strategies, support experimental design, and improve interpretation of catalyst behavior in heterogeneous catalysis research.<h4>Key takeaways</h4>By attending this webinar, you can learn several aspects about this specific method of analysis:<ul><li>Apply in situ DRIFTS to investigate catalyst surface chemistry under reaction conditions</li><li>Monitor adsorbed species and reaction intermediates during dry reforming of methane</li><li>Relate spectral observations to catalyst behavior and reaction mechanisms</li><li>Investigate CO₂ activation and metal-support interactions in ceria-supported catalyst systems</li><li>Evaluate when to use complementary techniques such as CO-DRIFTS, CO₂-DRIFTS, and CO₂-TPD-DRIFTS</li><li>Incorporate DRIFTS into catalyst characterization workflows to support more informed research and development decisions.</li></ul><h4>Who should attend</h4><ul><li>Catalysis researchers</li><li>Materials scientists</li><li>Surface scientists</li><li>FTIR and vibrational spectroscopy users</li><li>Academic researchers studying heterogeneous catalysis</li><li>Scientists involved in catalyst development and characterization</li><li>Researchers working in CO₂ utilization, carbon management, and sustainable catalysis</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Md Monir Hossain, PhD Candidate, Michigan State UniversityResearcher focused on heterogeneous catalysis, carbon utilization, and DRIFTS studies of ceria-supported catalysts for dry reforming of methane.Presenter: Jim Delaney, Applications Team Lead, SpecacLeader of global spectroscopy application development and customer engagement efforts, supporting advanced research and industrial spectroscopy workflows.Presenter: Lena Woodis, PhD Product Manager, Thermo Fisher ScientificVibrational spectroscopy veteran with more than 15 years of experience in chemical instrumentation, FTIR spectroscopy, and analytical technologies.</blockquote>

Thermo Fisher Scientific: From Spectra to Mechanism: Using DRIFTS to Understand CO₂ Catalysis

From Spectra to Mechanism: Using DRIFTS to Understand CO₂ Catalysis

In this webinar, subject matter specialists will discuss how in situ DRIFTS can be used to study dry reforming of methane over ceria-supported catalysts.

Using DRIFTS to Understand CO₂ Catalysis

Exhaled breath is increasingly recognized as a powerful source of molecular information for personalized medicine. Containing hundreds to thousands of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that reflect metabolic, inflammatory, microbiological, and environmental processes, breath offers a unique, completely non-invasive window into human health. Yet, unlocking this chemical complexity requires analytical platforms capable of delivering both exceptional separation power and high-confidence molecular characterization.At the forefront of this evolution is comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GCxGC-MS), which has emerged as a cornerstone technology in modern breathomics. By significantly expanding chromatographic peak capacity and resolving power compared with conventional one-dimensional approaches, GCxGC-MS enables a more comprehensive exploration of the human volatilome and facilitates the discovery of clinically relevant biomarkers that would otherwise remain undetected.This webinar will explore how advanced GCxGC-MS workflows are transforming breathomics research and accelerating its translation towards clinical implementation. Drawing on recent developments in untargeted and targeted analytical strategies, we will discuss how comprehensive volatilome profiling can be integrated with rapid and streamlined methodologies to create efficient multi-platform pipelines for biomarker discovery, validation, and routine application. Particular emphasis will be placed on the critical role of analytical design, quality control, and data processing in generating robust and reproducible results from highly complex breath samples.Beyond technology development, the presentation will address the key challenges facing the field, including standardization of sampling protocols, harmonization of analytical methodologies, and the transition from exploratory studies to clinically actionable solutions. Real-world applications will illustrate how breathomics can support disease detection, patient stratification, therapeutic monitoring, and precision healthcare.As analytical capabilities continue to advance, GCxGC-MS is positioning breathomics to move beyond proof-of-concept studies and towards a future where non-invasive molecular phenotyping becomes an integral component of personalized medicine.<blockquote>Speaker: Anaïs Rodrigues (Applications Chemist, LECO Europe)</blockquote><blockquote>Speaker: Pierre-Hugues Stefanuto (Lead Scientist &amp; Senior Lecturer, Liège University, Belgium)</blockquote>

LECO: Breathomics - Advancing Personalized Medicine Through Next-Generation Analytical Solutions 

Breathomics: Advancing Personalized Medicine Through Next-Generation Analytical Solutions

Discover how GCxGC-MS transforms breathomics and VOC profiling. Learn how non-invasive molecular phenotyping enables personalized medicine

Breathomics & GCxGC-MS for Personalized Medicine

Fentanyl and synthetic drugs have fundamentally changed how law enforcement handles narcotics testing, raising the stakes for officer safety, operational speed and evidence handling. In this live discussion, Rhode Island counterdrug analyst Erik Burmeister will share how testing workflows actually work in the field today, from roadside seizures to controlled environments.Learn how agencies deploy tools like handheld Raman, trace detection and traditional methods to safely identify substances while maintaining investigative momentum. Through real-world examples, this webinar will explore key decision points, current limitations (including lab backlogs) and practical lessons you can apply within your own agency.<h5>By joining this webinar, you will learn:</h5><ul><li>How agencies are improving officer safety during narcotics identification.</li><li>Where handheld tools fit within real-world testing workflows.</li><li>When to conduct on-scene versus controlled environment testing.</li><li>Key limitations and decision points in narcotics identification today.</li><li>Operational benefits agencies are seeing from modern identification tools.</li></ul><blockquote>Speaker: Erik BurmeisterErik Burmeister is a seasoned intelligence and law enforcement professional with over 20 years of service in the Rhode Island Army National Guard, including three combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. For the past nine years he has served as a criminal analyst with the Rhode Island National Guard Counterdrug Program. Through this role Burmeister has spent seven years assigned to the Rhode Island State Police High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force, followed by two years with the Rhode Island State Police Intelligence Unit. His work focuses on supporting state and federal efforts to combat drug trafficking and strengthen intelligence-driven policing.</blockquote><blockquote>Speaker: Dr. Adam J. HopkinsAdam has served as the Spectroscopy Product Manager at Metrohm USA since 2016, supporting the development and application of handheld and laboratory spectroscopic solutions for substance identification and chemical analysis. He earned his Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Oregon, where he specialized in nonlinear optical spectroscopy. Prior to joining Metrohm Hopkins spent several years developing spectroscopic technologies for standoff and noncontact sensing applications, with expertise in Raman spectroscopy, LIBS and other advanced analytical techniques. Through his work with law enforcement, forensic, and industrial organizations, he helps agencies evaluate and implement technologies that support safer, faster identification of unknown substances in the field and laboratory. Hopkins has authored more than 20 peer-reviewed publications and conference proceedings and is the inventor on three patents related to spectroscopic technologies.</blockquote>

Metrohm: Safer Narcotics Identification in the Fentanyl Era - Lessons from Rhode Island State Police

Safer Narcotics Identification in the Fentanyl Era: Lessons from Rhode Island State Police

Learn how Rhode Island State Police use handheld Raman tools for safe fentanyl identification and faster field drug analysis in this live webinar

Safer Narcotics & Fentanyl Identification: Field Workflows

In this webinar we will discuss raw material verification testing through transparent and non-transparent packaging using the new Agilent Vaya Raman system. Vaya is the first handheld Raman spectrometer incorporating spatially offset Raman spectroscopy (SORS) technology for the quick identification of raw materials through containers. SORS reduces the need for sampling, saving cost, and resources by testing incoming goods quickly in the warehouse. Vaya combines the capabilities of conventional Raman systems with SORS for maximum sample/container compatibility. A range of container/material combinations will be discussed.<blockquote>Presenter: Luciana Terra (Application Scientist, Molecular Spectroscopy, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)Luciana Terra has a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Chemistry from the Federal University of Alfenas (Unifal-MG) as well as a Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry, on Chemometrics, from the State University of Campinas (Unicamp), where she developed work focused on petroleum quality and derivatives using high-resolution Mass Spectrometry, NIR, and chemometrics methodologies. As part of her Ph.D., she also worked at the University of Calgary in Canada. While completing her Master’s Degree at Unicamp, Luciana developed a new methodology for drug polymorphism detection using NIR imaging and chemometrics tools for quality assurance in the pharmaceutical industry. In 2019, she joined Agilent Technologies as an Application Scientist for Molecular Spectroscopy in UV-Vis, Fluorescence, IR, and Raman techniques, at Agilent Technologies, in Brazil.</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Verifying Raw Materials with a Handheld Instrument

Verifying Raw Materials with a Handheld Instrument

Master raw material verification through non-transparent containers with the Agilent Vaya handheld SORS Raman system. Reduce sampling costs and downtime

Handheld SORS Raman: Raw Material Testing with Agilent Vaya

The analysis of microplastics (MP) becomes more difficult for smaller sizes, especially in complex matrices such as sediment of natural waters. In this work, we analyzed MPs in sediment using laser direct infrared (LDIR) imaging, a relatively new technique in environmental MP studies.&nbsp;Sediment samples were spiked with analytical surrogates (polyethylene spheres), and subjected to density separation, wet peroxide oxidation, calcite removal, and filtration. The extracted particles were coated on to a low-emissivity glass slide which was first examined on a stereomicroscope. Six slides (two sediment samples and four different blanks) were further analyzed using an Agilent LDIR system. Approximately 520 and 430 MP/g were found in the two samples, with diameter ranging 20-3,384 mm and 84% being smaller than 100 mm. The increase in particle count with decreasing particle sizes followed a power law curve, suggesting that a large portion of the smaller MPs was generated by the breakdown of larger plastic pieces. Major polymers found in this work included polyamide, polyester, polytetrafluoroethylene, and polyacetal. Most MPs were fragments, while beads and fiber were also found. In the two sediment samples, 14% and 46% of the total particles, respectively, were composed of non-plastic micro-sized particles, including natural polyamide, cellulose, chitin, rubber, and "unknown". Challenges, potential biases, and uncertainties are discussed. This work is the first application of LDIR imaging on MPs in natural sediment.<blockquote>Presenter: An Li (Professor Emerita, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Illinois Chicago)Dr. An Li is a Professor Emeritus in School of Public Health, University of Illinois Chicago. She is an environmental chemist, with her research focus on how human activities influence the natural environment and how the changes in turn affect human health. Her research particularly focuses on persistent and bioaccumulative organic chemicals which are potentially toxic. She has led a number of federally funded projects and programs, including the Great Lakes Sediment Surveillance Program (GLSSP) funded by the US EPA. Dr. Li has published two books Physical and Chemical Processes in the Aquatic Environment (2014) and Persistent Organic Pollutants in Asia (2007), &gt;100 journal articles, as well as numerous other publications.</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Characterization of Microplastics in Sediment Using LDIR Microscopy

Characterization of Microplastics in Sediment Using LDIR Microscopy

Explore microplastics analysis in sediment using Agilent LDIR microscopy. Learn sample prep and polymer identification

LDIR Microscopy: Microplastics Characterization in Sediment

<div><div id="inner_content_body_text" data-content-id="394785">As PFAS regulations continue to evolve, laboratories face increasing pressure to detect a broader range of compounds while maintaining confidence, efficiency, and regulatory readiness. Traditional targeted methods remain essential, but growing awareness of emerging PFAS is driving the need for more comprehensive analytical strategies.Join us for a webinar exploring the latest advances in high-resolution mass spectrometry and intelligent data analysis that enable more comprehensive PFAS characterization in food and food-contact material testing.<h4>You will learn how to:</h4><ul><li>Expand PFAS detection beyond targeted analysis</li><li>Improve confidence in identifying known and emerging PFAS</li><li>Streamline PFAS identification with intelligent data analysis workflows</li><li>Stay ahead of evolving food safety testing requirements</li></ul>The webinar concludes with a live panel discussion moderated by Dr. Dasharath P. Oulkar (Thermo Fisher Scientific). Joined by invited customer speakers, the panel will explore the growing focus on PFAS in seafood, discussing current analytical challenges, regulatory considerations, and practical approaches to testing.English subtitles will be provided for this webinar and a Certificate of Attendance will be awarded to all attendees of the live webcast.<blockquote>Presenter: Jeremy Koelmel, Ph.D. (Associate Research Scientist in Epidemiology, Yale University)</blockquote><blockquote>Panel Discussion: Dasharath P. Oulkar, Ph.D. (Manager, FSSAI-Thermo Fisher Scientific Food Safety Solution Center, Ghaziabad, Thermo Fisher Scientific, India)Dr Dasharath P. Oulkar has 20+ years of experience in the area of food safety and quality testing and extensive technical experience various chromatography, mass spectrometry and sample preparation techniques required for food safety, authenticity and quality. He is currently working in collaboration with FSSAI to develop new methods and supporting various food laboratories across APJ.&nbsp;</blockquote></div></div>

Thermo Fisher Scientific: Future-Proofing Emerging Contaminants in Food Analysis

Future-Proofing Emerging Contaminants in Food Analysis

Future-proof your food testing lab against evolving PFAS regulations. Learn how high-resolution MS and intelligent workflows identify emerging contaminants

Emerging PFAS in Food Analysis: High-Resolution MS Workflows

<h4>Build Confidence in Your Laboratory Data</h4>Reliable laboratory data doesn't happen by chance, it is the result of a quality assurance program designed to detect risk, drive consistency, and support continuous improvement.In this webinar, we'll explore the four foundational elements of an effective QA program: method development, analyst training, ongoing performance monitoring, and corrective action. Learn how laboratories can use precision, accuracy, control charting, trending analysis, and root cause investigations to identify issues before they impact data quality.We'll also discuss practical strategies for verifying method performance, demonstrating analyst competency, sustaining long-term process control, and using certified reference materials as independent tools to strengthen confidence in analytical results.Whether you are building a new QA program or looking to improve an existing one, this session provides actionable guidance for creating a robust and sustainable framework for quality.<h5>Key takeaways</h5><ul><li>Build a more effective and sustainable laboratory QA program.</li><li>Use precision, accuracy, and control charting to improve data quality and identify issues early.</li><li>Apply root cause analysis and certified reference materials to strengthen performance and corrective actions.</li></ul>Who should attendThis webinar is designed for Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC) managers, analytical chemists and laboratory scientists, laboratory managers and supervisors.Don't miss it!<blockquote>Speaker:&nbsp;Christy Abbas, PhD (Sr. Product Marketing Manager, Waters ERA)Christy has been with Waters ERA for six and a half years. Her career spans roles at an instrument manufacturer, a biopharmaceutical laboratory, and a mining company. She earned her PhD in Applied Chemistry from the Colorado School of Mines.Throughout her career, Christy has supported the nuclear, pharmaceutical, and chemical industries, as well as academia. Drawing on her background in analytical chemistry, product development, marketing, and sales, she is focused on expanding Waters ERA’s product portfolio to better meet evolving customer needs.</blockquote>

Foundations of a Sustainable, High-Performing QA Program

Build a sustainable QA program for your laboratory. Learn how control charting, root cause analysis, and reference materials drive data confidence

Sustainable Laboratory QA: Control Charts & Data Integrity

<div>Rapid microbial analysis is essential for maintaining product quality, ensuring safety, and supporting efficient laboratory workflows, yet selecting the most appropriate analytical approach can be challenging.This educational webinar explores three complementary methods—matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) for microbial identification, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy for microbial strain typing, and automated DNA/RNA electrophoresis for genetic analysis.Through practical examples and application-focused discussion, attendees will gain a clearer understanding of each technique's strengths, limitations, and ideal use cases, helping them make more informed decisions when designing or optimizing microbial testing workflows.Attend this webinar to:<ul><li>Understand how MALDI-TOF MS, FTIR, and automated DNA/RNA electrophoresis address different microbial analysis challenges</li><li>Learn how these three methods can support faster and more efficient microbial testing workflows</li><li>Evaluate which analytical approach is best suited to specific microbial testing applications and laboratory objectives</li><li>Apply practical considerations when implementing microbial identification, bacterial classification, or genetic analysis techniques in routine testing</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Kaoru Nakagawa (Assistant Manager, Application Specialist (MALDI), Shimadzu Corporation)Kaoru Nakagawa joined Shimadzu Corporation in 2008. She began her career at the Koichi Tanaka Mass Spectrometry Research Laboratory, where she developed highly sensitive glycan analysis methods using MALDI-MS with liquid-matrix-based on-plate labeling. Kaoru later moved to a customer-facing role, supporting applications such as, MALDI-MS imaging technologies, including on-tissue chemical derivatization. Today, her work focuses on developing rapid, practical methods for microbial identification using MALDI. Guided by Shimadzu’s corporate philosophy, “Contributing to society through science and technology,” she is dedicated to advancing mass spectrometry technologies that help address real-world scientific challenges.</blockquote><blockquote>Presenter: Nozomi Maeshima (Assistant Manager, Application Specialist (Life Science), Shimadzu Corporation)Nozomi Maeshima is an applications scientist at Shimadzu, where she has been involved in LC-MS application development in the life sciences field and in genetic analysis applications. She also leads promotional and marketing activities and supports customer inquiries. During university, she studied chemical biology and investigated the mechanisms of enzymes involved in biosynthetic processes. Nozomi brings a combination of research experience and applications expertise to help laboratories identify practical solutions for their analytical needs.</blockquote><blockquote>Presenter: Xu Yan ( Assistant Manager, Application Specialist (FTIR), Shimadzu Corporation)Xu Yan is an application chemist at Shimadzu Corporation with five years of experience developing FTIR applications for microbiology, environmental analysis, and GX-related fields. His work focuses on advancing practical FTIR applications and has gained extensive experience in method development and real-world implementation. In this session, Xu will present insights into the use of FTIR for microbiological analysis, including strain typing and related applications.</blockquote></div>

Technology Networks: Modern Methods for Faster Microbial Analysis

Modern Methods for Faster Microbial Analysis

Explore modern microbial analysis methods. Learn how MALDI-TOF MS, FTIR, and automated electrophoresis streamline identification, strain typing, and genetics

Modern Microbial Analysis: MALDI-TOF, FTIR & Electrophoresis

Legacy GC-MS systems can create costly bottlenecks through increased maintenance, reduced productivity, and limited analytical capabilities. Join our webinar to discover how upgrading from legacy GC-MS platforms to the latest Thermo Scientific™ ISQ™ 7610 Single Quadrupole GC-MS and TSQ™ 9610 Triple Quadrupole GC-MS/MS systems are helping laboratories modernize their workflows, achieve higher performance and stay ahead of evolving analytical demands.Learn how innovative technologies such as NeverVent maintenance, extended dynamic range, intelligent software tools, and advanced quantitative performance can help you generate trusted results faster while lowering operational costs. We will also discuss available upgrade incentives designed to support laboratories ready to replace aging GC-MS instrumentation.Whether you currently operate an older Thermo Scientific system or another legacy GC-MS platform, this webinar will provide practical insights into the benefits of modernization and explain how our limited-time upgrade promotion can help make the transition easier.<blockquote>Presenter: Amit Gujar (Product Manager GC-MS, Thermo Fisher Scientific)Amit Gujar, Ph.D. is a Product Manager with the GC, GC-MS business unit at Thermo Fisher Scientific. He has worked at Thermo for over 12 years and has been intimately involved with planning, development and commercial release of their most recent TRACE 1610, ISQ 7610 and TSQ 9610 GC and GC-MS systems. He has a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from University of Tulsa. He did a couple of stints as a postdoctoral scholar before coming to Thermo. The focus of his research has been catalysis, biofuels and clean energy.Moderator: Daniela Cavagnino (Product Marketing Manager, Thermo Fisher Scientific)</blockquote>

Thermo Fisher Scientific: From legacy to leading edge: unlock more uptime, throughput, and confidence with modern GC-MS technology

From legacy to leading edge: unlock more uptime, throughput, and confidence with modern GC-MS technology

Learn how modern Thermo Scientific GC-MS systems improve productivity, maintenance, quantitation, and workflow efficiency when replacing legacy instrumentation.