In this episode of ‪ChromatographyTalk‬, ‪Organomation‬ General Manager David Oliva sits down with Imad Haidar Ahmad, Scientific Research Director at Amgen leading separations for Discovery Chemistry and Externalization. Imad's career spans Novartis, Merck, and now Amgen, and his research on computer-assisted method development has landed multiple front covers in Analytical Chemistry.We dig into how his group builds retention models from as few as nine lab experiments to map an entire separation landscape — replacing weeks of trial and error with a resolution map you can query and rebuild from. Imad breaks down where this modeling approach struggles (large molecules, SFC, fully autonomous method development), walks through two-dimensional liquid chromatography in plain terms for anyone who's only worked in 1D, and shares the story behind his group's greenness-score mapping work — including where swapping acetonitrile for methanol worked, and where it didn't.We also talk career advice: what a typical day looks like leading a discovery-stage separations team, how undergrad and grad students can bridge the academia-to-industry gap, and what Imad sees as the field's biggest unsolved problem.<h3>Video Transcription</h3>Chromatographic method development is increasingly moving beyond trial and error toward workflows built on modeling, automation, multidimensional separations, and smarter use of data. In a recent interview, Haidar Ahmad discussed how these approaches are changing pharmaceutical analysis, why understanding the fundamentals of chromatography remains essential, and where some of the biggest opportunities in separation science still lie.Ahmad’s route into analytical chemistry was not entirely planned. As an undergraduate, he initially found inorganic and organic chemistry particularly attractive, but a final-year project focused on the analysis of additives in bread introduced him to the possibilities of analytical chemistry. During his PhD, his research moved into polymer analysis and structure–property relationships. His interest in chromatography deepened when he encountered two-dimensional liquid chromatography (2D-LC), particularly its ability to reveal forms of polymer heterogeneity that could not be adequately characterized using a single separation technique. This eventually led to postdoctoral work with Peter Carr, where Ahmad focused on chromatographic separations and the fundamentals of chromatography.His subsequent career in the pharmaceutical industry exposed him to different stages of drug development, from late-stage method development and validation to drug substance characterization, purification, and finally discovery-stage separations. That breadth of experience has shaped his view of chromatography as both a scientific discipline and a practical problem-solving tool. In late-stage development, the objective may be a highly robust method capable of successful validation and transfer between laboratories. In discovery, by contrast, speed becomes critical because teams may be working with thousands of molecules while trying to identify the best candidates to advance.&nbsp;<h4>Discovery-stage chromatography: speed, prioritization, and throughput</h4>For a separations team supporting drug discovery, the working day is shaped by a constant flow of requests from medicinal chemistry and other partner groups. The challenge is not simply to perform the analyses, but to decide which requests are most urgent, remove bottlenecks, communicate with project teams, and continuously improve existing workflows.According to Ahmad, one of the most important questions is whether a task can be done faster or in a more high-throughput way. Discovery laboratories operate under strong time pressure, and efficiency therefore becomes part of the scientific strategy rather than merely an operational concern. As he describes it, the work combines science, prioritization, leadership, and communication, all with the aim of moving the most important projects forward as quickly as possible.<h4>In silico modeling: letting the computer perform the experiments</h4>One of the central themes of Ahmad’s work is in silico chromatographic modeling. In practical terms, the approach begins with a carefully designed set of laboratory experiments—often around nine runs. The resulting data are fed into software that builds retention models describing how analyte retention changes with variables such as mobile-phase composition and temperature.The software can then generate a resolution map representing a much larger separation space than could realistically be tested experimentally. Instead of running dozens or hundreds of conditions by trial and error, the analyst can identify regions where critical peak pairs are predicted to achieve the best separation.For Ahmad, the value of these maps goes beyond simply finding the condition with the highest resolution. Each point on the map represents a chromatographic condition, while the visual output shows where poor and strong separations are expected. A broad region of good resolution is particularly useful because it points toward a more robust operating space rather than a narrowly defined optimum that might be sensitive to small variations in experimental conditions.He therefore prefers to think of a chromatographic model as a map or database, rather than simply an optimization tool. If an impurity later disappears from the process, the corresponding peak can be removed from the model and new conditions selected without repeating the complete experimental study. Conversely, if a new degradation product appears during stability studies, the peak can be added and the existing model used to search for updated separation conditions.<h4>Why trial and error still has a place</h4>Modeling does not mean that conventional trial-and-error method development has disappeared. Ahmad points out that it remains useful in early discovery, particularly for fit-for-purpose methods where speed is more important than achieving a fully optimized separation.The situation changes later in development. A method intended for validation, transfer, or long-term routine use carries much greater risk. Trial and error may identify a condition that appears satisfactory without revealing whether it represents the most robust region of the separation space. If that method later fails during transfer or routine operation, the consequences can be costly.For late-stage methods, the additional investment required to build a model can therefore reduce risk over the much longer lifetime of the analytical procedure.<h4>Models are only as good as the experiments behind them</h4>Chromatographic modeling is not automatic proof against poor method development. Ahmad compares the technology to a GPS: it is highly useful, but only if the analyst understands where they are trying to go.Careful experimental design remains essential. Incorrect dwell-volume or column-volume information, as well as insufficient column re-equilibration, can produce misleading predictions. Importantly, these problems may not be obvious when the experimental runs used to construct the model are compared with their calculated values. They may emerge only when the software begins predicting new conditions within the modeled design space.Modeling is also easier for some separations than others. Ahmad describes reversed-phase LC of small molecules as comparatively straightforward, while large biomolecules are more challenging because their retention can be highly sensitive to small changes in mobile-phase composition and temperature.Other separation modes present additional difficulties. Ahmad notes that his teams have found supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC) particularly challenging to model successfully. Fully autonomous method development remains another unresolved goal: current tools can automate parts of optimization, but analyst input is still required.<h4>Why two dimensions can reveal what one dimension cannot</h4>Ahmad’s early interest in 2D-LC came from polymer characterization. He explains the principle simply: one-dimensional chromatography may answer one question about a sample, while two complementary dimensions can answer two.Two copolymers, for example, may have similar molecular size and therefore coelute in size-exclusion chromatography. A second separation mechanism based on interaction with a stationary phase may distinguish them according to chemical composition. Combining both dimensions provides a more complete description of complex distributions involving molecular weight, composition, sequence, and other forms of heterogeneity.Historically, the complexity of both instrumentation and software limited wider adoption of 2D-LC. Ahmad recalls systems requiring several computers and multiple software packages. That situation has improved substantially, and 2D-LC is now easier to implement across research and pharmaceutical development.Nevertheless, modeling multidimensional separations still presents challenges. While models can be built for individual fractions or dimensions, current software does not easily identify a common optimum across multiple models simultaneously. Much of this comparison still requires manual work.<h4>Bringing sustainability into method development</h4>Another area where Ahmad sees room for change is green analytical chemistry.Traditional pharmaceutical method development has understandably prioritized resolution, sensitivity, robustness, and turnaround time. Sustainability has often been treated as a secondary consideration, particularly at the analytical scale, where solvent use appears small compared with preparative chromatography or manufacturing.That mindset is beginning to change. Ahmad argues that greenness metrics should increasingly be incorporated directly into method-development software. If analysts could immediately see how changes in flow rate, gradient conditions, solvent choice, or other parameters affect the environmental profile of a method, sustainability could become part of routine optimization rather than an assessment performed after the method has already been developed.The objective, however, is not to pursue the greenest possible method regardless of analytical performance. Ahmad emphasizes the need to develop methods that are as green as possible while remaining fit for purpose. Modeling can potentially help balance these competing requirements by identifying conditions that preserve separation performance while allowing greener solvents or alternative chromatographic conditions to be introduced.<h4>Advice for young chromatographers: do not treat HPLC as a black box</h4>For students learning chromatography, Ahmad’s central recommendation is straightforward: do not treat the HPLC system as a black box.Rather than collecting chromatograms by making random changes, he encourages analysts to build a mental model of the separation. When temperature, gradient, or another parameter is changed, they should ask why retention or selectivity changed and use each experiment to improve their understanding of the system.He also recommends making use of educational resources on chromatographic fundamentals and method development and, importantly, not being afraid to experiment with instrument conditions. Modern systems are robust, but the analyst still needs to understand the underlying separation science in order to use them effectively.The same proactive attitude applies to career development. Ahmad strongly encourages students to seek industry internships and make connections beyond their own institutions. Conferences and poster sessions can provide natural opportunities to meet scientists from industry, discuss research, and ask about internship opportunities. Based on his own experience working with undergraduate and graduate interns, these collaborations can benefit both students and research teams and may strongly influence later academic or career decisions.<h4>What still needs to be solved?</h4>Asked about the biggest unresolved challenges in separation science, Ahmad does not begin with technology. Instead, he points to a shortage of well-trained analytical chemists with a strong understanding of chromatographic fundamentals.Alongside education, he identifies several technical opportunities. One is truly autonomous method development, where an instrument and software could optimize a separation without continuous analyst input. Another is the ability to predict chromatographic selectivity directly from molecular structure.Such capability could be especially valuable in high-throughput discovery environments. If a laboratory could predict which stationary phase and conditions were most likely to separate a particular set of compounds or isomers before entering the laboratory, method development could become considerably faster and more efficient.Taken together, Ahmad’s perspective points toward a future in which chromatography becomes increasingly model-driven, automated, multidimensional, and sustainability-aware. But the technology does not eliminate the need for chromatographic knowledge. On the contrary, as analytical tools become more powerful, understanding the fundamentals may become even more important—the software can explore the separation space, but the scientist still needs to know what question to ask and how to interpret the answer.<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>

 In Silico Modeling, 2D-LC & Green Chromatography: Imad Ahmad on the Future of Method Development

Proper care and maintenance of HPLC columns are essential for getting accurate results and saving on replacement costs. Extending the HPLC column life not only ensures consistent performance but also reduces downtime and the need for frequent replacements.Routine maintenance is equally essential for sustaining column functionality. Correct handling of the column is paramount, ensuring strict compliance with the manufacturer’s specifications regarding pressure, pH, flow rate, and temperature.In the next section, we will explore these best practices in greater detail, offering further guidance on essential HPLC column maintenance strategies. Whether you’re working in a high-throughput lab, or conducting occasional analyses, these strategies will help you get the most out of your <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products?category=48&amp;manufacturerItems=50">HPLC columns</a>.<h3>Essential Guidelines for Extending HPLC Column Life</h3>By adopting these simple yet effective practices, you can greatly extend the HPLC column life while ensuring reliable, high-quality results in your analyses.<h4>Proper Column Handling</h4>HPLC columns should be handled with care to prevent physical damage or shock. The pump should not be started at high flow rates; instead, the flow rate should be gradually increased over several minutes. A pump pressure limit should be set to protect the column from over pressuring, as sudden pressure changes can lead to voids, negatively affecting the column’s performance.<h4>HPLC Column Conditioning and Equilibration</h4>Conditioning is a critical step for preparing a new or stored HPLC column by replacing the storage solvent with the desired mobile phase. Care must be taken to avoid introducing immiscible solvent mixtures into the column. Universally miscible solvents such as THF (tetrahydrofuran) or IPA (isopropyl alcohol) can be useful for this process when moving from normal phase to reversed phase solvent systems. Care must also be taken to ensure that solvents that may be damaging to a specific stationary phase are avoided.For example, if a reversed-phase column experiences phase collapse due to 100% aqueous mobile phases, it should be reactivated. This process involves running 100% acetonitrile at a high flow rate and a temperature as high as 60°C. It is essential to ensure no solid buffers precipitate from residual solvents. Depending on the column condition, between 50 and 100 column volumes are needed for complete reactivation and equilibration, restoring the column’s efficiency for future use.<h4>Optimizing Operating Conditions</h4>Optimizing operating conditions is paramount to enhancing HPLC column efficiency and prolonging their operational lifespan. A fundamental aspect of this is strict adherence to the manufacturer’s recommended temperature, pH and pressure parameters.Deviating from these limits, particularly by operating at elevated temperatures, can significantly hasten the degradation of the stationary phase and hardware, thereby compromising overall performance. Elevated temperatures can also narrow the pH operating range, exacerbating the risk of column degradation through phenomena such as peak broadening or diminished efficiency.Effective pressure management is equally crucial. Sudden pressure surges or mechanical shocks can result in bed voiding, leading to poor chromatographic performance, such as split peaks and reduced separation efficiency. Gradual ramping of flow and pressure, implemented each time the column is initiated, mitigates these risks. Many modern HPLC systems are equipped with automated flow-pressure ramping capabilities, ensuring smoother transitions and reducing the potential for column damage.In addition, vigilant monitoring of the mobile phase's pH is vital to the maintenance of HPLC column integrity. Deviations from the optimal pH range can cause significant harm to the stationary phase. For instance, leads to ligand hydrolysis which leads to a loss of stationary phase functionality and diminished column performance over time. High pH can lead to silica degradation. This weakens the silica structure, causing particle dissolution, void formation, and loss of column efficiency. Maintaining the pH within optimal boundaries is essential for preserving the column’s structural integrity and ensuring consistent chromatographic performance.Furthermore, incorporating inline filters and guard columns into the system serves as a proactive measure to prevent particulates and harsh sample matrices from damaging the analytical column. These preventive tools significantly enhance operational conditions and safeguard the column from contamination, ultimately contributing to extended HPLC column lifetime and reliable performance.<h4>Regular Column Maintenance</h4>Effective routine maintenance is paramount to extending the HPLC column lifetime and ensuring the consistent performance of HPLC columns. A critical aspect of this maintenance is the thorough washing of the column after each use to eliminate residual sample components and mobile phase contaminants.The cleaning process generally involves performing an isocratic or gradient wash using a solvent system similar to the one previously used on the column but substituting the buffer with HPLC-grade water. This helps effectively remove any residual buffer components from the column. This meticulous cleaning process is vital to preventing the accumulation of impurities that could compromise the stationary phase and lead to decreased efficiency over time.Post-cleaning, it is imperative to end-cap the column before storage to prevent the stationary phase from drying out, a condition that can negatively impact the column’s future performance. Proper capping or sealing ensures that the column remains in optimal condition, safeguarding its structural integrity and readiness for subsequent analyses.Additionally, utilizing an older HPLC system as a dedicated wash station can further streamline maintenance practices, freeing up live systems for active use. Consistently adhering to a rigorous cleaning and storage regimen not only enhances the longevity of HPLC columns but also guarantees the delivery of precise and reliable analytical results.For severe contamination or pressure buildup, backflushing may be necessary to dislodge tightly bound contaminants. However, backflushing should only be performed when absolutely necessary, as it can stress the column packing material. It is essential to consult the manufacturer’s instructions before attempting this method.

How to Extend the Lifetime of HPLC Columns?

Researchers from CATRIN at Palacký University, together with colleagues from VSB – Technical University of Ostrava and Charles University, have developed a new graphene ink for producing inexpensive and sensitive printed sensors. Using single-atom engineering, they incorporated copper atoms into the material, enabling highly sensitive detection of dopamine – a neurotransmitter responsible for transmitting signals between nerve cells. The approach, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://advanced.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/advs.76796">presented in the journal Advanced Science</a>, has strong potential for use in medical diagnostics.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CATRIN_Atom_po_atomu_Vedci_ukazali_novy_smer_v_lekarske_diagnostice_8a02ad6a66.webp" alt="CATRIN: Atom by atom. Scientists reveal a new direction in medical diagnostics" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CATRIN_Atom_po_atomu_Vedci_ukazali_novy_smer_v_lekarske_diagnostice_8a02ad6a66.webp 117w," sizes="100vw" width="1920" height="2560">Single-atom engineering makes it possible to control the chemical reactivity of materials at the level of individual atoms. Its broader application in medical diagnostics has so far been limited by a lack of atomically engineered materials and printable inks based on them. Researchers have now developed a new class of single-atom-doped graphene materials as well as an ink for producing sensitive printed sensors. Copper proved particularly effective for dopamine detection, which is important for biomedical research and the development of advanced diagnostic technologies for diseases including Alzheimer’s disease.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CATRIN_Atom_po_atomu_Vedci_ukazali_novy_smer_v_lekarske_diagnostice_2_97e419f039.webp" alt="CATRIN: Atom by atom. Scientists reveal a new direction in medical diagnostics" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CATRIN_Atom_po_atomu_Vedci_ukazali_novy_smer_v_lekarske_diagnostice_2_97e419f039.webp 117w," sizes="100vw" width="1920" height="2560">“The NGA-Cu ink we developed enables the production of fully inkjet-printed, sustainable paper-based electrodes at very low cost. Each sensor requires only 1.3 micrograms of active ink, costs approximately one Czech koruna and provided a stable response for at least three months. The ink is also fully compatible with commonly available materials inkjet printers. This creates significant potential for producing affordable, digitally designed sensors whose function can be tailored atom by atom,” said&nbsp;the corresponding author of the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://advanced.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/advs.76796">paper</a> Michal Otyepka.The basis for this new generation of single-atom inks was nitrogen-doped graphene acid (NGA), which CATRIN researchers developed several years ago. They have now progressively enriched it with different individual metal atoms, including copper, iron and manganese.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CATRIN_Atom_po_atomu_Vedci_ukazali_novy_smer_v_lekarske_diagnostice_3_c15d831792.webp" alt="CATRIN: Atom by atom. Scientists reveal a new direction in medical diagnostics" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CATRIN_Atom_po_atomu_Vedci_ukazali_novy_smer_v_lekarske_diagnostice_3_c15d831792.webp 117w," sizes="100vw" width="1920" height="2560">“We found that the electrochemical response depends fundamentally on the type of atom used. While copper atoms significantly enhance the dopamine signal, other metals suppress it. What matters, therefore, is not only the presence of isolated metal atoms but also the specific metal involved. This is a very important finding for the further development of biosensors,” explained first author Martin-Alex Nalepa.The published results introduce a new class of sensing materials with considerable potential for medical diagnostics. The researchers present a broadly applicable platform for developing graphene inks containing individual metal atoms and open the way towards scalable, reproducible and material-efficient production of advanced electrochemical sensors.&nbsp;“We are only at the beginning and are fascinated by the new possibilities opening up before us. We can see that by changing the type of atom, we can control the sensitivity and selectivity of the sensor. In addition to dopamine, we can also determine immunoglobulins very precisely – antibodies whose levels and types may serve as important indicators of autoimmune or infectious diseases,” emphasised Radek Zbořil, a co-author of the paper.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CATRIN_Atom_po_atomu_Vedci_ukazali_novy_smer_v_lekarske_diagnostice_4_273cd760a5.webp" alt="CATRIN: Atom by atom. Scientists reveal a new direction in medical diagnostics" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CATRIN_Atom_po_atomu_Vedci_ukazali_novy_smer_v_lekarske_diagnostice_4_273cd760a5.webp 117w," sizes="100vw" width="1920" height="2560">Electrochemical biosensors can find applications not only in medicine but also in food quality control, drinking-water monitoring and environmental pollution monitoring. Their key components are functionalised electrodes, and graphene-based materials have proved particularly suitable for their production. A key factor in the success of the Olomouc researchers was the targeted preparation of graphene ink with the required properties.The research was supported by the TECHSCALE project under the Johannes Amos Comenius Programme.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CATRIN_Atom_po_atomu_Vedci_ukazali_novy_smer_v_lekarske_diagnostice_5_b1778f77f2.jpg" alt="CATRIN: Atom by atom. Scientists reveal a new direction in medical diagnostics: Project TECHSCALE (No. CZ.02.01.01/00/22_008/0004587) is financed by the MEYS OP JAC Excellent research programme, supported by ERDF/ESF." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CATRIN_Atom_po_atomu_Vedci_ukazali_novy_smer_v_lekarske_diagnostice_5_b1778f77f2.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="620" height="87"><blockquote><h4>Article</h4><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://advanced.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/advs.76796">Single-Atom-Enhanced Fully Inkjet-Printed Electrochemical Sensor for Dopamine Detection</a></h4>Martin-Alex Nalepa, David Panáček, Vítězslav Hrubý, Matěj Jendřišák, Rostislav Langer, Michal Langer, Petr Jakubec, Ivan Dědek, Vojtěch Kupka, Michal Mazur, Radek Zbořil, Michal OtyepkaAdv. Sci., 2026, e76796<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://doi.org/10.1002/advs.76796">https://doi.org/10.1002/advs.76796</a><h6>licenced under <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/">CC-BY 4.0</a></h6></blockquote><h4>Abstract</h4>Single-atom (SA) engineering offers atomic-level control over interfacial reactivity, yet the lack of printable SA-based inks hinders its practical translation into electrochemical sensing. Here, a fully water-based inkjet-printable ink is introduced based on nitrogen-doped graphene acid (NGA) hosting atomically dispersed Cu centers (NGA-Cu-ink). The ink enables digitally controlled, spatially defined deposition and fabrication of low-cost ($0.04 per sensor), fully inkjet-printed sustainable electrodes on paper. A comparison of NGA functionalized with different SA dopants (Cu, Mn, Fe, Ce) identifies a strong dopant-dependent electrochemical response, with Cu uniquely enhancing the analyte signal while other dopants suppress it, demonstrating that SA identity is a decisive design parameter in printed sensing interfaces profiling sensitivity and selectivity. The functional role of the NGA support is to provide dense anchoring sites (nitrogen and carboxylate groups) that stabilize atomically dispersed metal centers and create adsorption- and electron-transfer–active microenvironments. The NGA-Cu-ink yields enhanced dopamine oxidation, enabling quantitative detection on fully printed devices (limit of detection 9.7 µM; linear range 50–400 µM) and printed-on-electrode platforms (10.6 µM), while maintaining &lt;10% signal variation over 11 weeks. The approach establishes a general route to single-atom graphene-based inks for scalable, reproducible, and low-material-consumption manufacturing of advanced electrochemical sensors.

Atom by atom. Scientists reveal a new direction in medical diagnostics

Article

Academy

Scientists

Interview

Science and research

Video

The Czech Advanced Technology and Research Institute (CATRIN) at Palacký University is a cutting-edge scientific hub dedicated to advancing research in the fields of nanotechnology, biotechnology, and biomedicine. At its core, CATRIN boasts outstanding scientific teams, featuring international researchers. We emphasize interdisciplinarity, foster global collaborations, and work to translate our research findings into practical applications.

CATRIN

Phenomenex is a global technology leader committed to developing novel analytical chemistry solutions that solve the separation and purification challenges of researchers in industrial, government and academic laboratories.

Phenomenex

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.

Organomation

Agilent Technologies

Milestone

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Evosep Biosystems

Waters Corporation

Is your lab ready to begin its digital transformation?
Using IoT sensor technologies, AI modeling, and advanced analytics, your digital lab can safely capture data, create business intelligence,and implement actioned programs. Connect your lab digitally by watching this episode of The Lab Central.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Kamesh Janakiraman (Product Specialist - Lab Informatics, Agilent Technologies)
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Agilent Technologies: The Digital Lab Connection

The Digital Lab Connection

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Therapeutic oligonucleotides (oligos) have become a focus of interest and promise in biopharmaceutical research due to their potential to treat many kinds of disorders. Whether siRNA, mRNA, or DNA, separating oligos from complex matrix is difficult.
The size, nucleotide complexity, and general variations in these oligos can vary. As a result, liquid chromatography (LC) analysis and purification of oligonucleotides is challenging.
We will address chromatographic conditions for oligonucleotide analysis. Specifically, we will discuss fundamental characteristics of the LC column stationary phase, method development guidelines, and optimizations for analytical characterization through scale up to preparative purification.
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Presenter: Mohit Patel (Application Engineer, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
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Mohit Patel is part of the CSD Online AE Team. His primary focus is to support SMLC, Bio-Columns, and consumables.
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Before joining Agilent, Mohit was an Assistant Professor of Chemistry at Temple University. Mohit developed his passion for science through his experiences as a faculty researcher and a mentor. Mohit actively taught, developed curriculum, and served as senior personnel, with a leadership position, on funded grants, mentored research projects, and co-coordinator of STEAM related outreach services.
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Mohit has earned a Doctorate degree in Chemistry from Temple University in 2016.
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Agilent Technologies: Oligonucleotide Analysis: Practical Techniques and Method Development Optimization for HPLC

Oligonucleotide Analysis: Practical Techniques and Method Development Optimization for HPLC

Chromatographic conditions for oligonucleotide analysis.

Oligonucleotides: Techniques and Method Development

Ion mobility-mass spectrometry has become a valuable analytical tool in providing rotationally averaged collision cross-section values (CCS) that correlate to the size and shape of molecules. It delivers an added dimension of separation based on drift times.
Using accurate mass, retention times, MS/MS spectra and CCS, we can minimize the chance of getting false-positives or false-negatives in targeted or untargeted screening. In discovery workflows, CCS values in combination with machine learning can be used to predict structures minimizing the need for reference standards.
We will show data generated with the IMQTOF and how it can help solve challenges in screening and discovery. We will also look at the integration of machine learning with ion mobility to predict structures of chemical components. 
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Presenter: Sheher Banu Mohsin, Ph.D. (Senior Applications Scientist, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
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Sheher Mohsin received her Ph.D. in physical chemistry from the University of Illinois and an MBA from Rockhurst University. Sheher currently works at Agilent Technologies as a Senior Applications Scientist. Her recent efforts has been focused on developing workflows for untargeted lipidomics.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: What Do You Get from Ion Mobility Q-TOF?

What Do You Get from Ion Mobility Q-TOF?

Data generated with the IMQTOF and how it can help solve challenges in screening and discovery.

How about a 20 minute coffee break along with a bite of <a href="https://lcms.cz/products/627">Empower</a>? Here you go!
In this session we demonstrate how to create and use Customer Fields to generate workflows in Empower
A Custom Field is a user defined field (or column) of information in a table. Creating Custom Fields gives you the ability to create tailored sample identifiers and calculations beyond what Empower provides by default. During this series, we will explore the various types of Custom Fields that can be created and provide some practical examples.
Learn more and register!
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Presenter: Carsten Fischer (Informatics Product Marketing, EMEA, Waters Corporation)
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Waters - Informatics series #12 Adjust Empower very flexible to your specific needs

Adjust Empower very flexible to your specific needs

In this session we demonstrate how to create and use Customer Fields to generate workflows in Empower.

The holiday season is approaching, and you are planning to switch off your lab? We have you covered!
Join our webinar and learn some easy protocols to prepare your analytical instruments to be switched off and some best practices around HPLC columns conditioning, so that you can start up again with maximum productivity.
<h5>Live from our demo lab in Milano, we will show you how to manage the following instruments:</h5>
<ul>
<li>1260/1290 Infinity II LC</li>
<li>LCMS Single Quad, Triple Quad and QTOF</li>
</ul>
Not all laboratories and not all instruments need a complete switch off, we will provide you a compass to find the right directions for your lab.
As a second part we will provide a comprehensive summary on how to protect your HPLC columns from early failure, clogging and performance loss and we will cover key tips and tricks to maximize your columns lifetime.
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Presenter: Scott Bollen (Business Development Manager, Agilent Technologies)
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Scott specializes in small molecule LC columns, ranging from HPLC to UHPLC. Scott has worked at Agilent for 17 years. He started as a technical support manager, and now supports new LC products in R&amp;D as well as the entirety of the existing small molecule LC column portfolio in business development.
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Presenter: Lorenzo Zingaro (LC/MS Product Specialist, Agilent Technologies)
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Lorenzo Zingaro studied at the University of Milan, obtaining a degree in Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology in 2004
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He worked for six years in an analysis laboratory dealing with the development, validation and analysis of LC-MS methods, applied to chemical and biological markets. In 2013 he began his experience in Agilent Technologies Italia, working as an on-site service engineering for 5 years. Since 2018 he has held the role of Liquid Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry Product Specialist.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
In recent years he has gained technical and applicative experience on the main LC and LCMS hardware and software platforms, participating in the introduction of new products and technologies on the market.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Sophie Tirat (Application Engineer, Agilent Technologies)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Sophie Tirat obtained her PhD in Chemistry in 2015. She worked for 3 years as a LC-MS specialist in the field of drug discovery at the University of Lille, then for 4 years as analytical development specialist for a pharmaceutical company, dealing with the development and validation of LC-MS and GC-MS methods for food supplements and medical devices.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Sophie started her carrier in Agilent in October 2022 as an Application Engineer, focusing on performing demonstrations and developing new applications for the Applied Markets, using Agilent’s LC-MS and GC-MS instruments.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Preparing your Lab for the holiday season

Preparing your Lab for the holiday season

Learn some easy protocols to prepare your analytical instruments to be switched off and some best practices around HPLC columns conditioning.

Learn more about how the Evosep One has been used in identifying the proteins present in tumor tissues and discovering biomarkers used to detect or monitor the presence of cancer. These findings pave the way for translating research into clinical applications, including the development of new diagnostic tests, targeted therapies, and improved treatment protocols.
<h4>Deep topographic proteomics of a human brain tumour</h4>
<ul>
<li>Presenter: Roman Fischer (associate professor and Head of discovery proteomics facility, University of Oxford )</li>
</ul>
The presentation will explore the development and application of systematic spatial proteome analysis in human tumour tissue with view of resolving the spatial context of the tumour proteome. Further, the presentation will cover proteome clustering with obvious visual queues such as tumour border or vascularisation, but also show proteome based mapping and discovery of new tumour areas, tracking extracellular matrix or immune cell markers.
<h4>Proteogenomic Characterization of Chemotherapy Response in Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer</h4>
<ul>
<li>Presenter: Matthew Holt (Laboratory Director, Baylor College of Medicine)</li>
</ul>
Only one quarter of patients with muscle invasive urothelial bladder cancer (MIBC) gain approximately 5% improvement in 5-year overall survival from standard of care cisplatin-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC). Characterizing MIBC poses challenges due to inherent muscle tissue infiltration. Proteogenomic profiling of high tumor content samples from 60 patients recapitulated previously established TCGA genomic and transcriptomic signatures. Notably, proteomic and phosphoproteomic profiles mirror RNAseq subtypes but diverge significantly in key regulatory pathways. We leveraged our recent SEPepQuant algorithm to identify isoforms and isoform families specific to chemotherapy resistance and validated these results with targeted proteomics. Our findings reinforce established MIBC subtypes, while offering new mechanistic insights into chemotherapy resistance.

Tumour tissue proteomics

Evosep One has been used in identifying the proteins present in tumor tissues and discovering biomarkers used to detect or monitor the presence of cancer.

Multi-angle light scattering (MALS) detection combined with size exclusion chromatography is a powerful technique for the characterization of polymers and biomolecules.
MALS detection allows absolute determination of molecular weight and size distribution of biopolymers, such as proteins, and is increasingly used in the biopharmaceutical industry. This presentation will introduce Agilent&#39;s 1260 Infinity II Multi-Angle Light Scattering Detector and features of WinGPC control software. Applications explored include analysis of synthetic polymers, proteins, and AAVs.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Derek Lohmann (GPC/SEC Product Specialist, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Derek Lohmann worked for PSS USA Inc for over 10 years, before being acquired by Agilent. He served in various customer-facing roles, supporting customers in all matters related to GPC/SEC and advanced polymer characterization. Derek received his Ph.D. from the University of Hamburg, Germany where he focused on exploring structure-property relationships for water-soluble polymers using SEC and FFF with advanced detection methods.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Lance Kasper (HPLC Applications Scientist, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Lance Kasper is an HPLC applications scientist with Agilent Technologies at the Wood Dale, IL site. He has been with Agilent over 5 years supporting customers with applications that include biomolecule separations and size exclusion chromatography. Prior to joining Agilent, Lance was a lab automation application scientist in the biopharma industry and worked on biomolecule HPLC methods at a contract research lab. Lance holds a master&#39;s degree in medical biotechnology from University of Illinois.
</blockquote>

Agilent: Advancing Biopolymer and Synthetic Polymer Analysis: An Introduction to Agilent's 1260 Infinity II Multi-Angle Light Scattering Detector and WinGPC Software

Advancing Biopolymer and Synthetic Polymer Analysis: An Introduction to Agilent's 1260 Infinity II Multi-Angle Light Scattering Detector and WinGPC Software

Advancing Biopolymer and Synthetic Polymer Analysis

Regulatory agencies recommend the implementation of a risk assessment strategy for potential nitrosamines in pharmaceutical products that are at risk of their presence. However, low nitrosamine concentrations and high background interference significantly increases the complexity of nitrosamines analysis. Hence, it is pivotal to select the right column chemistry and dimensions for effective nitrosamines analysis.
Key learning objectives:
<ul>
<li>Detect 8 nitrosamines in a single method, even in the presence of 35 diverse active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) 
</li>
<li>Learn the strategic approach to selecting your column chemistry, focusing on the distinct polarity characteristics of the drug and nitrosamines impurities 
</li>
<li>Achieve exceptional efficiency, great peak shape and exceptional resolution with <a href="https://lcms.cz/products/423">Thermo Scientific™ Hypersil Gold™</a>, <a href="https://lcms.cz/products?search=Accucore">Thermo Scientific™ Accucore™</a> and Thermo Scientific™ Acclaim™ columns for your high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) applications.
</li>
</ul>
Register now to secure your spot and gain valuable insights that will transform your approach to pharmaceutical product testing.

ThermoFisher Scientific: Providing the Robust Liquid Chromatography solutions for Nitrosamines and NDSRI analysis

Providing the Robust Liquid Chromatography solutions for Nitrosamines and NDSRI analysis

Liquid Chromatography for Nitrosamines and NDSRI analysis

In this session we demonstrate how to create and use Customer Fields to generate workflows in Empower

Waters Corporation: Waters Empower Custom Fields

Empower Custom Fields

In this session we demonstrate how to create and use Customer Fields to generate workflows in Empower

Waters Empower Custom Fields

<h4>Are you struggling with competitiveness? Are your looking to lower your costs per sample?</h4>Determination of organic pollutants in environmental matrices is a common task for thousands of environmental laboratories worldwide. Conventional sample preparation methods, making use of large solvent volumes and involving intensive sample manipulation, can increase the overal lab's costs.Microwave extraction can help reducing your analysis costs and pocket more profits for the determination of organic pollutants, like PAHs, PCBs, Pesticides, Phenols, Phthalates, EOM, Dioxins or Furans.In this educational webinar, I will guide you through the cost reduction you can get by using of microwave extraction technology (MAE) over traditional extraction approaches (e.g. Soxhlet extraction) talking about running costs, reagents consumption, operator skills and many others.<blockquote>Speaker: Dr. Roberto Boschini, Product Manager at Milestone</blockquote>

Milestone: Practical guide to reduce your sample prep costs for SVOCs analyses

Practical guide to reduce your sample prep costs for SVOCs analyses

In this webinar, I will guide you through the cost reduction by using of microwave extraction technology over traditional extraction approaches.

Advancing Biopolymer and Synthetic Polymer Analysis: An Introduction to Agilent's 1260 Infinity II Multi-Angle Light Scattering Detector and WinGPC Software

Practical guide to reduce your sample prep costs for SVOCs analyses

What Do You Get from Ion Mobility Q-TOF?

The Digital Lab Connection

Oligonucleotide Analysis: Practical Techniques and Method Development Optimization for HPLC

Providing the Robust Liquid Chromatography solutions for Nitrosamines and NDSRI analysis

Tumour tissue proteomics

Empower Custom Fields

Adjust Empower very flexible to your specific needs

Preparing your Lab for the holiday season

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