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

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Waters Corporation

Reversed-phased chromatography is both highly selective and versatile. It is no wonder that it is one of the most widely used methods for both small molecules and biomolecules. However, this wide applicability also makes this one of the most diverse methods. From the numerous stationary phases to pore sizes and mobile phases additives, it seems as though there are endless combinations to choose from. From this plethora of choices, how do you develop the best method for your biomolecule?
In this session, we discuss how to make the most of your reversed-phased analysis of biomolecules. From column selection to method conditions and mobile phases, we will discuss how you can optimize these factors for your biomolecule analysis. And, for when things don’t go according to plan, we will discuss how to troubleshoot your method when things go awry.
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Presenter: Melissa Goodlad (Application Engineer, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
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Melissa Goodlad is an Application Engineer providing applications assistance and technical support for Agilent’s HPLC columns and consumables. Before joining Agilent, Melissa was completing her PhD in Physical Chemistry at UC Merced studying nanoparticle self-assemblies.
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Agilent Technologies: Reversed-Phase for Biomolecules: From Column Selection to Troubleshooting

Reversed-Phase for Biomolecules: From Column Selection to Troubleshooting

We will discuss how to make the most of your reversed-phased analysis of biomolecules.

RP for Biomolecules: Column Selection & Troubleshooting

Learn how to improve assay robustness and reduce the burden associated with migrating methods downstream in the analysis and monitoring of product quality attributes of biopharmaceuticals.
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Presenter: Pawel Bigos (Scientist, Waters Corporation)
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Pawel is a Scientist at Waters Corporation in the QA/QC Biologics group. He joined Waters in 2022 and has primarily focused on biomolecule separations using Ion-Exchange (IEX) and Size Exclusion (SEC) Chromatography. Prior to Waters, he held positions at Frequency Therapeutics, Novartis, and Symbiotic Research. Pawel received his BS degree in chemistry from the University of South Florida.
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Waters Corporation: Advancing Technology for Better Medicine

Advancing Technology for Better Medicine

Learn how to improve assay robustness and reduce the burden associated with migrating methods downstream.

Ion Mobility (IM) advancements in Software, Data Bases, AI and Machine learning are quickly improving capabilities to make unknown identifications, separate and ID isomers, as well as improve workflows associated with metabolomics, lipidomics, PFAS, and qual-quant screening.
In addition, IM measurements are significantly improved with HRdm High Resolution Demultiplexing. This is the first commercial IM instrument to enable the simultaneous combination of high drift resolution, while at the same time achieving all four of the following measurement capabilities: broad mass range in a single injection, multiplexing to increase sensitivity, compatibility with fast chromatographic acquisition rates , and highest precision in CCS measurements. For more accurate CCS predictions, the better precision in the CCS training set improves AI machine learning SW. This can significantly reduce the number of potential candidate structures to select from when making unknown identifications.
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Presenter: Blaine Roberts, PhD (Associate Professor, Department of Biochemistry and Department of Neurology, Emory University)
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Dr. Blaine Roberts is an Associate Professor In the Department of Biochemistry and Department of Neurology at Emory University. He obtained his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry at Montana State University and his PhD in Biochemistry and Biophysics from Oregon State University. His research group focuses on using protein biochemistry and mass spectrometry to understand Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. He has interest in understanding the role of metals in biology and has developed new proteomic technologies to measure metalloproteins. Further, his group is using proteomics to characterize new blood borne biomarkers for Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
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Agilent Technologies: The Hidden Pathophysiology of Lipids and Proteins in Alzheimer’s Revealed with Ion Mobility MS and Quantitative QQQ Biomarker Assays

The Hidden Pathophysiology of Lipids and Proteins in Alzheimer’s Revealed with Ion Mobility MS and Quantitative QQQ Biomarker Assays

The Hidden Pathophysiology of Lipids and Proteins in Alzheimer’s Revealed with Ion Mobility MS and Quantitative QQQ Biomarker Assays.

Pathophysiology of Lipids and Proteins in Alzheimer’s

Emerging therapies like Synthetic Peptides &amp; Oligonucleotides are catching the attention due to its capabilities to improve their physicochemical and biological properties, such as efficacy, stability, bioavailability, safety, etc.
These require thorough understanding &amp; analysis of these molecules and exclusive strategies to quantify these molecules in various biological matrices.
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Presenter: Dr. Ravi Shah (M.S.; PhD), (Head of the Department - Pharmaceutical Analysis, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research - Ahmedabad)
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Dr. Ravi is Head of the Department of pharmaceutical analysis at NIPER- Ahmedabad. He has received his M.S. (Pharm) and PhD from NIPER, Mohali under the guidance of Prof. Saranjit Singh. Before joining back to academic research, he served at various levels in industry to understand the needs of pharma sector. He had started his career with Biocon-BMS research and development center, where he was responsible for analytical activities related to IND and NDA fillings of drug discovery leads. Post drug discovery understanding, he joined Dr. Reddy’s in 2015 as associate director and department head for Analytical R&amp;D Bangalore facility to learn generic drug development. He gathered vast experience on analytical method development, and regulatory requirements pertaining to DMF/ ANDA fillings at US and EU. He also worked significantly on complex generics for getting pharmaceutical equivalence through robust CQA, CPP and CMA correlations through QbD approaches.
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He has published many research articles in almost every international analytical journal like Analytical Chemistry, Drug Testing and Analysis, Journal of Chromatogaphy A,Journal of Chromatogaphy B,Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis, Trends in Analytical Chemistry, Analytical Methods, Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry, Rapid communications in mass spectrometry etc.
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<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Ashish Pargaonkar (Biopharma Workflow Commercialization Lead, Agilent Technologies)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Ashish Pargaonkar is a Lead for Biopharma Workflow Commercialization team for India and also Manager for Centre of Excellences at Bangalore. A Microbiologist by education with a Ph.D, he holds more than 20 years of experience for Biopharma market applications on Hi Resolution Mass Spectrometry. He has a long record of successful demonstrations and customer engagements on workflows for CQA’s, Intact mass, peptide mapping, HCP and Glycans using Agilent state-of-the art solutions. He has authored ASMS posters on media components and therapeutic peptides. Dr. Ashish has been invited speaker at several conferences and workshops at Biosimilar Congress, ADC 2018, IIT (Mumbai, Delhi), ICT (Mumbai), PSI events.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Ms. Paramjeet Khandpur (Biopharma Workflow Commercialization Lead, Agilent Techologies)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Paramjeet Khandpur, M.Tech., holds a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from VTU University and a Master&#39;s in Bioprocess Technology from the Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai. Paramjeet is currently the Biopharma Workflow Commercialization Lead at Agilent. In this role, she leverages her expertise to deliver comprehensive workflow solutions and offer support to customers, catering to their analytical requirements across the Biopharma value chain.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Previously, she worked as an Application Engineer at Agilent&#39;s Centre of Excellence Lab in Bangalore, specializing in various liquid chromatography platforms. She also collaborated with users in the Pharma and Biopharma industry for method development, troubleshooting, and method transfer.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Get the Perfect Answer for Synthetic Peptides & Oligonucleotides

Get the Perfect Answer for Synthetic Peptides & Oligonucleotides

Emerging therapies like Synthetic Peptides & Oligonucleotides are catching the attention due to its capabilities to improve their properties.

Get the Perfect Answer for Synthetic Peptides

Ion chromatography (IC) is a technique extensively used to analyze water samples from different sources, including drinking water, surface water, and wastewater.
Strict adherence to national or global standardized ion chromatography methods, including ISO, ASTM, and DIN, is critical to guarantee reliable and accurate results. Furthermore, standardization provides a unified analytical method for comparing and evaluating environmental monitoring data sets.
In this webinar, our European Senior Ion Chromatography Expert, Detlef Jensen, will explore the critical role of standardized ion chromatography methods in water contaminant analyses. 
ISO and ASTM IC procedures for the following water contaminants will be covered:
<ul>
<li>Disinfection byproducts e.g., bromate
</li>
<li>Perchlorate
</li>
<li>Chromate
</li>
<li>Cations, e.g., sodium, calcium, and ammonium
</li>
<li>Anions, e.g., chloride, nitrate, and fluoride
</li>
</ul>
Who should attend:
<ul>
<li>Environmental and water testing laboratories 
</li>
<li>Laboratory scientists and technicians testing using IC 
</li>
<li>Water and environmental analytical chemistry laboratory manager 
</li>
<li>Contract testing laboratories
</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Detlef Jensen (Sr. Application Expert Applied Markets, EMEA, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Detlef holds a PhD in chemistry from the Technical University Berlin/Germany. For 30 years, he covered many positions at Dionex and Thermo Fisher Scientific. He is supporting our users and our team of field experts all over Europe with his deep knowledge of all expects of ion chromatography and its applications
</blockquote>

Thermo Scientific: Overview of standardized IC methods for water analysis

Overview of standardized IC methods for water analysis

Explore the critical role of standardized ion chromatography methods in water contaminant analyses.

The successful development of effective mRNA-based vaccines to fight Covid-19 has created a boost in acceptance and application of this strategy for other vaccines and also related drug products. Consequently, the demand to analytically characterize these new modalities has risen, challenging the state-of-the-art analytical approaches to keep pace.
In this webinar we showcase how novel techniques together with modern instrumentation and data analysis software can further the understanding of this new drug class, thereby ensuring the efficacy and safety of the drug product.
The identity and sequence validation of the mRNA after limited endonuclease digestion and mass spectrometric sequence confirmation is demonstrated. Tips and tricks for successful method development and data handling in Biopharma finder software will be presented, including the use of the software to address 5’-Capping and poly(A) tail characterization.
We hope to see you there! 
<h3>Learning points:</h3>
<ul>
<li>How novel techniques together with modern instrumentation and data analysis software can further the understanding of this new drug class, thereby ensuring the efficacy and safety of the drug product.</li>
<li>Demonstration of identity and sequence validation of the mRNA after limited endonuclease digestion and mass spectrometric sequence confirmation</li>
<li>Tips and tricks for successful method development and data handling in Biopharma finder software</li>
</ul>
Who should attend:
<ul>
<li>Biopharmaceutical Research Scientists </li>
<li>Analytical Scientists from Biopharma companies working on or interested in oligonucleotide-based therapies. </li>
<li>PhD students in any field of biotherapeutic drug development </li>
<li>Scientists looking to advance knowledge of oligonucleotide analysis.</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Alexander Schwahn (European Application Expert for BioPharma Industry, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Aude Croguennec (Moderator, Regional Marketing Manager, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</blockquote>

Thermo Fisher Scientific: Characterization of mRNA-based therapeutics with (U)HPLC and HRAM mass spectrometry

Characterization of mRNA-based therapeutics with (U)HPLC and HRAM mass spectrometry

In this webinar we showcase how novel techniques together with modern instrumentation and data analysis software.

mRNA-based therapeutics with (U)HPLC and HRAM MS

Join us for our 3-Part series to Meet our Experts and discuss topics including:
<ul>
<li>History of HPLC column technology over the last 50 years and how advancements have helped address current separation challenges.</li>
<li>Fundamentals of small molecule separations to enable you to develop methods more efficiently. </li>
<li>Solvent and column choices with UPLC to develop more environmentally friendly chromatography methods</li>
</ul>
<h3>PART 2: Fundamentals of HPLC Separations for Small Molecule Analyses</h3>
The advantages of HPLC in the separation and measurement of small molecule analyses leads us to consider how chromatography works and how the technology can be adapted to our needs. Understanding chromatographic terms such as resolution (Rs), alpha (a), retention factor (k), and efficiency (N) and the operating conditions which affect them is key in developing successful separations. In this presentation the components of a simple HPLC system will be described and their function highlighted. Special focus will be placed on the HPLC column and the range of particle technologies available. This basic understanding and knowledge of chromatographic fundamentals will provide a solid first step in developing separations for small molecules analyses.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Bonnie Alden (Principal Scientist, Research &amp; Development, Waters Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Bonnie Alden joined Waters Corporation in 1982 to work with Dr. Patrick McDonald to develop new Sep-Pak Cartridge SPE devices. During her career, she has been a member of teams that brought transformative chromatographic columns to market. These include Symmetry Columns which set the industry standard in reproducibility, 1st hybrid chromatographic packing of XTerra Columns, 2nd generation Ethylene Bridged Hybrid (BEH) and Charged Surface Hybrid (CSH) technologies, as well as the recent development of modern, mixed-mode stationary phases for challenging analyses, such as the retention and separation of polar acids. More than 35 years later, she is still an enthusiastic student of liquid chromatography and separation science. Bonnie is currently a principal scientist in the Small Molecule Portfolio Team where her research interests have focused on developing products to address the needs of scientists in the extensive field of small molecule drug development.
</blockquote>

Waters Corporation: Fundamentals of HPLC Separations for Small Molecule Analyses

Fundamentals of HPLC Separations for Small Molecule Analyses

Fundamentals of small molecule separations to enable you to develop methods more efficiently. 

Live from the Lab presents a unique and exciting opportunity to learn about the new Thermo Scientific Orbitrap Astral mass spectrometer and discover how it can unleash the proteomics potential of your laboratory.
Fitting seamlessly into our high-throughput proteomics workflow, the system offers the ability to obtain deeper protein coverage quicker and with higher sensitivity. As well as the mass spectrometer, we will also consider the key issues of sample preparation, chromatography and data analysis.
The event will be hosted by the Thermo Fisher Scientific factory in Bremen but will be live-streamed to locations across the whole EMEA region. The agenda will include presentations from designers of the new system, including Professor Alexander Makarov, as well as leading scientists who will present their thoughts and their data on the new instrument and it&#39;s potential for a range of scientific fields including cancer research and precision medicine.
In addition to the Orbitrap Astral we will showcase the complete portfolio of instruments offering the solution of an Orbitrap for every lab!
<h3>Agenda:</h3>
<h5>10:00-10:10 Welcome and introduction</h5>
<ul>
<li>Thomas Moehring, Thermo Fisher Scientific</li>
</ul>
<h5>10:10-10:40 Velocity- A benchmarking workflow for high throughput DIA label-free quantification</h5>
<ul>
<li>Julia Kraegenbring, Thermo Fisher Scientific</li>
</ul>
<h5>10:40-11:10 Rethink what’s possible with the Orbitrap™ Astral ™ Mass Spectrometer</h5>
<ul>
<li>Alexander Makarov and Hamish Stewart, Thermo Fisher</li>
</ul>
<h5>11:10-11:40 DIA with non-isobaric multiplexing on a novel high-resolution platform</h5>
<ul>
<li>Sofia Steigerwald, Mann Lab, Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Institute of Biochemistry</li>
</ul>
<h5>11:40-12:10 Coffee Break and Q&amp;A session</h5>
<h5>12:10-12:40 Plasma proteomics with unprecedented depth and scale</h5>
<ul>
<li>Markus Vossman, Seer Inc.</li>
</ul>
<h5>12:40-13:10 Sensitive and robust high-throughput workflow for quantitative and qualitative single cell/single cell-like analysis</h5>
<ul>
<li>Bernard Delanghe, Thermo Fisher Scientific</li>
</ul>
<h5>13:10-13:40 Single-cell proteomics on the Orbitrap Astral MS for the exploration of cell heterogeneity</h5>
<ul>
<li>Benjamin Furtwängler, Technical University of Denmark</li>
</ul>
<h5>13:40-14:30 Lunch and Q&amp;A session</h5>
<h5>14:30-15:30 Laboratory/ Factory Plus Tour Orbitrap Astral Show and Tell</h5>
<h5>15:30-17:00 Networking discussions</h5>

Live from the Lab

Learn about the new Thermo Scientific Orbitrap Astral mass spectrometer and discover how it can unleash the proteomics potential of your laboratory.

Mass Spectrometry Imaging (MSI) is a technique that allows chemical information to be obtained directly or via the use of matrices from a wide range of surfaces. MS Imaging provides information on the spatial distribution of molecules at or near the surface. Imaging provides beautiful and information-rich images that allow scientists to answer the fundamental question: “Where is this component in my sample?”
In this webinar series, we will examine the basics of MS imaging, compare the techniques of untargeted and targeted MS Imaging and the information that can be gained from each, and end with an interview from Dr. Ryan Leib (Stanford University) and Dr. Roy Martin (Waters Corporation) on the practicalities of setting up a MS Imaging Core lab.
Who Should Attend: Any scientist, lab managers or lab directors looking to expand (or refresh) their knowledge of MS Imaging.
<h3>Part One – October 10th, 2023: What is mass spectrometric imaging?</h3>
In this session, we will examine the types of MS imaging techniques on the market and the platforms on which they can be run. We will also discuss the types of data and information that MS imaging can provide and what imaging provides a user that other mass spectrometric techniques cannot.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Bindesh Shrestha (Senior Application Support Scientist, Waters Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Bindesh Shrestha, PhD., is an expert in the field of imaging mass spectrometry and ambient ionization. He completed his graduate work at the George Washington University and is currently employed with the Waters Corporation. In Waters, Bindesh supports academic grant efforts with biomedical applications, such as imaging MS and metabolomics. Bindesh has co-authored about three dozen peer-reviewed articles in leading journals, such as Angewandte Chemie, Analytical Chemistry, Analyst, Nature Methods. In the last two years, he edited a book on single-cell metabolism with Springer and published an introductory book on imaging mass spectrometry with Elsevier.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
HOST: Kieron Faherty, Ph.D. (Separations and Mass Spectrometry Field Marketing Manager, Waters Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Kieron Faherty is the Separations and Mass Spectrometry Field Marketing Manager for the Americas at Waters Corporation. He received his B.Sc. (Hons) in Chemistry from the University of Reading (Reading, Berkshire, UK) and his doctorate in Chemistry from the University of Massachusetts (Amherst, MA). He has held several field-based positions at Waters, most recently as a Field Applications Specialist focused on biopharmaceutical applications using Time-of-Flight mass spectrometry instrumentation.
</blockquote>

Waters Corporation: What is Mass Spectrometry Imaging?

What is Mass Spectrometry Imaging?

We will examine the types of MS imaging techniques on the market and the platforms on which they can be run.

In this session we check the latest features and additions to Empower in relation to Compliance and Data Integrity.

Waters Corporation: How can Waters help you with Compliance / Data Integrity

How can Waters help you with Compliance / Data Integrity