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

Separation Science

Agilent Technologies

Technology Networks

Thermo Fisher Scientific

SelectScience

Waters Corporation

Applications in the world of UV-Vis instrumentation range from the simple routine measurement (i.e. absorbance at a single wavelength) to the more complex (i.e. thermal melts or in situ absorbance vs time measurements).
The focus of Part I of this two part series will be on entry level and the mid-performance instrumentation and what is needed to make a variety of measurements.
<blockquote>
Presenter. Mark Fisher, PhD (Application Engineer, Molecular Spectroscopy, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Mark, an Application Scientist for Agilent Technologies, has over 35 years of experience in molecular spectroscopy. He has held roles in Agilent&#39;s UV-Vis-NIR, fluorescence, and atomic absorption product portfolios. In addition to identifying industry trends and new business needs, Mark&#39;s responsibilities include application development, pre and post-sales support, as well as acting as a customer advocate for new product and technology opportunities. Mark received his doctorate in analytical chemistry from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
</blockquote>

Agilent technologies: UV-Vis Instrumentation: From Routine to Advanced Applications

UV-Vis Instrumentation: From Routine to Advanced Applications

Entry level and the mid-performance instrumentation and what is needed to make a variety of measurements.

UVVis Instrumentation: From Routine to Advanced Applications

With Services Central, you can spend less time searching for support and more time focusing on your important work. This online platform has what you need to easily manage your instruments and equipment.
<ul>
<li>Submit a service request at any time: you and your colleagues can request service 24/7†
</li>
<li>Track service in real time: receive real-time updates on ticket status
</li>
<li>Troubleshoot with ease: instantly access your service history or operating manuals to help diagnose and resolve simple instrument and equipment issues
</li>
<li>Make it your own: customize instruments and equipment with nicknames, add favorites, and create your own groups and systems
</li>
</ul>
Register for the free live webinar to see how Services Central expedites your service:
<ul>
<li>Learn tips and tricks to expedite your service process, including a live walkthrough of how to add your instruments and key features to help you in your daily work
</li>
<li>Hear how users are taking advantage of Services Central to help maximize uptime
</li>
<li>See what’s coming next
</li>
</ul>

Thermo Scientific: Services Central Webinar

Services Central Webinar

What you need to easily manage your instruments and equipment.

Thermo Scientific Services Central Webinar

In Quality Control laboratories, your work is the final critical testing step to ensure you have the necessary quality for your end customers.
As QC Scientists, you are faced with an ever-increasing workload, tasked with analyzing more samples in a shorter period of time and quickly turning around required reviews before batches can be released for shipment. The Empower Tip of the Week blog was started in 2017 with the focus on using Empower more effectively to help make your workflow in the laboratory more efficient. 
As we think about your workflow in Quality Control, we will highlight tips to make the following easier:
<ul>
<li>Getting started quickly: Comprehensive Sample Set Methods to prime, purge and equilibrate your instrument
</li>
<li>Triggers to stop you if there is a problem: Interactive System Suitability to automatically stop your instrument if system suitability fails
</li>
<li>Streamlining data review: Configure Review to automatically load and apply the Method Set for easier data review
</li>
<li>Streamlining result review: Review Results by Exception to flag out of specification Results
</li>
<li>Leveraging electronic workflows: Use Electronic Signatures on Report Methods
</li>
<li>Identify issues and ongoing monitor: Use Control Charts for data tracking and trending
</li>
</ul>
Please join us for a live discussion. As always, don’t forget to bring your questions for this exclusive opportunity to ask our experts anything about Empower Software!
<blockquote>
Presenter: Neil Lander (Principal Product Manager - Informatics Group, Waters Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Neil has worked for Waters Corporation since 1994 and has held a variety of positions including Technical Support Specialist, Technical Trainer, Manager Customer Education and currently, Principal Marketing Manager in Waters in the Informatics group. Neil provides internal support for Empower CDS software and is focused on developing laboratory software solutions that help organizations achieve their scientific and operational objectives. Prior to joining Waters Corporation, he was an analytical chemist where he gained experience in both the cosmetics and specialty chemical industries.
</blockquote>

Waters Corporation: Empower Tips: Ask Me Anything About the Top Tips To Simplify Workflows and Your Day

Empower Tips: Ask Me Anything About the Top Tips To Simplify Workflows and Your Day

In Quality Control laboratories, your work is the final critical testing step to ensure you have the necessary quality for your end customers.

Empower Tips: Ask Me Anything About the Top Tips

Antisense oligonucleotide therapeutics (ASOs) have realized tremendous success over the last twenty years in the management of previously untreatable diseases.
Therapeutic ASOs and siRNA are typically very potent therapeutics that present significant challenges in their isolation and quantitation out of biological fluids and tissues. Two groundbreaking solutions from Phenomenex; Clarity OTX and Biozen Oligo have become the key in the development of analytical methods for oligonucleotide therapeutics.
Key Learning Points:
<ul>
<li>Understand how Clarity OTX works in isolating oligonucleotides from biological matrices.
</li>
<li>Learn about antisense oligonucleotide structures and the challenges in isolating them from biological matrices.
</li>
<li>Discover how to optimize isolation solutions for specific oligos and matrices of interest.
</li>
</ul>
Who Should Attend:
<ul>
<li>Any scientists who are interested in learning more about strategies for optimizing oligonucleotide isolation and analytical analysis.</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Michael D McGinley (Director, Global Applications, Phenomenex)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Michael McGinley is the director of Phenomenex’s global application laboratories in charge of generating scientific content supporting the company’s product portfolios in the clinical, food, environmental, and biopharmaceutical industries. Over his 20 years at Phenomenex, Michael has served in various product development, marketing, and technical management roles. He managed the development and commercialization of numerous products including its award-winning Gemini and Clarity product lines. Before Phenomenex, Michael was at Amgen where he held several positions over a dozen year span, including Associate Scientist, Project Manager, and Laboratory Head. Michael received his degree in Biochemistry from the University of California at Berkeley and was one of the early proteomics innovators where he helped establish the pioneering program at Amgen. Michael is a recognized chromatography expert and long-serving member of the editorial advisory board of LC/GC magazine. His fields of expertise include HPLC method development, proteomics, oligonucleotide chemistry, and protein characterization with over a hundred publications in the respective fields.
</blockquote>

Phenomenex: Advances in Oligonucleotide Sample Preparation and Analysis

Advances in Oligonucleotide Sample Preparation and Analysis

Understand how Clarity OTX works in isolating oligonucleotides from biological matrices.

The quality by design (QbD) approach in analytical method development emphasizes risk management and comprehensive scientific approach.
Its application in analytical method lifecycle helps to increase the robustness and ruggedness of methods compared to traditional method development approaches. Furthermore, the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Chapter &lt;1220&gt; provides the framework for the implementation of QbD principles around analytical method. USP &lt;1220&gt; emphasizes the importance of sound scientific approaches and quality risk management for the development, control, establishment and use of analytical procedures.
In this webinar, Dr. Rajagopal Karuppuswamy, Vice President of analytical servies at Nephron Pharmaceuticals Corporation and Manu Grover, business development manager of pharma markets at Agilent Technologies will discuss the concept of QbD in reference to analytical development, the steps required to implement QbD, recent regulations in this area, and the benefits of adopting QbD.
Key learning objectives
<ul>
<li>Learn about the implementation of QbD in research labs and the analytical development process
</li>
<li>Gain insight into improving method robustness and implementing risk assessment approaches during analytical development
</li>
<li>Explore the steps required to comply with regulatory guidelines and the lifecycle management approach
</li>
</ul>
Who should attend?
<ul>
<li>Analytical scientists
</li>
<li>Lab managers
</li>
<li>Regulatory experts
</li>
<li>R&amp;D heads
</li>
<li>Quality control scientists/managers
</li>
<li>Quality assurance experts
</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Rajagopal Karuppuswamy (Vice President - Analytical Services, Nephron Pharmaceuticals Corporation, West Columbia, South Carolina)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Raja Karuppusamy gained his MS in pharmaceutics and PhD in analytical chemistry from the University of Delhi, India. He has over 20 years’ experience in the pharmaceutical industry. He is currently working as the Vice President of Analytical Services with the Nephron Pharmaceuticals Corporation in South Carolina. He has extensive experience with various regulatory agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration, Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, and the Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency (Anvisa). He has published over 20 research papers and has contributed toward multiple USP monographs.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Manu Grover (Business development manager – Pharma markets, Agilent Technologies)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Manu Grover is a postgraduate in pharmacy from the Manipal Academy, India. He has 21 years of chromatography experience and has worked in pharmaceuticals to support investigational new drug applications, new drug applications and abbreviated new drug application filings. During his career, he has developed and validated analytical methods on HPLC, GC, particle sizing, DSC, pXRD and LC/MS. In his current role he works with the Agilent sales team, regulators and pharmaceutical scientists. He shares market updates, trends and expertise related to Agilent’s portfolio of columns supplies, and helps to ensure scientists select the right solutions for their lab.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Blake Forman (Scientific Content Creator, SelectScience)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Blake studied chemistry at the University of Surrey, UK, and further went on to study a master’s in chemistry at the University of Southampton, UK. Blake has previously worked in the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) lab at LGC and as a technical sales specialist for Waters. As a member of the Editorial team, he now plays an integral role in shaping the content on SelectScience.
</blockquote>

SelectScience: Analytical method development: A quality by design (QbD) approach

Analytical method development: A quality by design (QbD) approach

Concept of QbD in reference to analytical development, the steps required to implement QbD, recent regulations in this area, and the benefits of adopting QbD.

Analytical method development: A quality by design approach

There are hundreds of drug candidates to screen for purity, integrity and stability during early drug development, which can become a considerable bottleneck.
High-throughput analytical platforms and fast analysis methods are attractive approaches to address high sample volume issues. CE-SDS is a widely recognized workflow for the determination of purity in protein and gene therapy products. However, a major limitation of this method is its low throughput, resulting in highly inefficient method development and optimization when onboarding new molecules.
This webinar discusses how to assess the purity of mAb and viral vector samples using a capillary electrophoresis-based strategy that enables a significant reduction in turnaround time without compromising data quality. 
Attend this webinar to:
<ul>
<li>Learn about rapid method development for new modalities
</li>
<li>Discover reproducible characterization of impurities
</li>
<li>Enable an eight-fold increase in throughput
</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Andy Blum (Scientist, Biogen)
</blockquote>

Technology Networks: Tackling Analytical Bottlenecks in Next-Generation Drug Development

Tackling Analytical Bottlenecks in Next-Generation Drug Development

How to assess the purity of mAb and viral vector samples using a capillary electrophoresis-based strategy.

Tackling Analytical Bottlenecks

Every organization has unique needs regarding their laboratory processes, workflows, and overall mission.
When considering ways to meet those needs, it is vital that an organization evaluates the potential resources they can implement, from laboratory instrumentation to software solutions. The goal is to add value and increase optimization. 
Selecting a software solution is a decision that will have a direct, intense impact on your lab. It will affect how efficiently your staff works, how streamlined your processes are, and how accurately your work can be accomplished. You want to make sure that the impact is positive. A laboratory information management system (LIMS) is a necessary resource because it can store and aggregate your data in one place, streamline your workflows and processes, and increase efficiency, reliability, and value – all which are limited when managed manually. It’s important to choose a solution that is easy-to-use, with minimal customization that addresses the key challenges of your industry and can integrate with existing instrumentation and software systems. Understand the key considerations when selecting a LIMS to best meet your goals and elevate your lab.
By attending this presentation you will learn about:
<ul>
<li>The value of choosing a LIMS solution that meets your laboratory’s requirements and needs
</li>
<li>The impact of making the right choice to elevate your lab’s productivity, efficiency, and ability to deliver high quality results
</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Adam Collins (Senior Product Specialist, Digital Science Solutions, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
As Senior Product Specialist for Digital Science Solutions at Thermo Fisher Scientific, Adam specializes in providing software demonstrations and technical support for organizations across multiple industry sectors who are assessing Thermo Fisher Scientific’s LIMS solutions for their laboratory needs. He has over five years of experience as a technical product specialist for laboratory software. Adam has Doctor of Philosophy and Bachelor of Science degrees in Microbial Genetics and Microbiology from the University of Nottingham.
</blockquote>

Separation Science: How to choose the right LIMS solution

How to choose the right LIMS solution

Understand the key considerations when selecting a LIMS to best meet your goals and elevate your lab.

How can you maximize the productivity of your trusted Waters liquid chromatography (LC) systems?
With the easy-to-use Waters Automation Portal, you will be able to automate your ACQUITY and Arc UPLC, UHPLC, and HPLC Systems to reduce time spent on tedious manual procedures, minimize errors, and making your LC and LC-MS workflows more efficient.
In this webinar, hear from Waters partners who will explain how installing the Automation Portal onto their ACQUITY and Arc Sample Managers simplified sample transfer, allowing their scientists to focus on the science instead of tasks.
The Automation Portal is configurable with a wide range of Waters LC and LC-MS systems, reduces space needed for plate loading and transfer, enables automation scheduling with specially designed software, and conveniently works with your preferred integrator to fit into your established workflows.
Join our webinar to see how to streamline your workflows and achieve the quality and consistency your lab demands from its automation partner.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Darcy Shave (Principal Product Manager, Waters Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Darcy Shave is currently a principal product manager in the Small Molecules group at Waters Corporation (Milford, MA, USA), responsible for the purification and hardware automation products. Darcy has been with Waters for over 20 years, starting as an applications chemist in the purification group. From there, he moved into a variety of business development roles before becoming a product manager for purification software about 10 years ago and more recently for the entire purification portfolio. He has a degree in Agricultural Chemistry from the University of Saskatchewan and worked in value added processing of natural products before joining Waters.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: John Canty (Technical Trainer, Biosero)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
John Canty is the Technical Trainer at Biosero where he educates scientists, automation engineers, and developers in automation solutions. With 19 years of experience in automation, John has held engineering roles at many other companies within the industry, including HighRes Biosolutions, Labcyte, Beckman Coulter, Zymergen, and Illumina. Throughout his career, he has been responsible for the concept, design, programming, and testing of automated equipment and processes. He now uses his expertise to teach others how to master automation software and technology for their own work.
</blockquote>

Waters Corporation: Automate and Streamline Your Lab’s LC and LC-MS Workflows

Automate and Streamline Your Lab’s LC and LC-MS Workflows

We will explain how installing the Automation Portal onto ACQUITY and Arc Sample Managers simplified sample transfer.

Amino Acid Analysis is required in many applications related to foods, dietary supplements and animal feeds and is a fundamental tool for monitoring product QC and compliance with nutritional labeling.
AOAC International has recently published a standardized method (AOAC Official Method 2018.06) for the analysis of total amino acids in infant formulas and adult nutritionals by UHPLC-UV. For some samples, to obtain a full amino acid profile, the samples must first be hydrolyzed. Due to the varied properties of amino acids and diversity of sample matrices, hydrolysis, separation and detection represents an analytical challenge. Learn more about effective hydrolysis, separation and detection of amino acids in dietary supplements, plant-based meats, and pet food during a 3-part webinar series with CEM and Waters.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Alicia Douglas Stell, Ph.D. (Market Development Manager, Applied Markets, CEM Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Alicia Douglas Stell has worked with CEM for the past 15 years, joining after completing her PhD in Analytical Chemistry. Her extensive background in chromatographic analysis and her mechanical expertise have been integral in the development of both instrumentation and novel applications. In her role as Market Development Manager, she is continuously exploring new applications and markets for innovative technology, focused around sample preparation.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Benedict Liu (Product Specialist, Organic Solutions, CEM Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Benedict Liu graduated from UNC Chapel Hill in 2018 with a bachelor&#39;s degree in chemistry and mathematics. He joined CEM soon after and has been with the company for 5 years serving as an applications chemist and product specialist for the Molecular Sample Preparation division. In his time at CEM, Ben has worked to develop solutions for the extraction of organic pollutants in soils and product, microwave amino acid hydrolysis protocols, and automated extraction methods for PFAS in solid and semi-solid matrices.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Paula Phenix (Principal Product Marketing Manager, Waters Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Paula is a Principal Product Marketing Manager at Waters with a focus on products for amino acid and glycan analysis. Prior to her current role in the Chemistry and Lab Automation Group, she was the Product Marketing Manager for Specialty LC and SFC Systems in the Instruments group. Before joining Waters, she held product management, marketing and sales roles for several companies (Life Technologies, Promega, MilliporeSigma) in the molecular biology, immunology, cell culture and single-use bioprocessing areas. Paula graduated from the University of Delaware with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and from Johns Hopkins University with a Master’s degree in Business.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Ravali Alagandula, Ph.D. (Chemistry Market Development Manager, Waters Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Ravali is a Chemistry Market Development Manager at Waters with focus on all chemistry consumables and lab automation products. She holds a Ph. D. in Analytical Chemistry from Cleveland State University. She started her career as an LC applications scientist at Restek, developing LC-MS/MS and sample preparation methods in clinical and life science markets. Most recently, Ravali was a Chemistry Account Manager at Waters supporting key accounts and customers to promote chemistry consumable business in all market areas.
</blockquote>

Waters Corporation: Easy & Efficient Amino Acid Sample Prep followed by Accurate Detection - a look at Plant-based Meats and Proteins

Easy & Efficient Amino Acid Sample Prep followed by Accurate Detection - a look at Plant-based Meats and Proteins

Learn more about effective hydrolysis, separation and detection of amino acids in dietary supplements, plant-based meats, and pet food.

A look at Plant-based Meats and Proteins

Join us for this two-part webinar series where we will share successful techniques to effectively improve lab-scale HPLC purification to isolate and purify important target compounds.
In the development of drug therapeutics, preparative chromatography is especially useful in providing sufficient yields of compounds with high purity intermediates and final products. Lab scale purification is also essential for isolating compounds from complex mixtures in other industries including food and environmental, biopharmaceutical, and natural product research. We will present simple techniques that can be easily implemented to improve compound isolation quickly and effectively. These predictable strategies for scaling and optimizing separations, whether used alone, or in combination, ultimately lead to enhanced product purity and yield within reasonable timelines.
Key Learnings from this series include:
<ul>
<li>Gain insights for applying simple techniques to improve lab-scale purifications
</li>
<li>Learn to scale your analytical – prep workflows predictably
</li>
<li>For problematic targets, gain confidence choosing successful strategies to meet purification goals
</li>
<li>Boost preparative workflow efficiency using Waters OBD columns
</li>
</ul>
Who Should Attend?
<ul>
<li>Scientists performing mg scale isolation and purification workflows
</li>
<li>Medicinal and Synthetic Chemists in Pharmaceutical &amp; Academia
</li>
<li>Scientists, novices to experts, using HPLC for lab-scale purification of target molecules
</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Jo-Ann Jablonski (Principal Scientist, Waters Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Jo-Ann Jablonski is a Principal Scientist in the Consumables and Lab Automation Group at Waters Corporation. Prior to joining Waters, she worked as an oligonucleotide chemist synthesizing and purifying DNA probes for research projects in a biotech company focused on developing cutting-edge therapeutics. Jo-Ann was later responsible for synthesizing, analyzing, isolating, and characterizing peptides for research at the small scale. She then transitioned to developing a process for the manufacture of a therapeutic peptide product. Since joining Waters 25 years ago, Jo-Ann has provided technical support, training, and application assistance for Waters’ chemistry products and purification systems.
</blockquote>

Waters Corporation: Practical Purification Tactics for Improving Compound Isolation

Practical Purification Tactics for Improving Compound Isolation

Successful techniques to effectively improve lab-scale HPLC purification to isolate and purify important target compounds.