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

The Analytical Scientist

Agilent Technologies

Wiley

C&EN

Shimadzu Corporation

Waters Corporation

CHROMATOGRAPHY OF BIOSEPARATIONS 101 WEBINAR SERIES
This webinar series will cover the foundations of chromatography for the separation and analysis of peptides and proteins. Understanding the fundamentals of bioseparations will enable you to develop methods more efficiently. At the end of this series, you will be up to date on cutting edge principles and innovations surrounding bioseparations.
Who should attend? 
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Presenter: Bill Warren (Principal Product Manager – Chemistry Technology Center, Waters Corporation)
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<blockquote>
Bill received his Masters in Microbiology and Immunology from University of Louisville School of Medicine. In 1986, he joined Waters Corporation as a senior applications chemist involved with the research and development of HPLC, FPLC, and Capillary Electrophoresis applications for the analysis and purification of proteins, peptides, and nucleic acids. Following four years as a field based technical sales representative for Waters, Bill enjoyed a tenure as Manager, Core Product Evaluation Laboratory within the Waters Worldwide Marketing Organization. Bill currently is a Principal Bioseparation Columns Product Manager whose responsibilities involve assisting in the development and commercialization of innovative reagents and chromatography-based technologies for the separation, purification, and characterization of proteins and peptides.
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HOST: Ravali Alagandula (Chemistry Products Marketing Manager, Americas Field Marketing, Waters Corporation)
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Ravali is a ChemistryProduct Marketing Manager within the Americas Field Marketing team at Waters. 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.
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Waters Corporation: CHROMATOGRAPHY OF BIOSEPARATIONS 101 WEBINAR SERIES

ION-EXCHANGE SEPARATIONS AND BEST PRACTICES FOR SALTY SEPARATIONS

This webinar series will cover the foundations of chromatography for the separation and analysis of peptides and proteins.

ION-EXCHANGE SEPARATIONS AND BEST PRACTICES

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.)
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<blockquote>
Mark, an Application Scientist for Agilent Technologies, has over 30 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.
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Agilnt Technologies: UV-Vis Instrumentation : From Routine to Advanced Applications Part I

UV-Vis Instrumentation : From Routine to Advanced Applications Part I

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.

UV-Vis Instrumentation : From Routine to Advanced Apps

Key learning objectives
<ul>
<li>Solutions through
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<li>Liquid Chromatography (LC) Column Technology
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<li>Gas Chromatography (GC) Column Technology
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<li>Pesticides
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Presenter: Darshan Engineer (Senior Business Development Manager)
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Phenomenex: Chromatographic Solution for Food, Nutraceuticals & Vitamin Analysis

Chromatographic Solution for Food, Nutraceuticals & Vitamin Analysis

Liquid Chromatography (LC) Column Technology & Gas Chromatography (GC) Column Technology...

Chromatographic Solution for Food, Nutraceuticals & Vitamins

Working with spectral and chromatographic data often results in noisy data. The good news is, there is a simple and efficient way to extract the signals from the noise, enabling a deeper and better understanding of processes and products.
If you are working on product or process development problems, you might need to utilise spectral and chromatographic data to understand and confirm that the process is performing optimally and generates the desired product. Frequently, we may summarise these data by using estimates based on peak height, position, and shape. But using these summaries inevitably causes us to lose some information about our process. This can reduce the insights we gain from our data analysis process and can negatively impact the quality of our decisions.
Spectral and related data are inherently noisy. This webinar will present a simple and efficient way of extracting the signals from the noise for a deeper, better understanding of your processes and products. If you are a scientist or engineer collecting spectral, chromatographic, or similar data and want to gain deeper insight into the trends and outcomes, this webinar is for you.
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Presenter: Florian Vogt (Systems Engineer JMP, JMP Statistical Discovery)
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Before joining SAS Institute, Florian worked as a process engineer in research and development at Südzucker AG, where he was involved in process optimization, product development and process evaluation. Florian Vogt holds a Master of Science in Biotechnology.
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<blockquote>
Presenter: Emmanuel Romeu (Systems Engineer JMP, JMP Statistical Discovery)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Emmanuel is a pre-sales consultant for the chemical industry. Prior to joining JMP, Emmanuel worked for 25 years at Beckman-Coulter &gt; Diagnostic where he successively worked in industrialization, R&amp;D in medical diagnostics and finally as a statistician. He graduated in biological engineering from the University of Clermont-Ferrand and in statistics from the University of Strasbourg.
</blockquote>

Unsplash/Mika Baumeister: Making better use of Spectral and Chromatographic Data in product and process development

Making better use of Spectral and Chromatographic Data in product and process development

This webinar will present a simple and efficient way of extracting the signals from the noise for a deeper, better understanding of your processes and products.

Making better use of Spectral and Chromatographic Data

While the world of R&amp;D is moving towards digitalization, the unique challenges of analytical data management continue to cause difficulties.
In our 2022 Analytical data management survey we learned and confirmed that…
<ul>
<li>Analytical data is diverse with multiple techniques, instrument vendors, and software
</li>
<li>It is stored and managed in many applications
</li>
<li>The majority still find it difficult to access and share
</li>
</ul>
Analytical data is ingrained in numerous research, development, and QA/QC workflows. While a small minority are starting to apply it for data science applications, most struggle to provide easy digital access for its most common uses.
Join our panel of experts as they discuss the results of the 2022 survey; the challenges related to analytical data that cross organizations and industries; and lessons learned through their own experience.
Webinar Learning Objectives:
<ul>
<li>How analytical data heterogeneity can be addressed</li>
<li>Attributes of effectively managed analytical data</li>
<li>Considerations for using analytical data for data science projects</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Nichola Davies (Director Structural Chemistry UK, Oncology R&amp;D, Astra Zeneca)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Nichola Davies completed her PhD studies in physical organic chemistry at the University of Cambridge, utilising NMR spectroscopy to investigate positively cooperative binding and the tightening of non-covalent bonds. Nichola then joined Pfizer (Sandwich, UK) as an NMR spectroscopist supporting the medicinal chemistry department, and implemented new techniques for structure elucidation and the application of novel NMR methodologies to support medicinal chemistry design strategies.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Having gained further experience in a wider range of analytical techniques, in 2014 she joined AstraZeneca (Cambridge, UK), as an NMR expert within the Oncology Chemistry R&amp;D Unit. Currently, as Director of the Structural Chemistry team, Nichola is delivering analytical techniques to support small molecule structural characterisation, purity and stability assessment, in addition to NMR free ligand conformational analysis and in-cell MS concentration assays.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Mark Kwasnik (Global Product Manager, Analytical Labs, Solvay)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Mark Kwasnik is the Global Product Manager for the Analytical Labs at Solvay. In his role, Mark leverages digital tools in R&amp;I to reduce inefficiencies, increase responsiveness for customers. He works to accelerate the growth innovation pipeline by allowing the company’s scientists to access and use the thousands of data sets that are generated in Solvay’s R&amp;I labs.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Prior to his transfer to Solvay&#39;s digital department, he worked as an Analytical Lab Manager for the North American R&amp;D Center and as the Global Digital Transformation Manager for the Specialty Polymer business unit.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Mark received his B.S. in chemistry and forensic science from the University of Central Florida and a PhD in Analytical Chemistry, with a focus in BioAnalytical Mass Spectrometry, instrumentation development and informatics at the Georgia Institute of Technology.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Graham A. McGibbon (Director, Strategic Partnerships, ACD/Labs)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Graham A. McGibbon is currently Manager of Scientific Solutions and Partnerships at Advanced Chemistry Development (ACD/Labs), a role which involves shaping innovative solutions with people in various industries, government organizations, academic institutions and enhancing relationships with organizations that supply analytical instrumentation and/or software.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Since obtaining a Ph.D. in Chemistry from McMaster University (Canada) Graham worked in drug discovery research at Boehringer Ingelheim conducting MS analyses of both small and large molecules; and researched modifications and interactions of bioactive small molecules and biopolymers as a faculty member at McMaster. Graham initially joined ACD/labs in 2007 as Product Manager leading the development of mass spectrometry software.
</blockquote>

The Analytical Scientist: How to Overcome the Challenges of Analytical Data Management

How to Overcome the Challenges of Analytical Data Management

The challenges related to analytical data that cross organizations and industries; and lessons learned through their own experience.

Recent advances in deep generative modeling have enabled breakthroughs in realistic image, voice and text synthesis. Similar breakthroughs in chromatogram, mass spectra and metabolomics data generation are on the near horizon.
In this webinar, we’ll discuss recent work in the development of deep generative modeling algorithms to enable chromatogram cleaning, de novo compound identification and metabolomics data synthesis and disentanglement.
Attend this webinar to:
<ul>
<li>Learn about the actively investigated machine learning paradigm of deep generative modeling</li>
<li>Understand the impact of deep generative modeling in computational mass spectrometry including in de novo compound identification</li>
<li>Discover how deep generative modeling can facilitate better understanding and biological interpretation of metabolomics data</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Douglas McCloskey (Independent Consultant)
</blockquote>

Technology Networks: Deep Generative Modeling in Computational Mass Spectrometry and Metabolomics

Deep Generative Modeling in Computational Mass Spectrometry and Metabolomics

The development of deep generative modeling algorithms to enable chromatogram cleaning, de novo compound identification and metabolomics.

Computational Mass Spectrometry and Metabolomics

One of the key challenges during process development and production of biologics is the timely determination of essential product attributes. Rapid feedback of product-relevant characteristics simplifies and accelerates process development and scale-up, then helps ensure product yield and quality during full-scale manufacturing.
﻿We present the use of real-time multi-angle light scattering (RT-MALS) as a process analytical technology to optimize process development of viral vectors. RT-MALS determines the biophysical properties size, molar mass and concentration of virions or nanoparticles. The application of RT-MALS in downstream processing of viral vectors is shown and discussed. 
Key Learning Objectives:
<ul>
<li>Introduction to real-time MALS (RT-MALS)</li>
<li>How RT-MALS determines the biophysical properties size, molar mass and concentration of virions or nanoparticles</li>
<li>Application of RT-MALS for viral vectors</li>
</ul>
Who Should Attend:
<ul>
<li>Bio/pharmaceutical scientists responsible for process analytical technology (PAT), downstream processing, process development and production of biologics</li>
<li>Process engineers seeking solutions for monitoring viral vectors or nanoparticle production processes</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Clara Pérez Peinado (Senior Scientist, Biophysics and Process Analytics Team, Janssen Vaccines &amp; Prevention B.V)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Felix Deluweit (Senior Application Scientist, Wyatt Technology Corp.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Kelly McSweeney (Contributing Editor, C&amp;EN Media Group)
</blockquote>

C&EN: Real-Time Analysis of Product Attributes in Downstream Processing of Viral Vectors

Real-Time Analysis of Product Attributes in Downstream Processing of Viral Vectors

﻿We present the use of real-time multi-angle light scattering (RT-MALS) as a process analytical technology to optimize process development of viral vectors.

RTAnalysis in Downstream Processing of Viral Vectors

The identification of extractables, leachables and chemical migration is a challenge for manufacturers and suppliers of packaging materials, medical devices and food contact materials. E&amp;L analytics is already complex, but it is compounded by legislative and regulatory efforts to recycle plastics. Analytical methods need to screen for not only the known components but also identify degradants and other unexpected compounds. Manufacturers, producers and retailers face the challenge of keeping up with evolving requirements and developing and adapting strategies to reduce plastic waste.
Thus, ways are being explored to incorporate more recycled plastics into products and packaging while maintaining excellent safety, quality and performance characteristics. As they innovate and combine new materials, companies must demonstrate safety and confirm compliance before bringing their products to market. This again increases the demand and importance of highly effective analytics.
Participation is free of charge. Presentations delivered in English.
Register now for this virtual event and share knowledge and challenges with peers and E&amp;L experts.
Who Should Attend?
The webinars are focused on the needs of scientists working in the area of Extractables &amp; Leachables and Food Contact Materials. During these webinars, attendees will learn:
<ul>
<li>Upcoming and new regulations in the field of food, pharma, biopharma and medical devices</li>
<li>Targeted and non-targeted screening workflows by using Waters_Connect</li>
<li>Characterization and structural elucidation of unknowns</li>
<li>Choice of chromatographic techniques, extraction methods and analytical standards &amp; reagents</li>
</ul>
<h3>EPISODE 1 - Virtual European Workshop on Extractables &amp; Leachables for Pharma &amp; Biopharma</h3>
<h5>Presentation: A risk-based assessment approach to extractable/leachable studies of plastic components and systems used in (bio)pharmaceutical manufacturing</h5>
<h5>Presentation: The Pattern Targeting Application</h5>
Register now &amp; join the discussion!
<blockquote>
Presenter: Lijun Song (Bioprocess Validations Specialist, 3M)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Lijun Song is a Senior Validation Engineer at the 3M filtration validation laboratory located in Belgium. After her PhD in Medicinal Chemistry at Ghent University, she joined the 3M validation team in 2019. She focuses on filter compatibility validation and extractable/leachable studies.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Mike Ludlow (Science Lead working in the CMCAnalytical and Materials Science Team, Drug Development Solutions (part of Alliance Pharma Inc))
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Mike Ludlow is the Science Lead working in the CMCAnalytical and Materials Science Team within Drug Development solutions based in Cambridgeshire, UK (Formerly known as LGC). The team supports an extensive external client base providing a variety of chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques covering both organic and inorganic characterisation. He has over 20 year’s experience in pharmaceutical analysis primarily in the areas of extractables and leachables testing and the identification of impurities such as Nitrosamines in a GxP environment. Before working for DDS, he worked in the Corporate Analytical Function of ICI’s Chemicals and Polymers Division providing support to R&amp;D scientists developing speciality polymer products.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Jeff Goshawk (Applied Informatics, Research &amp; Development, Waters Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Jeff holds a BSc degree in Mathematics from the University of Portsmouth and a PhD in Applied Mathematics from the University of Liverpool. He joined Micromass as a software developer in July 2000 and worked on the development of MassLynx and the application managers ChromaLynx, MarkerLynx and MetaboLynx. In 2013 Jeff changed role joining the Waters Scientific Operations organisation as a member of the toxicology group and was exposed to the disciplines of sample preparation and sample acquisition in addition to developing data processing workflows using UNIFI. In 2017 Jeff transitioned into the Applied Informatics group in Scientific Operations to help to solve problems not addressed by mainstream software solutions. It was in this role that development on the Pattern Targeting Application began.
</blockquote>

Waters Corporation: Virtual European Workshops on Extractables & Leachables for Pharma & Biopharma

Virtual European Workshops on Extractables & Leachables for Pharma & Biopharma

Register now for this virtual event and share knowledge and challenges with peers and E&L experts.

Extractables & Leachables for Pharma & Biopharma

The next evolution in separation science is here as you go beyond the proper engineering of an LC system, the primary concern becomes the interaction of your analytes with elements in the instrument flow path. The Waters ACQUITY Premier UPLC System features MaxPeak High Performance Surfaces (HPS) Technology, which offers improvements in separation and detection of chemically complex analytes, enabling you to minimize the risk of undetected analytes – for increased efficiency and confidence in your results.
The ACQUITY Premier system minimizes the analyte loss, improving recovery, and limits of detection. Pairing with any Waters Mass Spectrometer, the ACQUITY Premier system enables you to confidently identify and quantify unknown compounds in complex samples and confirm trace components at the lowest possible levels.
Takeaways from this webinar will be:
<ul>
<li>HPS Technology: Using Surface Science Innovations to Reduce Bias in Chromatographic separations.</li>
<li>Automate workflows from development to manufacturing.</li>
<li>Observing the Impacts of MaxPeak Premier technology in Bioseperations in Peptide analysis, Glycans, and Oligos.</li>
</ul>
Who Should Attend?
<ul>
<li>Lab managers</li>
<li>General manager</li>
<li>Manager</li>
<li>Team lead</li>
<li>Scientist</li>
<li>Analyst</li>
<li>Chemist</li>
<li>Group Leaders</li>
<li>Research associate/ assistant</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Mr. Manimaran U (Asst. Product Manager- Biopharma, Waters India Pvt Ltd - Bengaluru)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Moderator: Ms. Daya (Executive - Marketing Support, Demand Generation, Waters India Pvt Ltd - Bengaluru)
</blockquote>

Waters Corporation: Improving Chromatographic performance to next level with Waters Premier technology

Improving Chromatographic performance to next level with Waters Premier technology

The ACQUITY Premier system minimizes the analyte loss, improving recovery, and limits of detection.

Waters Premier technology

This webinar will demonstrate an LC-MS system that can perform both LC-MS analysis and LC-UV analysis. This single quad has a small footprint that allows it to adapt to different needs. With the following features, it is hoped that LC-MS will be more commonly used to analyze API, impurities, and perform quality control.
<ul>
<li>A novel deconvolution algorithm named &quot;Mass-it&quot; to identify the peaks</li>
<li>Dual Ion Source (DUIS) for simultaneous ESI/APCI ionization</li>
<li>Artificial intelligence for peak integration of mix samples</li>
<li>Contamination proof robustness</li>
<li>Reliability through automation, starting, cleaning, shutting down, etc.</li>
<li>Six minutes vacuum startup</li>
<li>Less than 3 milliseconds polarity switching</li>
</ul>
We will host a Q&amp;A session after the presentation to address any questions or comments.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Mridul Mandal, Ph.D. (Market Manager, Shimadzu Scientific Instruments)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Mridul Mandal, Ph.D. is currently working as a market manager -pharma/biopharma at Shimadzu Scientific Instruments. Before entering this position, he held numerous roles in academia and pharma CRO for over 12 years. He has published over 30 peer-reviewed publications and book chapters on mass spectrometry, chromatography, and other instrumentation in biomedical science
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Brian Domanski (Strategic Collaboration Scientist, Shimadzu Scientific Instruments)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Brian has over 10 years working to provide LC and SFC solutions for Pharma, as well as experience with a wide range of chromatography techniques including RP, NP, HILIC, IEX, SEC/GPC, and IC. His focus also includes scalable Informatics and Data Integrity solutions.
</blockquote>

Shimadzu: Revolutionary Single Quad LC-MS for Drug Development and Quality Control

Revolutionary Single Quad LC-MS for Drug Development and Quality Control

This webinar will demonstrate an LC-MS system that can perform both LC-MS analysis and LC-UV analysis.