In this episode of ‪ChromatographyTalk‬, ‪Organomation‬ General Manager David Oliva sits down with Imad Haidar Ahmad, Scientific Research Director at Amgen leading separations for Discovery Chemistry and Externalization. Imad's career spans Novartis, Merck, and now Amgen, and his research on computer-assisted method development has landed multiple front covers in Analytical Chemistry.We dig into how his group builds retention models from as few as nine lab experiments to map an entire separation landscape — replacing weeks of trial and error with a resolution map you can query and rebuild from. Imad breaks down where this modeling approach struggles (large molecules, SFC, fully autonomous method development), walks through two-dimensional liquid chromatography in plain terms for anyone who's only worked in 1D, and shares the story behind his group's greenness-score mapping work — including where swapping acetonitrile for methanol worked, and where it didn't.We also talk career advice: what a typical day looks like leading a discovery-stage separations team, how undergrad and grad students can bridge the academia-to-industry gap, and what Imad sees as the field's biggest unsolved problem.<h3>Video Transcription</h3>Chromatographic method development is increasingly moving beyond trial and error toward workflows built on modeling, automation, multidimensional separations, and smarter use of data. In a recent interview, Haidar Ahmad discussed how these approaches are changing pharmaceutical analysis, why understanding the fundamentals of chromatography remains essential, and where some of the biggest opportunities in separation science still lie.Ahmad’s route into analytical chemistry was not entirely planned. As an undergraduate, he initially found inorganic and organic chemistry particularly attractive, but a final-year project focused on the analysis of additives in bread introduced him to the possibilities of analytical chemistry. During his PhD, his research moved into polymer analysis and structure–property relationships. His interest in chromatography deepened when he encountered two-dimensional liquid chromatography (2D-LC), particularly its ability to reveal forms of polymer heterogeneity that could not be adequately characterized using a single separation technique. This eventually led to postdoctoral work with Peter Carr, where Ahmad focused on chromatographic separations and the fundamentals of chromatography.His subsequent career in the pharmaceutical industry exposed him to different stages of drug development, from late-stage method development and validation to drug substance characterization, purification, and finally discovery-stage separations. That breadth of experience has shaped his view of chromatography as both a scientific discipline and a practical problem-solving tool. In late-stage development, the objective may be a highly robust method capable of successful validation and transfer between laboratories. In discovery, by contrast, speed becomes critical because teams may be working with thousands of molecules while trying to identify the best candidates to advance.&nbsp;<h4>Discovery-stage chromatography: speed, prioritization, and throughput</h4>For a separations team supporting drug discovery, the working day is shaped by a constant flow of requests from medicinal chemistry and other partner groups. The challenge is not simply to perform the analyses, but to decide which requests are most urgent, remove bottlenecks, communicate with project teams, and continuously improve existing workflows.According to Ahmad, one of the most important questions is whether a task can be done faster or in a more high-throughput way. Discovery laboratories operate under strong time pressure, and efficiency therefore becomes part of the scientific strategy rather than merely an operational concern. As he describes it, the work combines science, prioritization, leadership, and communication, all with the aim of moving the most important projects forward as quickly as possible.<h4>In silico modeling: letting the computer perform the experiments</h4>One of the central themes of Ahmad’s work is in silico chromatographic modeling. In practical terms, the approach begins with a carefully designed set of laboratory experiments—often around nine runs. The resulting data are fed into software that builds retention models describing how analyte retention changes with variables such as mobile-phase composition and temperature.The software can then generate a resolution map representing a much larger separation space than could realistically be tested experimentally. Instead of running dozens or hundreds of conditions by trial and error, the analyst can identify regions where critical peak pairs are predicted to achieve the best separation.For Ahmad, the value of these maps goes beyond simply finding the condition with the highest resolution. Each point on the map represents a chromatographic condition, while the visual output shows where poor and strong separations are expected. A broad region of good resolution is particularly useful because it points toward a more robust operating space rather than a narrowly defined optimum that might be sensitive to small variations in experimental conditions.He therefore prefers to think of a chromatographic model as a map or database, rather than simply an optimization tool. If an impurity later disappears from the process, the corresponding peak can be removed from the model and new conditions selected without repeating the complete experimental study. Conversely, if a new degradation product appears during stability studies, the peak can be added and the existing model used to search for updated separation conditions.<h4>Why trial and error still has a place</h4>Modeling does not mean that conventional trial-and-error method development has disappeared. Ahmad points out that it remains useful in early discovery, particularly for fit-for-purpose methods where speed is more important than achieving a fully optimized separation.The situation changes later in development. A method intended for validation, transfer, or long-term routine use carries much greater risk. Trial and error may identify a condition that appears satisfactory without revealing whether it represents the most robust region of the separation space. If that method later fails during transfer or routine operation, the consequences can be costly.For late-stage methods, the additional investment required to build a model can therefore reduce risk over the much longer lifetime of the analytical procedure.<h4>Models are only as good as the experiments behind them</h4>Chromatographic modeling is not automatic proof against poor method development. Ahmad compares the technology to a GPS: it is highly useful, but only if the analyst understands where they are trying to go.Careful experimental design remains essential. Incorrect dwell-volume or column-volume information, as well as insufficient column re-equilibration, can produce misleading predictions. Importantly, these problems may not be obvious when the experimental runs used to construct the model are compared with their calculated values. They may emerge only when the software begins predicting new conditions within the modeled design space.Modeling is also easier for some separations than others. Ahmad describes reversed-phase LC of small molecules as comparatively straightforward, while large biomolecules are more challenging because their retention can be highly sensitive to small changes in mobile-phase composition and temperature.Other separation modes present additional difficulties. Ahmad notes that his teams have found supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC) particularly challenging to model successfully. Fully autonomous method development remains another unresolved goal: current tools can automate parts of optimization, but analyst input is still required.<h4>Why two dimensions can reveal what one dimension cannot</h4>Ahmad’s early interest in 2D-LC came from polymer characterization. He explains the principle simply: one-dimensional chromatography may answer one question about a sample, while two complementary dimensions can answer two.Two copolymers, for example, may have similar molecular size and therefore coelute in size-exclusion chromatography. A second separation mechanism based on interaction with a stationary phase may distinguish them according to chemical composition. Combining both dimensions provides a more complete description of complex distributions involving molecular weight, composition, sequence, and other forms of heterogeneity.Historically, the complexity of both instrumentation and software limited wider adoption of 2D-LC. Ahmad recalls systems requiring several computers and multiple software packages. That situation has improved substantially, and 2D-LC is now easier to implement across research and pharmaceutical development.Nevertheless, modeling multidimensional separations still presents challenges. While models can be built for individual fractions or dimensions, current software does not easily identify a common optimum across multiple models simultaneously. Much of this comparison still requires manual work.<h4>Bringing sustainability into method development</h4>Another area where Ahmad sees room for change is green analytical chemistry.Traditional pharmaceutical method development has understandably prioritized resolution, sensitivity, robustness, and turnaround time. Sustainability has often been treated as a secondary consideration, particularly at the analytical scale, where solvent use appears small compared with preparative chromatography or manufacturing.That mindset is beginning to change. Ahmad argues that greenness metrics should increasingly be incorporated directly into method-development software. If analysts could immediately see how changes in flow rate, gradient conditions, solvent choice, or other parameters affect the environmental profile of a method, sustainability could become part of routine optimization rather than an assessment performed after the method has already been developed.The objective, however, is not to pursue the greenest possible method regardless of analytical performance. Ahmad emphasizes the need to develop methods that are as green as possible while remaining fit for purpose. Modeling can potentially help balance these competing requirements by identifying conditions that preserve separation performance while allowing greener solvents or alternative chromatographic conditions to be introduced.<h4>Advice for young chromatographers: do not treat HPLC as a black box</h4>For students learning chromatography, Ahmad’s central recommendation is straightforward: do not treat the HPLC system as a black box.Rather than collecting chromatograms by making random changes, he encourages analysts to build a mental model of the separation. When temperature, gradient, or another parameter is changed, they should ask why retention or selectivity changed and use each experiment to improve their understanding of the system.He also recommends making use of educational resources on chromatographic fundamentals and method development and, importantly, not being afraid to experiment with instrument conditions. Modern systems are robust, but the analyst still needs to understand the underlying separation science in order to use them effectively.The same proactive attitude applies to career development. Ahmad strongly encourages students to seek industry internships and make connections beyond their own institutions. Conferences and poster sessions can provide natural opportunities to meet scientists from industry, discuss research, and ask about internship opportunities. Based on his own experience working with undergraduate and graduate interns, these collaborations can benefit both students and research teams and may strongly influence later academic or career decisions.<h4>What still needs to be solved?</h4>Asked about the biggest unresolved challenges in separation science, Ahmad does not begin with technology. Instead, he points to a shortage of well-trained analytical chemists with a strong understanding of chromatographic fundamentals.Alongside education, he identifies several technical opportunities. One is truly autonomous method development, where an instrument and software could optimize a separation without continuous analyst input. Another is the ability to predict chromatographic selectivity directly from molecular structure.Such capability could be especially valuable in high-throughput discovery environments. If a laboratory could predict which stationary phase and conditions were most likely to separate a particular set of compounds or isomers before entering the laboratory, method development could become considerably faster and more efficient.Taken together, Ahmad’s perspective points toward a future in which chromatography becomes increasingly model-driven, automated, multidimensional, and sustainability-aware. But the technology does not eliminate the need for chromatographic knowledge. On the contrary, as analytical tools become more powerful, understanding the fundamentals may become even more important—the software can explore the separation space, but the scientist still needs to know what question to ask and how to interpret the answer.<blockquote>This text has been automatically transcribed from a video presentation using AI technology. It may contain inaccuracies and is not guaranteed to be 100% correct.</blockquote><blockquote><h4>Concentrating on Chromatography Podcast</h4>Dive into the frontiers of chromatography, mass spectrometry, and sample preparation with host David Oliva. Each episode features candid conversations with leading researchers, industry innovators, and passionate scientists who are shaping the future of analytical chemistry. From decoding PFAS detection challenges to exploring the latest in AI-assisted liquid chromatography, this show uncovers practical workflows, sustainability breakthroughs, and the real-world impact of separation science. Whether you’re a chromatographer, lab professional, or researcher you'll discover inspiring content!You can find Concentrating on Chromatography Podcast in podcast apps:<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1wZg67rCjoGju4yhqxI3tL">Spotify</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://podcasts.apple.com/tz/podcast/concentrating-on-chromatography/id1788429185">Apple podcast</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://podscan.fm/podcasts/concentrating-on-chromatography">podscan</a></li></ul>and on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/@ChromatographyTalk/videos">YouTube channel</a></blockquote>

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

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

How to Extend the Lifetime of HPLC Columns?

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

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

Article

Academy

Scientists

Interview

Science and research

Video

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

CATRIN

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

Phenomenex

Organomation, founded in 1959, designs and manufactures high-quality nitrogen evaporators and extraction systems. Known for innovation and durability, their lab instruments are used globally for efficient sample preparation with strong customer support.

Organomation

Agilent Technologies

Technology Networks

Unchained Labs

Bruker

SCIEX

Evosep Biosystems

Waters Corporation

Size exclusion chromatography (SEC) is a noninteractive technique that separates solutes according to their molecular size in non-denaturing conditions. It is often used as the first step in isolation of a protein from a crude sample.
We will discuss the theory behind SEC, overview of mAbs, and characterization requirements; with a focus specifically on the effect of solute size and molecular weight, general rules for using SEC, column selection choices, important mobile phase considerations, and column care. We will explore method development pointers in the troubleshooting section.
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Presenter: Mohit Patel (Application Engineer, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
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Mohit Patel is part of the CSD Online AE Team. His primary focus is to support SMLC, Bio-Columns, and consumables.
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Before joining Agilent, Mohit was an Assistant Professor of Chemistry at Temple University. Mohit developed his passion for science through his experiences as a faculty researcher and a mentor. Mohit actively taught, developed curriculum, and served as senior personnel, with a leadership position, on funded grants, mentored research projects, and co-coordinator of STEAM related outreach services.
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Mohit has earned a Doctorate degree in Chemistry from Temple University in 2016.
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Agilent Technologies: SEC Overview and Method Development for Biomolecules

SEC Overview and Method Development for Biomolecules

We will discuss the theory behind SEC, overview of mAbs, and characterization requirements.

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? 
<ul>
<li>Those interested in a refresher on foundational principles and tips for bioseparations </li>
<li>Those revisiting which columns and mobile phases are optimal for which workflows </li>
<li>Those looking for an overview of industry advancements and new offerings</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
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: Zerene Manaloto (Chemistry Products Marketing Manager, Waters Corporation)
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Zerene is a Chemistry Product Marketing Manager within the Americas Field Marketing team. She holds a Chemical Engineering Bachelor’s degree from Stevens Institute of Technology. Early in her career, Zerene was a research scientist at Bristol-Myers Squibb in Process Research &amp; Development involved in preparative scale purification and glass plant operations to support IND and clinical supplies of drug candidates. Prior to joining Waters, Zerene was in consumable field sales, supporting key accounts and customers within the pharmaceutical and clinical industries.
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Waters Corporation: CHROMATOGRAPHY OF BIOSEPARATIONS 101 WEBINAR SERIES

FOUNDATIONS OF REVERSE PHASE SEPARATIONS FOR PEPTIDES AND PROTEINS

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

REVERSE PHASE SEPARATIONS FOR PEPTIDES AND PROTEINS

Tissue homogenization and cell lysis are crucial steps in protein extraction for LC-MS-based proteomics and many other research applications.
During this webinar, you will discover ways to improve your protein extraction, such as by reducing workflow complexity, improving results from scarce samples, setting up robust assays and working with large sample cohorts. But why stop here?
We will also show how the full sample preparation workflow for LC-MS-based proteomics can be standardized and simplified with the BeatBox platform, which was developed for a wide variety of sample matrices and input ranges as well as how this can be applied to research such as cancer biomarker identification.
Attend this webinar to:
<ul>
<li>Learn how to obtain reliable results through reproducible sample homogenization, even for challenging proteomics projects</li>
<li>Explore how to simplify and standardize the full sample preparation workflow for LC-MS-based proteomics</li>
<li>Discover how the BeatBox, a novel tissue homogenizer and cell lyser, can help you to efficiently extract proteins from a wide range of tissue and cell types</li>
</ul>
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Presenter: Jasmin Johansson (Application Scientist, PreOmics)
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Presenter: Dr. Silvia Wuertenberger (Product Manager, PreOmics)
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Technology Networks: Streamlining Protein Extraction for Proteomics and Beyond

Streamlining Protein Extraction for Proteomics and Beyond

You will discover ways to improve your protein extraction, such as by reducing workflow complexity, improving results from scarce samples ...

Charge heterogeneity is often a critical quality attribute, which must be monitored throughout the development of a therapeutic protein and during quality ontrol release. Currently, there is an industrial need to achieve an increased throughput of charge heterogeneity analysis without a loss of resolution using standard methodologies such as capillary electrophoresis.
In this webinar, we will demonstrate that this task can be mastered using both capillary isoelectric focusing (cIEF) and capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) analyses, as employed by the BioPhase 8800 system from SCIEX. We will compare the analysis of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) on the BioPhase 8800 system with SCIEX standard PA 800 plus system, including an illustration of how the CZE application can be used on the BioPhase 8800 system, which was recently tested for the first time.
Attend this webinar to:
<ul>
<li>Hear about the importance of high-throughput technologies when analyzing biotherapeutics</li>
<li>Discover how cIEF and CZE can be used to analyze mAbs</li>
<li>Learn the differences in analytical performance between the BioPhase 8800 system and the PA 800 plus system</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Anna Rozhkova (Manager Analytical Develop Group / Group Head, CSL Behring Innovation GmbH)
</blockquote>

Technology Networks: High-Throughput Charge Variant Analysis of Therapeutic Proteins

High-Throughput Charge Variant Analysis of Therapeutic Proteins

We will demonstrate that this task can be mastered using both capillary isoelectric focusing (cIEF) and capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) analyses.

High-Throughput Charge Variant An. of Therapeutic Proteins

Sepsis is a growing global challenge due to factors such as high mortality rate and the increasing prevalence of antimicrobial resistance.
<h4>A single and rapid Zeno SWATH DIA proteomic analysis for concomitant identification and antibiotic resistance profiling of micro-organisms from positive blood cultures</h4>
<ul>
<li>Presenter: Iulia MACAVEI, PhD (student in Analytical Chemistry, Biological Analysis and Mass Spectrometry, University of lyon)</li>
</ul>
Today, approximately 1.3 million people die each year worldwide from bacterial antimicrobial resistance (AMR). AMR is of great concern in the context of bloodstream infections (BSIs) when it evolves into sepsis. If MALDI-TOF has markedly shortened the delay of the pathogen identification step, AMR evaluation is still based on growth tests in the presence of antibiotics. With the aim of streamlining this turnaround time to less than 90min from a positive blood culture, the LC/Zeno SWATH DIA sensitivity and specificity performances were evaluated to concomitantly provide the identity and antibiotic resistance profile of etiological agents related to BSIs based on peptide surrogates.
<h4>Plasma proteomic landscape and patient heterogeneity in sepsis revealed by high-throughput mass spectrometry</h4>
<ul>
<li>Presenter: Dr. Yuxin Mi (Researcher at Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford)</li>
</ul>
Incomplete knowledge of the sepsis plasma proteome has limited our understanding of pathophysiology in the heterogeneous syndrome of sepsis. Here we apply high-throughput liquid chromatography – tandem mass spectrometry to delineate the plasma proteome for sepsis and comparator groups, involving 2622 samples in a single batch. We show how this scale of data can establish shared and specific proteins, pathways and co-expression modules in sepsis, and be integrated with paired leukocyte transcriptomic data. This work reveals novel subphenotypes informative for the response state and differential outcome, highlighting opportunities for a systems-based precision medicine approach to sepsis.

SEPSIS

In this webinar we will uncover how our users combine technology with the Evosep One to further research into sepsis and its biomarkers.

Evosep SEPSIS

The meeting will dive into the topic of Dissolution Testing of semisolid formulations and spotlight on the most relevant instruments/accessories available. We will also discuss some tips and tricks for the method development of semisolids.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Karen Krauel-Göllner, PhD (Product Manager Dissolution, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Karen Krauel-Göllner is a registered pharmacist and holds a PhD in Pharmacy from the University of Otago, New Zealand. Karen has worked in various roles in the field of pharmaceutical development. For the last 5 years she has been working with Agilent Technologies and currently holds a position as product manager for dissolution systems.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Ken Boda (Dissolution Product Specialist, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Ken joined Varian (now Agilent) in 2005 as an Applications Engineer and is now a Dissolution Product Specialist. Prior to working at Agilent, he worked in pharma specializing in dissolution testing and method development. As a Dissolution Product Specialist, Ken works with customers in determining the best systems for their needs and optimizing their work flows. He has also helped educate customers on dissolution science through webinars, the Dissolution Discussion Group, LinkedIn, and other channels.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Bryan Crist (President, DissoAssist Consulting)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Bryan is currently the president of DissoAssist consulting based in Wilmington, NC since 2021. He provides consulting, coaching, and training services for dissolution and drug release in the pharmaceutical industry, specifically, the areas of product and method development and validation, technology transfer, regulatory and compendial compliance, automation, troubleshooting, aberrant data investigation, apparatus and instrument qualification, SOP development, and laboratory audits.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Previously, Bryan was a Scientific Affairs Manager with Agilent Technologies located in Cary, North Carolina, USA. His activities from 1997 until 2021 had focused on providing method and technical application support for dissolution and drug release testing in the pharmaceutical industry as well as working with VanKel, Varian and eventually Agilent R&amp;D, Marketing and Sales teams. Prior to 1997, Bryan performed analytical testing, supervised, and managed pharmaceutical laboratories with Bristol-Myers Squibb, Merck, AAI and Abbott Laboratories until he joined the dissolution equipment manufacturer VanKel.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Bryan has developed and routinely conducts numerous seminars related to dissolution and drug release testing. He’s provided numerous talks at exhibitions and conferences and has published numerous articles in journals and book chapters on dissolution related techniques and topics. He received his B.S. degree in Chemistry from Atlantic Christian College in Wilson, North Carolina. Bryan has been a former member of the USP Biopharmaceutics Expert Committee and is presently a member of several USP Expert Panels on Performance Verification Testing, Capsules, Performance Tests for Semisolid Dosage Forms and Solubility Criteria for Veterinary Drugs. He’s a Steering Committee member of the AAPS In-Vitro Release Dissolution Testing (IVRDT) Community Leadership Team, co-founder and co-moderator of the Dissolution Discussion Group (DDG) and is a current member of the American Chemical Society.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Vivian Gray (Founder VA Gray Consulting; Managing Director of Dissolution Technologies)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Vivian has spent the last 40+ years involved in all aspects of dissolution testing and evaluating new dissolution technology. At the United States Pharmacopeia, she enjoyed a long career serving first as a bench chemist, supervisor and lastly as a liaison to various expert USP committees, including the Biopharmaceutics and Dissolution Expert Committee. In 1997, Vivian joined the DuPont-Merck Pharmaceuticals Company Analytical Research and Development Section as the Head of the Dissolution Group.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Vivian has been an invited speaker for conferences on 70 occasions (28 of these were international invitations), lecturing especially in the areas of dissolution method development and validation, FDA requirements in dissolution testing, troubleshooting dissolution method problems, and new dissolution technology and dosage forms. She is a proactive participant in the field as demonstrated by 54 publications, including 6 book chapters. Vivian has co-authored a book on dissolution testing called “Handbook of Dissolution Testing”, Third Edition, published in 2004.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Revisions to USP chapter 1724 - Dissolution Testing of Semisolids

Revisions to USP chapter 1724 - Dissolution Testing of Semisolids

Join us to get an update on the latest changes and additions to USP chapter <1724>.

Rev. to USP chapter 1724 - Dissolution Testing of Semisolids

The ZenoTOF 7600 system was ranked the most innovative technology by The Analytical Scientist for its ability to help scientists address analytical challenges across many markets. Zeno trap coupled with electron activated dissociation (EAD) fragmentation technology unlocks sensitivity gains allowing you to uncover new information for certainty in your results to make better-informed decisions, faster.
Highlights of this technology:
<ul>
<li>Drive new limits of quantification achievable with accurate mass</li>
<li>Detect up to 20x more ions in every experiment</li>
<li>Deliver high depth of coverage on low abundance species, quickly and robustly with Zeno SWATH data-independent acquisition (DIA)</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Bhavya Shukla (Sales Development Manager, SCIEX)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Bhavya Shukla, Sales Development Manager at SCIEX has more than 8 years of experience in the analytical industry. He pursued his post-graduation in chemical engineering from the Institute of Chemical Technology Mumbai. His major role is to support LCMS users by providing them optimal solutions through a keen understanding of their needs.
</blockquote>

SCIEX: Leveraging the power of Zeno trap and EAD

Leveraging the power of Zeno trap and EAD

Zeno trap coupled with electron activated dissociation (EAD) fragmentation technology unlocks sensitivity gains allowing you to uncover new information

<h3>QTOF/DART® - MS Applications for Microplastic Characterization and Screening</h3>
Are you interested in the impact of microplastics on the environment and human health? If so, then join us for a live virtual demo about the latest advancements in microplastics analysis and characterization. Bruker Labs is proud to present its cutting-edge QTOF-MS and newly acquired DART® technology, which are being used to screen and characterize polymers and additives, and examine leachable workflows in microplastics.
Microplastics are small plastic particles that are prevalent in the environment and come from a variety of sources, including cosmetics, clothing, water bottles, and other sources of plastic waste. With the improvement of QTOF Mass Spectrometry technology, scientists can now identify and screen complex mixtures and unknown compounds with high resolution and high mass accuracy. Furthermore, Bruker&#39;s DART® technology allows for rapid fingerprinting of environmental microplastics and the screening of additives.
This webinar will focus on several plastic samples, including virgin pre-production pellets, microbeads from personal care products, microplastics found in the aquatic environment, and synthetic fibers. The resulting mass spectra will display thousands of discrete peaks, corresponding to plastic additives released by thermal desorption.
<blockquote>
Presenter: William Fatigante (Applications Scientist with a focus on screening and confirmation using DART®-MS)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Kushal Modi (Business Development Manager, Polymers)
</blockquote>

Bruker:  Bruker Live from the Lab: Rapid Analysis of Microplastics

 Bruker Live from the Lab: Rapid Analysis of Microplastics

Plastic samples: virgin pre-production pellets, microbeads from personal care products, microplastics found in the aquatic environment, and synthetic fibers.

Unlock new perspectives with our accurate mass 101 webinar series.
Accelerate your workflows and expand your knowledge around accurate mass with these informative webinars.
In this webinar series, SCIEX applications scientists will explain the benefits of using accurate mass, sample analysis, instrument operation and data processing in real-time.
Get the inside scoop and register today!
<h3>Accurate mass 101: fundamentals</h3>
Accurate mass analysis coupled with liquid chromatography is a powerful qualitative and quantitative tool that offers a high degree of specificity, versatility and sensitivity. Make your experience using accurate mass more powerful by attending this webinar to gain a solid understanding of the fundamentals around this technology. We’ll start with an in-depth look at what it is, how it works, acquisition and workflow capabilities, and commonly used terminology.

Accurate mass 101: fundamentals

SCIEX applications scientists will explain the benefits of using accurate mass, sample analysis, instrument operation and data processing in real-time.

<h5>The Problem&nbsp;</h5>When working with adenovirus (AdV) vectors it’s a big deal to get fast answers on capsid titer, empty/full ratio, and if things are aggregated. UV/Vis absorbance at 260 nm (A260) is considered the quickest check of AdV titer – but it requires denaturing your AdV, easily making it a 30 minute assay. On top of that, A260 results get thrown off by protein, DNA contamination, or just about anything else that absorbs. Other more technical methods to get titer, like qPCR, are too slow, hands-on or sample-hungry, and none are ready for a quick, easy check of your adenovirus sample.<h5>The Solution&nbsp;</h5>Stunner’s unique combination of UV/Vis with static and dynamic light scattering (SLS &amp; DLS) gives researchers a full read-out on AdV titer, empty/full ratio, and aggregation – in about a minute using only 2 µL.<h5>The Proof&nbsp;</h5>In this seminar you’ll learn how Stunner delivers dye-free, standard-free, and hassle-free titers down to 1E9 vp/mL, and checks the size and aggregation of 96 samples in just 1 hour. We’ll look at all the info Stunner delivers, how these can be used for adenoviral vector sample QC, and how adenovirus from a bunch of different vendors stacks up. &nbsp;<blockquote>Presenter:&nbsp;Nelis Denys (Product Manager, Unchained Labs)Moderator: Kevin Lance PhD (Marketing Manager, Analytical Instruments, Unchained Labs)</blockquote>

Unchained Labs: Snag spot-on adenovirus titers & empty/full ratios with Stunner

Snag spot-on adenovirus titers & empty/full ratios with Stunner

Join our webinar and check out concentration, labeling, stability, and viscosity data of a mAb and its conjugate. 