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

Bruker

Shimadzu Corporation

When it comes to LC analysis, a common question for users is, “Which LC column should I choose?” The column is the heart of the LC system, which plays a pivotal role in ensuring high-resolution separation. The fundamental knowledge of column selection can hence help you decide the optimal column for your specific application.
In this second series of Understanding LC Columns webinar, we will introduce the different mode of separation in liquid chromatography including reversed phase, normal phase and HILIC. We will discuss some of the common applications for each of these separation techniques. The difference in column chemistry and column specifications can significantly impact your separation. This webinar will also cover the different column chemistry and the considerations when selecting a column for the different applications.
Learning Objectives
<ul>
<li>Understand the different mode of separation and their application in liquid chromatography.</li>
<li>Understand the different column chemistry and their separation mechanisms.</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Derrick Tan (Application Chemist (Consumables), Shimadzu (Asia Pacific) Pte Ltd)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Derrick Tan obtained his PhD in chemistry from Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. He has more than 7 years of research experience in small molecules, nucleic acids, peptides and protein synthesis, separation and purification. He joined Shimadzu (Asia Pacific) Pte Ltd in 2021 as an Application Chemist (Consumables). At Shimadzu, he is responsible for the technical support and application of consumables in chromatography and spectroscopy. Products include LC and GC columns, UV/Vis cuvettes, sample vials and accessories.
</blockquote>

Shimadzu: Understanding LC Columns - Difference in Column Types and Phases

Understanding LC Columns - Difference in Column Types and Phases

We will introduce the different mode of separation in liquid chromatography including reversed phase, normal phase and HILIC.

Understanding LC Columns - Column Types and Phases

In UV-VIS-NIR spectroscopy, there is a wide range of instruments available that cover all measurements from routine to research.
We will discuss in this presentation some of the key performance differentiators between spectrometers as well as the impact that these have on measurement capabilities.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Scott Melis, PhD (Application Scientist, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Scott Melis has a PHD in Physics from Georgetown University in Washington, DC and started with Agilent in 2021 as a Molecular Spectroscopy Application Scientist. In his graduate work, Scott studied nanoparticle formation and growth for a variety of applications. Projects that he worked with include developing processes to deposit and characterize semiconducting molecular nano-cocrystals for use in optoelectronic devices as well as controlling polymer nanoparticle size through rapid mixing conditions.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Picking the Right UV-Vis-NIR For Me: What Specs Do I Need?

Picking the Right UV-Vis-NIR For Me: What Specs Do I Need?

Key performance differentiators between UV-VIS-NIR spectrometers as well as the impact that these have on measurement capabilities.

How do I collect a UV-VIS Baseline? Why is my concentration curve non-linear? What amount of averaging do I need to do?
Join us in this webinar where we will discuss some of the most common questions for UV-VIS data collection.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Scott Melis, PhD (Application Scientist, gilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Scott Melis has a PHD in Physics from Georgetown University in Washington, DC and started with Agilent in 2021 as a Molecular Spectroscopy Application Scientist. In his graduate work, Scott studied nanoparticle formation and growth for a variety of applications. Projects that he worked with include developing processes to deposit and characterize semiconducting molecular nano-cocrystals for use in optoelectronic devices as well as controlling polymer nanoparticle size through rapid mixing conditions.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Common UV-Vis Questions Answered

Common UV-Vis Questions Answered

Join us in this webinar where we will discuss some of the most common questions for UV-VIS data collection.

Join us on 18 &amp; 19 January for two half days of virtual presentations as we help you to navigate the every day challenges faced with the analysis of oligonucleotides. Presented by experts in the industry and the Agilent biopharma team, these short talks are designed to educate and provide insight from basic oligonucleotide assessment, through to the more advanced applications. Q&amp;A sessions will follow each presentation to give you the opportunity to engage with our speakers.
The agenda will cover these topics below and more!
<ul>
<li>Introduction to Oligonucleotide Therapeutics</li>
<li>Analytical &amp; Purification Methods</li>
<li>Workflows for Oligonucleotide CQAs</li>
<li>Practical Tips &amp; Tricks for Preparative HPLC</li>
<li>Analysis of mRNA 5&#39; Capping and Poly-A Tailing by High Resolution LC/MS</li>
</ul>
<h3>Agenda Day 1</h3>
<h5>10:00  Welcome to Agilent Oligo Insight Days</h5>
<h5>10:10 Introduction to Oligonucleotide Therapeutics</h5>
<h5>10:45 Oligonucleotide Analytical and Purification Methods</h5>
<h5>11:25 Workflows for Analysis of Oligonucleotide CQAs</h5>
<h5>12:05 Oligonucleotide Analysis - Tips &amp; Tricks: Putting it all into Practice</h5>

Agilent Technologies: Agilent Oligonucleotide Insight Days

Agilent Oligonucleotide Insight Days (Day 1)

Taking A Deeper Dive into Oligonucleotide Analysis

This webinar will give an overview of Agilent’s Walkup add-on software which can increase the efficiency of LC and LC/MS systems with multiple users.
The Walkup software allows for an administrator to oversee all aspects of the chromatography system and defines specified user access. A general overview of the Walkup software platform will be given with examples utilized to show the convenience for a multiple user chromatography system.

Agilent Technologies: Inc the Spd, Effic, Robustness, and Ease of Operation of Your Multi-use LC and LC/MS Sys by Incorporating Agilent

Inc the Spd, Effic, Robustness, and Ease of Operation of Your Multi-use LC and LC/MS Sys by Incorporating Agilent

Overview of Agilent’s Walkup add-on software which can increase the efficiency of LC and LC/MS systems with multiple users.

Inc the Spd, Effic, Robustness, and Ease of Operation

HPLC Autosampler injector programming has been a feature of Agilent autosamplers since the early days of autosampler innovations.
The injector program contains a series of simple commands that maybe performed during an injection cycle which enables a sample pretreatment. During this session we will discuss how these commands can be employed to make dilutions to reduce sample preparation time. The versatility of the program allows multi-level dilutions with minimum carryover.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Greg Hunlen (Application Scientist, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Gregory Hunlen has served as an Application Scientist with Agilent Technologies since 2012. He applies his expertise to the Agilent Infinity II series of LC instruments, providing knowledge of LC solutions such as two dimensional LC and LCMSD workflows. He also delivers product demonstrations and lunch &amp; learns. As a key value, Greg likes to talk about maximizing the use of all features our technologies provide. Often, instruments are under-utilized perhaps as a lack of understanding of all that they can offer. When we explore these features, we discover that we can truly optimize the efficiencies of our instruments. Prior to joining Agilent, Greg spent 20 + years in the pharmaceutical research industry on the liquid phase chromatography side of drug development.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Strategies for HPLC Analysis using Autosampler Injector Programming

Strategies for HPLC Analysis using Autosampler Injector Programming

How these commands can be employed to make dilutions to reduce sample preparation time.

Strategies for HPLC Analysis using Autosampler Injector

Find out about the next generation of software from Agilent.
OpenLab CDS can streamline your lab operations with a single, secure data system that combines chromatography and mass spectrometry into one software platform. OpenLab CDS can control your Agilent GC, LC, single quadrupole GC/MS, LC/MS instruments as well as other vendors’ instruments in the lab, and save substantial time managing software and training staff.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Shawn Anderson (Director of Marketing, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Shawn Anderson is the Associate Vice President of Marketing for the Software and Informatics Division at Agilent Technologies. He has over 28 years of experience in the chromatography and purification/separations market space. His career has developed from bench work in biotech to field support, applications, sales, product management, and product marketing. Shawn is proud to have “learned and led” at some of the most well-respected vendors in the industry such as GE Healthcare, Dionex, Bio-Rad, and now Agilent, designing, launching, and marketing next generation hardware, software and consumable products. He is passionate about end-user and customer voice and believes that the lost sale is often the best learning opportunity. Finally, he is an optimistic futurist, and looks forward to the continuing democratization of science and technology.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: OpenLab CDS-The future of Agilent Chromatography Data System for HPLC, GC, GCMS and LCMS

OpenLab CDS-The future of Agilent Chromatography Data System for HPLC, GC, GCMS and LCMS

Find out about the next generation of software from Agilent.

OpenLab CDS The future of Agilent Chromatography Data System

Two Dimensional HPLC (2D-LC) is a technique where two orthogonal techniques are brought together in one system for the purposes of increasing peak capacity as well as providing additional information from complex mixtures and analytes.
In this presentation we will show the analysis of a mAB with a HIC first dimension followed by a RP/desalting column in the second dimension. The second dimension column will removes salts from the mobile phase which will then allow the eluent to be analyzed by an mass spectrometer without the salts that could cause issues with the MS source.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Bob Giuffre (Application Engineer, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Bob Giuffre has been working with HP/Agilent for almost thirty years as an Application Scientist for the HPLC product line. During that time Bob has worked on applications ranging from small molecule pharmaceutics, to large molecule polymers, to monoclonal antibodies. Currently, Bob is working in the area of ultra-high pressure two-dimensional liquid chromatography as a means to increase peak capacity for complex formulations. Bob has authored a chapter on the use of Diode-Array Detection in Pharmaceuticals. He is currently writing a chapter on Troubleshooting Peptide and Proteins Analysis using LC-MS.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
 Presenter: Sandeep Kondaveeti (Application Scientist, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Sandeep is a Philadelphia native and currently works as an applications chemist responsible for developing Bio-pharma workflow applications with Agilent Technologies supporting bio-columns portfolio. Prior to joining Agilent, Sandeep undertook graduate studies at Temple University in Bioinorganic chemistry focused in developing Inorganic metal clusters based on Photosynthetic metalloenzymes and worked as Process Analytical Scientist for Janssen Pharmaceuticals through Eurofins.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: 2D HPLC of Monoclonal Antibody with Novel Hydrophobic Interaction coupled to Reverse Phase Desalting with MS de

2D HPLC of Monoclonal Antibody with Novel Hydrophobic Interaction coupled to Reverse Phase Desalting with MS de

Analysis of a mAB with a HIC first dimension followed by a RP/desalting column in the second dimension.

2D HPLC of Monoclonal Antibody with Novel Hydrophobic

Organoids and spheroids are attractive 3D cell culture models because they mimic specific in vivo physiological conditions, can be developed from human cells, and contribute towards animal-free research. Their analysis brings light on cell-cell and cell-microenvironment molecular composition and interactions, which creates opportunities in cancer research and drug screening. However, 3D molecular characterization is required for a complete understanding of the molecular composition and chemical changes of the entire system.Our workflow enables studying cell-cell interactions, invasive cell migration, tumor progression, and other spatially relevant interactions within 3D cell culture models which could be monitored in 3D using MALDI MSI. We analyzed a colon cancer-fibroblast co-culture spheroid model developed by Prof. Rüdiger Rudolf and team, and were able to distinguish between cell type specific small molecules in an unbiased manner and high throughput. Therefore, our 3D technology could enable the identification of desirable markers for studying biological mechanisms typical to each cell type, which could lay the grounds for developing 3D-MSI based drug screenings.<blockquote>Presenter: Stefania-Alexandra Iakab, Ph.D. (Team Leader Spatialomics, Center for Mass Spectrometry and Optical Spectroscopy (CeMOS), Mannheim University of Applied Sciences, Mannheim, Germany)Stefania-Alexandra Iakab received her Ph.D. from the Rovira i Virgili University in Tarragona, Spain. She developed gold and silicon-based nanostructured surfaces for multimodal imaging combining matrix-free mass spectrometry imaging and surface assisted Raman spectroscopy. She is currently leading the Spatialomics team at CeMOS, Germany. Her research focuses on developing MSI workflows for pharma applications on 3D cell culture models.Presenter:&nbsp;Janina Oetjen, Ph.D. (Application Specialist MALDI Imaging, Bruker Daltonics, Bremen, Germany)Janina Oetjen did her Ph.D. in molecular microbiology at the University of Bremen in 2009. As employee at the MALDI Imaging Lab of the University of Bremen, she provided analytical service in the field of mass spectrometry imaging. At SCiLS, she headed the SCiLS™ Analytical Services division and acted as a consultant for the software development. Since summer 2018, she joined Bruker as Application Scientist for MALDI Imaging and is responsible for timsTOF fleX and timsTOF fleX MALDI-2 demos.</blockquote>

Bruker: Monitoring small molecules from a colon cancer spheroid model in 3D using MALDI MSI

Monitoring small molecules from a colon cancer spheroid model in 3D using MALDI MSI

Learn about 3D cell culture models which could be monitored in 3D using MALDI MSI.

Monitoring small molecules using MALDI MSI

The polymer industry is one of the world’s largest industrial sectors. &nbsp;Almost all consumer products are composed of polymers of some sort. &nbsp;These products range across items like automobiles, pharmaceuticals, toys, packaging, computer and cell phones, and so on. &nbsp;There are a few areas where characterizing these polymer-based objects can be important: first is performing a quick polymer identification for recycling purposes; second is quality control to identify product defects or failures; and third is reverse engineering to facilitate product development in a highly competitive marketplace. &nbsp;Vibrational spectroscopy (infrared (IR) and Raman) is especially useful for the analysis of polymers in an industrial setting. &nbsp;IR and Raman are highly specific and sensitive tools that are non-destructive and easy to use. &nbsp;Examples will be presented demonstrating the effectiveness of IR and Raman analysis in each of these categories.Mass Spectrometry (MS) has become an indispensable tool for polymer analysis and has been widely used to study polymer structure and composition, end-groups and additives, molecular weight distribution, and so on. &nbsp;MS analysis is extremally sensitive, allowing the detection and identification of minor polymer components and synthesis by-products, as well as low-level impurities and products of decomposition. &nbsp;Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization (MALDI) allows to perform rapid MS analysis without lengthy pre-separation and with minimal sample preparation. &nbsp;MALDI MS can provide structural and copolymer composition information, as well as be used for imaging of polymer surfaces, characterization of complex polymer mixtures and many other analytical tasks. &nbsp;In this webinar, we will discuss several MS analytical techniques and their applications for polymer analysis using real life examples from the industry and academia.<blockquote>Presenter: Dr. Tom Tague (Applications Manager and Chair of the Safety Committee Bruker Corporation)Dr. Tom Tague is the Applications Manager (FTIR and Raman products) and Chair of the Safety Committee for Bruker Corporation. He is also a member of the Visiting Advisory Committee of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and the Advisory Board of Amplified Sciences. Dr. Tague received his Ph.D. from the University of Utah in Physical Chemistry and his B.S. in Chemistry, from the University of Texas at San Antonio. He conducted his postdoctoral research at the University of Virginia working with professor Lester Andrews. He is a member of the American Chemical Society, the Society for Applied Spectroscopy, the American Physical Society, and the Optical Society of America. Dr. Tague is active in developing new methods and instrumentation with the goal of improving the sensitivity and detection limits of spectroscopy related applications. Dr. Tague has more than 80 publications and 5 patents.Presenter:&nbsp;Dr. Artem FilipenkoDr. Artem Filipenko has over 15 years of industry experience in development of innovative methods and instrumentation for various analytical applications, including food, environmental, industrial, and homeland security. His area of professional expertise ranges from Ion Mobility, Mass Spectrometry, and Gamma Spectroscopy to molecular and nuclear physics. Artem holds a doctorate degree in molecular physics and master’s degree in microelectronics from the National Nuclear Research University in Moscow, as well as master’s degree in business administration from Babson College in Boston.</blockquote>

Bruker: Effectively Analyzing Polymers Using IR, Raman Spectroscopy and MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry

Effectively Analyzing Polymers Using IR, Raman Spectroscopy and MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry

In this webinar, we will discuss several MS analytical techniques, IR and Raman and their applications for polymer analysis 