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

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Academy

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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

Merck

Agilent Technologies

ACD/Labs

Petro Industry News

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Evosep Biosystems

Waters Corporation

Untargeted metabolomics provides an opportunity to interrogate a sample for systems biology and biomarker discovery for life science researchers.
Discussed here is a comprehensive untargeted analysis workflow for metabolomics.
Plasma samples from mouse models were processed using automated sample prep workflow and analyzed using HILIC chromatography and the 6546 LC/Q-TOF which provided high resolution, extended dynamic range, and isotopic fidelity for the highest confidence in identification. A custom and transferable MS/MS and retention time library for over 400 core metabolites was built for identification. When a true unknown was discovered, SIRIUS/CSI:FingerID software was used for identification based on the MS/MS fragment profile.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Karen Yannell (LC/MS Application Engineer, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Karen E. Yannell is a LC/MS Application Engineer at Agilent Technologies. She is an expert in small molecule high throughput analysis by triple quadrupole (TQ) and quadrupole time-of-flight (QTOF) mass spectrometry for applied markets. Her recent work has focused on developing routine Q-TOF workflows for both expert and non-expert users alike. Previously, Karen worked on forensic, metabolomics, and biomarker discovery applications with ambient ionization sources. She received her PhD in Analytical Chemistry from Purdue University where studied under the advisement of Prof. R. Graham Cooks. Outside of the laboratory, she enjoys cooking unique dishes and hiking along the beach with her dog.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Say “I Do” to New ID Tools: A Novel Untargeted Approach to Unveil the Metabolome

Say “I Do” to New ID Tools: A Novel Untargeted Approach to Unveil the Metabolome

Discussed here is a comprehensive untargeted analysis workflow for metabolomics.

A Novel Untargeted Approach to Unveil the Metabolome

Questions that are answered by structure elucidation and &amp; verification are integral parts of chemical R&amp;D workflows from discovery to development and manufacturing. But as scientists constantly strive to do their work faster and better, they must be careful to ensure that efficiency does not come at the cost of confidence in the determined structure.
Join us as we bring together experts from some of the industry’s leading organizations to share how they leverage software to make the most of their NMR, LC/MS, and GC/MS data and boost their structure elucidation and verification workflows.
<h5>Who won’t want to miss this symposium?</h5>
<ul>
<li>Synthetic and medicinal chemists responsible for elucidating and verifying the structures of their reaction products and by-products Natural products researchers
</li>
<li>Members of structure elucidation groups
</li>
<li>Decision makers at institutions where chemical structures need to be identified quickly and confidently
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Event Agenda</h3>
<h5>15:30-16:10 (CEST) Combined LC/MS and NMR for Automated Verification of Chemical Structures</h5>
<ul>
<li>Celine Nguyen-Van-Dau (Head of Integrated Drug Discovery (IDD) Structural Analysis team, Sanofi)</li>
</ul>
<h5>16:15-16:50 (CEST) Pharmaceutical Discovery and Development Analytical Workflows</h5>
<ul>
<li>Kevin Robbins (Associate Principle Scientist, AstraZeneca)</li>
</ul>
<h5>16:55-17:30 (CEST) Conformational Analysis of Peptidomimetic Drug Leads by NMR</h5>
<ul>
<li>Purnima Khandelwal (Senior Principal Scientist, Small Molecule Drug Discovery, Bristol Myers Squibb)</li>
</ul>
<h5>Hosted By</h5>
<ul>
<li>Sanji Bhal (Director, Marketing Communications (ACD/Labs))</li>
<li>Sarah Srokosz (Marketing Communications Specialist (ACD/Labs))</li>
</ul>

ACD/Labs: What's That Peak? Structure Elucidation & Verification Virtual Symposium 

What's That Peak? Structure Elucidation & Verification Virtual Symposium

What’s in my sample? Did I make what I think I made? What’s that peak?

What's That Peak? Structure Elucidation & Verification

Measurements of free hormone levels are routinely performed in clinical applications to help diagnose health concerns. There are two primary methods that have been used for quantification: immunoassays and liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) usually in conjunction with a sample preparatory technique like equilibrium dialysis (ED); with ED considered the “gold-standard.”
A new technology, BioSPME (Bioanalytical Solid Phase MicroExtraction), has been developed to provide a high throughput automatable cleaner sample in a fraction of time compared to ED.
<h5>In this webinar, we will discuss:</h5>
<ul>
<li>What is BioSPME</li>
<li>How does BioSPME work</li>
<li>Several applications of clinically relevant free hormones correlated against validated equilibrium dialysis samples</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: M. James Ross (Senior Scientist)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
M. James Ross is a senior scientist at MilliporeSigma. In his past 2.5 years with the company, he has focused on sample preparation primarily dealing with biological samples. James received his BA in Chemistry from Hiram College and his Ph.D. from The Ohio State University.
</blockquote>

MERCK: BioSPME: A Novel Sample Preparation of Clinically Relevant Analytes

BioSPME: A Novel Sample Preparation of Clinically Relevant Analytes

A new technology, BioSPME has been developed to provide a high throughput automatable cleaner sample in a fraction of time compared to ED.

BioSPME: A Sample Prep of Clinically Relevant Analytes

Peptide fractionation is important in proteomics workflows to reduce sample complexity and increase the separation efficiency. This leads to increased dynamic range of the identified peptides compared to conventional single-shot analysis.
The additional number of injections per fractionated sample is a good match with the short overhead time between injections on the Evosep One.
<h4>Optimal analytical strategies for sensitive and quantitative phosphoproteomics using TMT-based multiplexing</h4>
<ul>
<li>Presenter: Claire Koenig (CPR)</li>
</ul>
Combination of isobaric labeling (TMTs) coupled with offline high-pH fractionation can maximize analysis depth in quantitative phosphoproteomics analysis. To investigate to what extent sample amount affect the sensitivity and the dynamic range of the analysis, we benchmark strategies for quantitative phosphoproteomics with limited peptide input amounts. Based on this research, we present a decision tree to guide phosphoproteomics users to find the best workflow, to reach optimal depth of coverage, based on experimental design and peptide availability.
More to be announced

Fractionation

Peptide fractionation is important in proteomics workflows to reduce sample complexity and increase the separation efficiency. 

You have seen a fluorescence signal from your sample, but is it the best you can do? This Workshop will focus on the basics of the Cary Eclipse fluorescence software and its operation as well as the optimization of the observed signal. The relationships of spectral bandwidth and detector voltage on the observed signal will be examined. Additional topics to be discussed include the inner filter effect and its manifestation as well as the elimination of second order Rayleigh Scatter.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Mark Fisher, PhD (Application Engineer, Molecular Spectroscopy, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Mark, an Application Scientist for Agilent Technologies, has over 30 years of experience in molecular spectroscopy. He has held roles in Agilent&#39;s UV-Vis-NIR, fluorescence, and atomic absorption product portfolios. In addition to identifying industry trends and new business needs, Mark&#39;s responsibilities include application development, pre and post-sales support, as well as acting as a customer advocate for new product and technology opportunities. Mark received his doctorate in analytical chemistry from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Optimization of Fluorescence Signals

Optimization of Fluorescence Signals

This Workshop will focus on the basics of the Cary Eclipse fluorescence software and its operation as well as the optimization of the observed signal.

In this educational webinar series, we will go back to the basics of chromatography, mass spectrometry, data analysis and troubleshooting. Understanding the importance of the basics will enable you to be more effective in your laboratory. During each session we will cover a specific aspect of your LC or LC/MS system:
<ul>
<li>The theory of chromatography and requirements for great separations</li>
<li>The basics of your Liquid Chromatograph (LC): Pumps, injectors, and detectors</li>
<li>An Introduction to mass spectrometry (MS) systems</li>
<li>Considerations with System Suitability</li>
<li>Troubleshooting your LC and MS systems</li>
</ul>
<h3>PART 5 | SERVICE</h3>
<ul>
<li>Troubleshooting your LC and MS Systems in your Laboratory</li>
<li>When to Start Thinking about Instrument Replacement</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Sharon Munisamy, Ph.D. (Principal Systems Specialist, Waters Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Sharon Munisamy is a Principal Systems Specialist, based in New England. She specializes in ACQUITY™ UPLC and Time-of-Flight MS systems, providing support to customers as well as mentoring and training new engineers on these products. Prior to joining Waters, Sharon developed LC/MS and ion mobility methods for the study of biomass byproducts and asphaltenes at Baylor University.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
HOST: Alexandra (Allie) Ahern (Informatics Product Marketing Manager, Americas Field Marketing, Waters Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Allie Ahern has been with Waters for 10 years and is the Informatics Product Marketing Manager within the Americas Field Marketing Organization. Prior to Allie’s current role, she has held other roles at Waters including Service Marketing Product Manager, Implementation Project Manager, and Field Service Engineer.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
HOST: Kieron Faherty, Ph.D. (Separations and Mass Spectrometry Field Marketing Manager, Waters Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Kieron Faherty is the Separations and Mass Spectrometry Field Marketing Manager for the Americas at Waters Corporation. He received his B.Sc. (Hons) in Chemistry from the University of Reading (Reading, Berkshire, UK) and his doctorate in Chemistry from the University of Massachusetts (Amherst, MA). He has held several field-based positions at Waters, most recently as a Field Applications Specialist focused on biopharmaceutical applications using Time-of-Flight mass spectrometry instrumentation.
</blockquote>

Waters Corporation: Fall Back to Basics - Part 5: Service

Fall Back to Basics - Part 5: Service

PART 5 topics: Troubleshooting your LC and MS Systems in your Laboratory. When to Start Thinking about Instrument Replacement.

Ensuring the safety and efficacy of biotherapeutics from research to development, and then from manufacturing to quality control is essential in order to bring a product to market. Large molecules pose unique challenges for biotherapeutic analyses in that they often requires running a panel of tests to ensure product efficacy and safety. Industry efforts have evolved towards comprehensive analytical workflows that enable researchers to monitor their purity, potency, and critical quality attributes (CQAs) of highly complex and diverse biotherapeutic molecules.
This session will outline the basics of the biopharmaceutical industry and the analytical tools utilized to access the quality and purity of their products. 
<h5>Learning Objectives:</h5>
<ul>
<li>Describe the phases of biotherapeutic &#39;pipeline&#39;</li>
<li>Discuss the various modalities that encompass the biopharmaceutical industry and the analytical tools that routinely used to access the quality of these modalities.</li>
<li>Learn the Quality by Design (QbD) approach in the development of biopharmaceutical products and process parameters to access product critical quality attributes (CQA)</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Christopher M. Colangelo, PhD, MBA (Biopharma Business Development Leader, Americas, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Christopher Colangelo, PhD, MBA is the Agilent Biopharma Business Development Leader for the Americas. Prior to joining Agilent, he was the 5th employee and co-inventor of the 454-sequencing platform. In 2003, Chris joined Yale University as a Research Faculty in where he mentored and supervised a research group producing 60+ peer-reviewed publications and directed core research laboratories for four NIH P30 grants, totaling over $21 million worth of research funds. In 2017, Chris joined Agilent to help customers develop, test, and implement end-to-end biopharma workflows.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Overview of Analytical Tools for Developing the Next Generation of Biopharmaceuticals

Overview of Analytical Tools for Developing the Next Generation of Biopharmaceuticals

This session will outline the basics of the biopharmaceutical industry and the analytical tools utilized to access the quality and purity of their products. 

Developing the Next Generation of Biopharmaceuticals

This webinar will discuss considerations for adaptation and optimization of an AAA pre-column derivatization method from UPLC to HPLC/UHPLC. The following topics will be examined:
<ul>
<li>Shorter run times (i.e., higher throughput and lower solvent consumption) using a new column for AAA vs. traditional HPLC methods</li>
<li>How to accurately separate, identify, &amp; quantify amino acids in cell culture, protein hydrolysates, foods, and feeds </li>
<li>Scaling of AccQ·Tag Ultra UPLC methods for analysis on HPLC systems, including Waters Arc HPLC and ACQUITY Arc Chromatography Systems</li>
</ul>
<h5>Key learning objectives:</h5>
<ul>
<li>How to accurately separate, identify, &amp; quantify amino acids in cell culture, protein hydrolysates, foods, and feeds</li>
<li>Scaling of proven AccQ·Tag Ultra UPLC methods for analysis on HPLC systems, including Waters Arc HPLC and ACQUITY Arc Chromatography Systems</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Paula Phenix (Principal Product Marketing Manager, Waters Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Paula Phenix is a Principal Product Marketing Manager in the Chemistry and Automation Group at Waters Corporation, where she has been for three years. Prior to the Chemistry and Automation Group, she was a Principal Product Marketing Manager in the LC Instruments Product Management team.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Kimberly Martin (Evaluation Scientist II, Waters Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Kimberly Martin is part of the System Design and Development Team at Waters Corporation and serves as an Evaluation Scientist II that verifies, validates and tests new instrumentation and products. She has been the company for over 4 years. She has a total of 13 years of analytical chemistry experience including polymer chemistry, food and environmental chemistry, and pharmaceutical chemistry. Kimberly has extensive experience in HPLC, LCMS, GCMS, GC-FID, additional MS technologies and sample preparation.
</blockquote>

Waters Corporation: Updating your HPLC Method for Amino Acid Analysis to Save Time Compared to Traditional HPLC

Updating your HPLC Method for Amino Acid Analysis to Save Time Compared to Traditional HPLC

This webinar will discuss considerations for adaptation and optimization of an AAA pre-column derivatization method from UPLC to HPLC/UHPLC.

Updating your HPLC Method for Amino Acid Analysis

Monitoring the quality of hydraulic and/or lube oils is critical to prevent premature wear of any kind of machinery. In this session we will look at this topic from a new perspective focusing on the combination of titration (potentiometric, thermometric, coulometric Karl Fischer titration) and Vis-Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (Vis-NIRS).
Combining titration (highly sensitive, specific, a widely used primary method) with Vis-NIRS (fast, non-destructive, results for multiple parameters at once) can make your oil condition monitoring and/or lubricant analysis much more efficient, especially, if your laboratory has to analyze large sample series every day.
Attending this session, you will learn and understand:
<ul>
<li>The specific advantages of each method (titration and Vis-NIR-Spectroscopy)</li>
<li>How and when to use these methods to measure critical chemical and physical parameters in lube and hydraulic oils</li>
<li>What thermometric titration is and how it helps to improve robustness of serial acid number testing</li>
<li>How to automate measurements of large sample series to increase efficiency and reproducibility</li>
<li>How Vis-NIRS for lubricant analysis complies with ASTM guidelines and can save costs and time</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Robert Tobler (Application Specialist Titration)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Robert Tobler studied chemistry at the Zurich University of Applied Science in Wädenswil, Switzerland. He joined Metrohm in 2015 as an application specialist titration. Since 2018 he has also been involved in stability measurement.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Nicolas Rühl, PhD (Product Manager Spectroscopy)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Nicolas Rühl is working in the Competence Center Spectroscopy since 2015. In this time, he has been in charge of developing the near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy business at Metrohm. Nicolas has a Master in Business Administration and received his PhD in physical chemistry on single-molecule spectroscopy using Vis-NIR and Raman spectroscopy technologies.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Moderator: Tom Lynch CChem FRSC (Independent Analytical Consultant, International Labmate)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Tom has 35 years of experience in the petroleum industry, specialising in the delivery of forensic and problem solving /method development capabilities for BP Fuels and Lubricants businesses globally. He was also a member of the BP Science Council representing Analytical Science and led a BP wide Analytical Science network.Tom has published over 30 citable papers, 4 book chapters and has given over 60 presentations at conferences. He is a past Vice President of the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) Analytical Division and a past Chairman of the RSC Separation Science Group. In addition, Tom is a recipient of the Silver Jubilee Medal by the Chromatographic Society and a technical achievement award by the Energy Institute.
</blockquote>

Metrohm: Making your quality control of hydraulic and lube oils more efficient

Making your quality control of hydraulic and lube oils more efficient

Combining titration and Vis-Near-Infrared Spectroscopy for higher sample throughput & faster results

Efficient quality control of hydraulic and lube oils

Extracting sold samples, like soil, for environmental contaminants has always been a challenge. Using manual techniques like Soxhlet, are time-consuming, laborious and costly due to the amount of effort dedicated to sample prep as well as the high volume of solvents used. Additionally, manual processes can be error-prone which can lead to rerunning samples or the need to resample all together. While there are instruments available for automated sample preparation steps, the entire workflow has not been able to be done by just one device. Most instruments process samples one at a time, therefore, take a long time to prepare samples. Plus, user intervention is required to move samples between the extraction and evaporation devices.
Discover the Thermo Scientific EXTREVA ASE Accelerated Solvent Extractor which boosts sample prep productivity, and efficiency, and brings a new level of consistency. Introducing the first walk-away sample preparation instrument. The EXTREVA ASE system combines extraction, in-cell cleanup, and evaporation into one seamless operation without the need for user intervention. Parallel sample extraction and evaporation without the need to interact with the instrument will allow you to fully dedicate your time and attention to more important value added tasks without having to worry about your sample extraction and concentration.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Chris Shevlin (Scientific and Educational Affairs Manager, IC/SP, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Chris Shevlin is the Scientific and Educational Affairs Manager for Ion Chromatography and Automated Sample Preparation systems at Thermo Fisher Scientific. After graduating from the University of Buffalo, he started working in a pharmaceutical laboratory running HPLC, LC-MS and other chromatographic methods in a technical services and QC laboratory. After earning an MBA in 2004, Chris has worked in sales, product management and marketing with a few of the major analytical instrument manufacturers.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Rahmat Ullah (Manager, Chemistry, IC/SP, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Rahmat Ullah has been working for over 15 years in the sample preparation field with the Ion Chromatography and Sample Preparation (IC/SP) business unit at Thermo Fisher Scientific. He holds a Ph.D. degree in Chemistry. Rahmat is currently leading the Sample Preparation team in the design, development, and application efforts related to sample preparation platforms offered by IC/SP.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Jingli Hu (Sr. Product Applications Specialist, IC/SP, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Jingli is a Staff Applications Scientist at Thermo Fisher Scientific. She has been with Thermo Fisher Scientific for seven years. Here she is currently focusing on liquid chromatography and sample preparation applications within the food, environmental, and biopharma markets. Prior to joining Thermo Fisher Scientific, she built seven years of R&amp;D lab experience in the food and pharmaceutical industries.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Sandra Rontree (Senior Manager, Product Marketing Ion Chromatography/ Sample Preparation &amp; Discrete Industrial Analyzer, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Sandra Rontree is leading a team of product marketing managers for Ion Chromatography and Sample Preparation in the Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry group at Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. She has built her career in a variety of roles at the leading pharmaceutical and scientific instrument vendor organizations where she was a scientific researcher, business development and marketing manager. Sandra has more than 20 years’ experience with analytical instrumentation and has a strong interest in HPLC, GC, IC and Mass Spectrometry. She is passionate about creating marketing strategies and collaborating with customers utilizing innovative technology to address their needs. Sandra holds a degree in Chemical Engineering and received her PhD from the Bielefeld University in Organic Chemistry and Mass Spectrometry.
</blockquote>

Thermo Scientific: Walkaway sample-to-vial sample preparation with the EXTREVA ASE system

Walkaway sample-to-vial sample preparation with the EXTREVA ASE system

Discover the Thermo Scientific EXTREVA ASE Accelerated Solvent Extractor which boosts sample prep productivity, and efficiency.