Concentrating on Chromatography

Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS) has been the backbone of modern analytical workflows for decades — but what if one of its most trusted components is also its biggest bottleneck?In Episode 50 of Concentrating on Chromatography, host Dave Oliva sits down with Daniel DeBord, Chief Technology Officer at MOBILion Systems, to explore how high-resolution ion mobility may be changing the way scientists think about precursor isolation in tandem MS.Traditional MS/MS workflows rely on quadrupole filtering to isolate precursor ions prior to fragmentation. But because quadrupoles operate as mass filters, they routinely discard the vast majority of incoming ions — often more than 99% — contributing to signal loss, slower acquisition speeds, and chimeric spectra in complex mixtures.Daniel explains how Structures for Lossless Ion Manipulations (SLIM) technology introduces an additional gas-phase separation step between LC and MS — enabling:* Near-lossless ion transmission through the instrument* Separation based on size-to-charge rather than mass-to-charge* Cleaner MS/MS spectra with reduced spectral chimerism* LC gradient compression without sacrificing analytical resolution* Peak capacities comparable to 20–30 minute LC separations — achieved in milliseconds For chromatographers, this raises an important question:If critical separations can occur in the mobility domain, how much chromatography do we actually need?Daniel also discusses:* Whether HRIM could supplement or replace quadrupoles in future instruments* Applications in proteomics, metabolomics, and environmental analysis* Integrating ion mobility into triple quadrupole workflows* Challenges around method development and data processing* What the next generation of LC-ion mobility-MS platforms may look likeThank you  @SeparationScience  for collaborating with me on this episode!---🎧 Guest: Daniel DeBord, CTO, MOBILion Systems🎙 Podcast: Concentrating on Chromatography📌 Episode 50

Light can heal. Light can power devices. But light can also destroy molecules.In this episode of Concentrating on Chromatography, we sit down with Kshmeya Chopra to explore how phthalocyanines — highly conjugated macrocycles used in photodynamic therapy, sensing, and organic electronics — respond to prolonged light exposure.Using UV–Vis spectroscopy, Kshmeya and her research team systematically investigated how:• The central metal (Zn²⁺ vs In³⁺)• Degree of fluorination• Axial ligands• Solvent environment (EtOAc vs DMSO)influence photostability under two-sun irradiation conditions.By monitoring changes in the Q-band absorbance over time and calculating extinction coefficients using Beer–Lambert law, the team uncovered clear structure–property relationships governing light-induced degradation.We discuss:🔬 How UV–Vis spectroscopy tracks molecular breakdown🧪 Aggregation vs true chemical degradation☀️ Why fluorination improves photostability⚖️ Zinc vs indium coordination effects📊 Extinction coefficients and what they reveal about macrocycle behavior🧬 How LC–MS and HRMS could identify degradation products🎓 Advice for undergraduate students entering photochemistry and analytical researchThis conversation bridges spectroscopy, materials chemistry, and analytical science — showing how subtle molecular design choices dramatically impact stability and real-world application potential.If you’re interested in photochemistry, UV–Vis analysis, chromatography, or rational molecular design, this episode is for you.🎙️  @ChromatographyTalk  explores the intersection of analytical chemistry, instrumentation, and applied molecular science.Subscribe for more conversations on LC-MS, GC-MS, spectroscopy, and chemical problem-solving.#spectroscopy#Photodegradation#Photostability#Phthalocyanines#Fluorination#Highresolutionmassspectrometry#Analyticalchemistrypodcast

In this episode of Concentrating on Chromatography, we sit down with Lindsay Repka to discuss how LC-MS and GC-MS transformed her lab’s approach to photoredox chemistry.What began as a project to develop a visible-light photocrosslinking handle unexpectedly led to a major discovery: the solvent (DMF) was reacting with the photocatalyst itself. Using high-resolution LC-MS, Lindsay’s team observed multiple solvent adducts forming — sometimes with complete catalyst consumption. That discovery reshaped their research direction.Drawing from her ACS Northeast presentation and this in-depth conversation, Lindsay explains:🔬 How photoredox catalysts become activated under visible light📊 Why LC-MS was essential when NMR couldn’t resolve complex mixtures📈 How to design reproducible calibration curves for percent catalyst remaining📉 Why extracted ion chromatograms (EIC) outperform total ion chromatograms (TIC) at low concentrations⚗️ How solvent activation chemistry led to selective N-demethylation🧪 Why GC-MS with an internal standard streamlined reaction screening📐 What relative response factors mean — and why they can’t always be assumed constant🧑‍🔬 Practical tips for improving reproducibility (microbalances, deoxygenated solvents, temperature control)This episode is a rare deep dive into both LC-MS and GC-MS within the same research project, showing how chromatography-driven insight can turn unexpected degradation into productive new reactivity.If you work in:* Photoredox chemistry* Reaction optimization* Mass spectrometry method development* Catalyst screening* Academic synthetic chemistry…this conversation will resonate.🧪 Key Topics Covered* Photocatalyst stability in DMF, DCE, and MeCN* Demethylation under mild visible-light conditions* High-resolution Q-TOF LC-MS quantitation* Internal standard methodology in GC-MS* Signal-to-noise improvement using extracted ion chromatograms* Reaction reproducibility and quality control strategy🎙 About the GuestLindsay Repka is a chemistry professor at Middlebury College whose research explores photoredox chemistry, catalyst stability, and visible-light-driven transformations. Her lab emphasizes both mechanistic insight and hands-on student training in advanced analytical instrumentation.If you enjoy conversations at the intersection of chromatography and real-world chemistry research:👍 Like💬 Comment with your LC-MS / GC-MS questions🔔 Subscribe for more episodes of

In this episode of Concentrating on Chromatography, David speaks with Francis Femi Oloy about using chromatography to uncover hidden pollutants in real-world water systems.Femi’s team analyzed polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in six major rivers in southwestern Nigeria — compounds that were banned decades ago but still persist in the environment. Using a workflow that many analytical labs will recognize — liquid–liquid extraction, cleanup, rotary evaporation, nitrogen blowdown, and GC-ECD detection — they quantified 25 PCB congeners at trace levels and linked the results to ecological and human health risk.📌 In this conversation, we cover:• Why legacy pollutants like PCBs still show up today• Choosing GC-ECD vs LC-MS for halogenated compounds• Liquid–liquid extraction and matrix cleanup strategies• Why sample concentration is critical for dilute environmental samples• How rotovap + nitrogen blowdown work together without losing volatile analytes• Seasonal trends (why wet season levels were higher)• Translating concentration data into meaningful risk assessmentsThis episode is perfect for anyone working in:Chromatography • Environmental analysis • Sample prep • Trace analysis • GC methods • Analytical chemistryIf you enjoy practical discussions about real laboratory workflows and how chromatography solves real problems, subscribe to Concentrating on Chromatography. 🔬 Paper discussed: Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in rivers of Southwestern Nigeria: sources, seasonal distribution, and assessment of human health risks# 🔔 More episodesSubscribe for more interviews with scientists using chromatography and mass spectrometry to solve real-world challenges.

How do you see proteins, metals, and disease processes inside real tissue — and still trust the numbers?In this episode of Concentrating on Chromatography, David sits down with Monique Mello, analytical chemist, educator, and LA-ICP-MS imaging specialist, to explore how laser ablation ICP-MS (LA-ICP-MS) and immuno-mass spectrometry imaging (iMSI) are transforming pathology, environmental science, and translational research.Monique shares her journey from public-health and pathology labs in Brazil to environmental and biomedical research in Australia — and explains why metrology, traceability, and defensible measurements are the foundation of meaningful science.We dive into her work developing multiplexed elemental imaging methods that allow researchers to quantify multiple proteins at once in tissue — revealing interactions that traditional single-marker methods miss. Her studies show how LA-ICP-MS can map dystrophin-glycoprotein complex proteins in muscular dystrophy and track elemental distributions like zinc in Alzheimer’s disease tissue.We also discuss something many labs overlook: sample preparation and immunolabelling can change the chemistry you’re trying to measure. Monique’s research demonstrates how staining steps can redistribute endogenous metals and why rigorous validation is critical for trustworthy data.If you care about chromatography, mass spectrometry, or analytical chemistry that genuinely impacts patients and communities, this episode is for you.In this conversation, we cover:• What LA-ICP-MS imaging is and how it works• Multiplexed antibody tagging with lanthanides for quantitative tissue imaging• Why metrology and uncertainty matter more than “pretty data”• Common analytical failures (and why sample prep causes most of them)• Elemental mapping in muscular dystrophy and Alzheimer’s research• How immunolabelling and coverslipping can perturb endogenous metals• Teaching analytical chemistry for real-world problem solvingWho this is for: Analytical chemists • Mass spectrometrists • Chromatographers • Pathology researchers • Environmental scientists • Students entering the field

How do chemists design molecules that safely carry radioactive metals through the body to target cancer cells?In this episode of Concentrating on Chromatography, David sits down with Simona Mastroianni and Marianna Tosato to explore the chemistry behind radiopharmaceuticals — drugs that combine radioactive isotopes with specially designed chelators to diagnose and treat cancer.Their latest research focuses on the theranostic pair lead-203 and lead-212, a powerful combination that enables both imaging and targeted alpha therapy using the same chemical platform. To make this possible, they developed new “molecular cages” that tightly bind lead ions, improving stability, safety, and effectiveness in the body.Along the way, we break down:• What radiopharmaceuticals and theranostics actually mean• Why chelators act like cages for radioactive metals• How chromatography (HPLC/TLC) verifies radiolabeling and purity• How NMR shows metals are truly bound• The path from synthetic chemistry → animal studies → hospitals• Career advice for undergraduate chemists interested in medical and radiochemistryIf you’ve ever wondered how analytical chemistry, inorganic chemistry, and separation science translate into real cancer treatments, this episode connects the dots.Based on their recent publication demonstrating highly stable, efficiently labeled cyclen-based chelators for 203/212Pb radiopharmaceuticals and the full interview discussion .🎧 Perfect for students in:Analytical chemistry • Chromatography • Inorganic chemistry • Radiochemistry • Pharmaceutical sciencesradiopharmaceuticals, lead-212 therapy, theranostics, chelators, chromatography, HPLC, NMR, radiochemistry, cancer drug development, analytical chemistry careers

Neglected and opportunistic infectious diseases affect some of the world’s most vulnerable populations—but often receive the least attention from traditional drug discovery pipelines.In this episode of Concentrating on Chromatography, host David Oliva sits down with Brad Haubrich to explore how early-stage drug discovery is being applied to fungal and parasitic pathogens, including those responsible for neglected tropical diseases and infections that disproportionately affect immunocompromised patients.Brad shares how his lab approaches drug discovery when the pathogen is eukaryotic—and therefore biologically similar to humans—making selectivity one of the biggest challenges. The conversation covers:* What defines neglected and opportunistic diseases—and why commercial incentives often fall short* Target-based vs. phenotypic drug discovery and when each approach makes sense* Using binding kinetics and residence time to improve selectivity and reduce off-target effects* Where chromatography, metabolomics, and mass spectrometry still play a critical role—even when not front-and-center* The growing (and realistic) role of AI in drug discovery, especially for underfunded disease areas* Why World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day (January 30) matters for raising awareness and accelerating progressThis episode highlights how analytical chemistry, separation science, and biological insight intersect in the earliest stages of drug discovery—and why progress in this space depends as much on collaboration and curiosity as it does on technology.🎙️ **Recorded in recognition of World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day**

Haloacetic acids (HAAs) are disinfection byproducts formed when chlorine or bromine reacts with organic matter in water—and some are linked to serious health concerns. In this episode of Concentrating on Chromatography, we sit down with Jessica Whitehouse, MSc student at the University of Calgary, to discuss how she developed a GC-MS method to detect and quantify HAAs in real-world water samples.During her undergraduate research at Thompson Rivers University, Jessica tackled a major challenge faced by many academic labs: how to analyze regulated environmental contaminants without access to GC-ECD instrumentation. Using dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction, derivatization, and GC-MS, she built a faster, more accessible workflow—and applied it to tap water, swimming pools, and hot tubs.In this conversation, we cover:* What haloacetic acids are and why they matter* Why standard EPA methods can be difficult for smaller or teaching-focused labs* How GC-MS can be adapted for HAA analysis* The challenges of derivatization and temperature program optimization* Unexpected findings in brominated vs. chlorinated HAAs* Why pool and hot tub water can show surprisingly high HAA levels* The excitement (and frustration) of first-time method development* Advice for undergraduate and early-career analytical chemistsJessica also shares how this project led directly to her current MSc research on ozone and nanobubble water disinfection, where she’s now expanding into ion chromatography.Whether you work in **environmental analysis, chromatography, GC-MS, or are just starting your journey in analytical chemistry**, this episode offers practical insight into real lab constraints, method development, and the joy of finding your first analyte peak.🔬 Topics: GC-MS, haloacetic acids, water analysis, method development, derivatization, environmental chemistry🎓 Audience: Academic researchers, students, environmental labs, analytical chemists

In this episode of Concentrating on Chromatography, host David Oliva sits down with Dr. Steven Weinman, Associate Professor of Chemical and Biological Engineering at the University of Alabama, to explore how membrane science and chromatography intersect in modern separation challenges.Steven shares his journey from chemical engineering student to membrane researcher, and explains how membranes are used not only for water purification, but also for sample preparation, pre-treatment, and concentration in analytical workflows. The conversation dives deep into PFAS removal, nanofiltration vs. reverse osmosis, and how chromatography and mass spectrometry are essential for validating membrane performance.Key topics discussed include:* How membranes function as separation and concentration tools* Nanofiltration vs. reverse osmosis for salts and PFAS* The role of chromatography (LC-MS, GC-MS, ion chromatography) in verifying contaminant removal* Challenges in scaling academic separation technologies to industry* Sustainability in membrane manufacturing and PFAS-related regulations* Training students to balance fundamental science with real-world applicationsWhether you work in environmental analysis, chromatography, mass spectrometry, water quality, or separation science, this episode provides valuable insight into how different separation technologies complement each other—and where the field is heading next.🎧 Subscribe for more conversations on chromatography, sample preparation, and analytical science.

How do the hidden carbohydrate structures on your favorite protein powders shape the gut microbiome? In this episode of Concentrating on Chromatography, Matthew Bolino, M.S., from the University of Nevada, Reno, breaks down his latest research on N‑glycans from common dietary proteins (whey, egg white, soy, and pea) and how their structural diversity influences microbial fermentation and short‑chain fatty acid production.Bolino explains what N‑glycans are, why they behave like fiber in the gut, and how his team isolates and characterizes them using ethanol washes, enzymatic release (PNGase F and gut‑derived endoglycosidases), and advanced MALDI‑TOF and HILIC‑QTOF workflows. He also discusses his 2025 work comparing synthetic versus bovine whey N‑glycomes and mapping N‑glycan profiles across dietary protein sources, revealing how glycan architecture can reshape community diversity in in vitro fecal fermentations.Geared toward undergraduate and early‑career analytical chemists, this conversation dives into practical mass spec trade‑offs (MALDI vs QTOF vs LC/GC), real‑world troubleshooting in glycomics labs, and how microbiome‑targeted therapeutics and “symbiotic” designs may emerge from pairing specific microbes with preferred glycan structures. Bolino closes with career advice on building biomolecular analysis skills, understanding instrumentation fundamentals, and entering the rapidly growing field of glycomics and microbiome research.

In this episode, we interview Daniel Reddy, 2025 CAS Future Leader and PhD candidate at Queen's University, about his groundbreaking research on automated mass spectrometry and dried matrix spots (DMS).Dan's work combines computer vision, 3D printer automation, and laser micromachining to revolutionize sample preparation—reducing CO₂ emissions by 28-fold and organic solvent use by 21-fold compared to traditional methods.What You'll Learn:How to give a mass spectrometer "sight" and "taste" using computer vision and the LMJ-SSP (Liquid Microjunction Surface Sampling Probe)The breakthrough technology behind Surface Energy Traps (SETs) for confining liquid droplets on paper substratesWhy dried matrix spots eliminate the need for cold-chain shipping and enable analysis of blood, urine, and saliva samples via standard mailHow DIY chemists are hacking 3D printers to build cost-effective autosamplers (replacing $10K+ systems)The role of green chemistry and systems thinking in modernizing analytical methodsWhy interdisciplinary collaboration (chemistry + computer science) is critical to innovationKey Topics:Dried Matrix Spots (DMS) for automated sample prepLaser-micromachined Surface Energy TrapsDirect surface sampling mass spectrometrySustainability in analytical chemistry3D printer customization for laboratory automationThe importance of science communication and community outreachGuest Background:Dan Reddy is a PhD candidate in the Department of Chemistry at Queen's University and a recipient of the NSERC Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship. He was recently named one of the top 35 early-career scientists globally in the 2025 CAS Future Leaders program.Relevant for:Analytical chemists and mass spectrometry practitionersLab managers seeking sustainable and cost-effective sample prep solutionsResearchers interested in green chemistry and automationDIY enthusiasts and makers interested in laboratory innovationStudents pursuing careers in analytical chemistry

Join us as we sit down with Jim Gearing, Associate Vice President of Marketing for Agilent's Gas Phase Division, to explore how the world of chromatography is changing and how intelligent instrument design is meeting users where they are.This interview was conducted in collaboration with Separation Science, the premier online learning platform for analytical scientists, providing expert content on chromatography, mass spectrometry, sample preparation, and related laboratory techniques.In this episode, Jim shares insights from 34 years at Hewlett Packard/Agilent—including 22 years in R&D—on three critical shifts reshaping analytical labs:🔬 Changing Demographics of Users- How the lab workforce is evolving: fewer experienced analysts, higher turnover, less formal training- Why modern users expect instruments to work like the consumer tech in their hands (iPhones, tablets, apps)- Real-world stories from labs operating with skeleton crews—managing entire instrument rooms with 1–2 people🎯 User-Input-Guided Design- How Agilent collects feedback from day one: customer site visits, service teams, quality data, and early-stage prototyping- The evolution from paper flipcharts (1990s) to rapid software prototyping and eye-tracking today- Concrete examples of pain points that drove major design changes (easy maintenance, remote data access, intelligent diagnostics)🤖 Intelligent Instrument Systems- What "intelligent" really means: features that remove workload and mental effort while delivering high-confidence results- Built-in capabilities like peak evaluation, retention time locking, and maintenance wizards that prevent errors before they happen- How smart instruments operate independently—**they don't require internet connectivity** (addressing a key misconception)- Why distributed intelligence (in the instrument, software, and enterprise services) gives labs flexibilityPlus:- Advice for lab directors building long-term instrumentation strategies (goals, users, solutions)- Jim's magic wand fix: eliminating time spent on non-value-added data processing- Why analytical instrumentation matters beyond the lab—safer food, cleaner water, better pharmaceuticalsPerfect for:- Early-career chromatographers and analytical chemists- Lab managers and directors evaluating instrumentation strategy- Anyone curious about how intelligent systems are reshaping laboratory workflowsGC-MS, chromatography, intelligent instruments, lab automation, user experience, analytical chemistry, Agilent, instrument design, laboratory instrumentation, workflow optimization, data processing, lab management, training and onboarding

In this episode of Concentrating on Chromatography, we sit down with Dr. Lee Polite from Axion Training Institute to break down one of analytical chemistry's most powerful yet misunderstood techniques: gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS).What You'll Learn:- Why GC and MS are the "perfect pair" – and what happens when you try to use MS alone- The electron gun: how molecules get ionized and why they become positively charged (not negatively!)- The magnetic sector vs. quadrupole: from first principles to modern mass filtering- Why Dr. Lee uses the "corkscrew trajectory" analogy – and why it actually works- The cars and boats analogy: how fragmentation creates a unique molecular fingerprint- Scan mode vs. SIM (Selected Ion Monitoring): when to use each for identification vs. sensitivity- Real-world forensics: detecting pesticides in spinach and cocaine in hair follicles- Triple quad GC/MS and Multiple Reaction Monitoring (MRM): the future of trace analysisWhy This Matters:Over 2 million chromatographs operate worldwide, yet most users don't truly understand how they work. Dr. Polite has trained more than 14,000 professional scientists at Axion Labs to move beyond "pushing buttons" to genuinely comprehending the science. This conversation is designed for undergraduate students, academic researchers, and anyone preparing for analytical chemistry roles in pharma, environmental testing, or forensics.The Teaching Philosophy:Dr. Polite breaks complex instrumentation into simple, transferable concepts. He uses real analogies (shopping malls, bank robberies, and magnetic levitation) to make abstract physics tangible. By the end of this episode, you'll understand that mass spectrometry isn't magic—it's elegant physics made practical.Guest Information:Dr. Lee Polite is a leading authority in analytical chromatography education and founder of Axion Training Institute, a real working laboratory where scientists come for hands-on GC and LC training. With nearly 30 years of experience and a PhD under Harold McNair (one of the grandfathers of modern chromatography), Dr. Polite is passionate about making complex instrumentation accessible to students and professionals alike.Resources & Links:🔗 Axion Training Institute: www.chromatographytraining.com🔗 Email: info@axionlabs.com📧 Subscribe to Concentrating on Chromatography for more expert interviews on analytical separation science#MassSpectrometry #AnalyticalChemistry #GCMSAnalysis #ChromatographyEducation #LabInstrumentation #Chemistry #SeparationScience #Quadrupole #Instrumentation #UndergraduateChemistry

Connor Johnson, a researcher from the University of Alberta, discusses his award-winning honours project analyzing the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in two banana species using headspace gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-GC-MS). He completed this specific project as an undergraduate at Thompson Rivers University (TRU).For over 60 years, commercial banana flavoring has remained unchanged—even though the fruit it's supposed to mimic changed in the 1950s. Connor's research reveals why fake banana tastes fake: the commercial banana extract contains only 3 compounds compared to 18+ in real bananas, missing critical compounds that create authentic banana flavor.This episode covers:- The history of banana flavoring and the myth of the Gros Michel banana- What Connor discovered when comparing Cavendish vs. Gros Michel bananas- The real compounds behind authentic banana flavor (hint: it's not just isoamyl acetate)- Why headspace GC is ideal for volatile organic compound analysis- Challenges with sample prep and instrument troubleshooting in research- How this research could revolutionize flavor chemistry in the food industry- The broader applications of comparing artificial flavorings to real fruitsConnor won two national conference awards for this work and shares insights into the analytical challenges of flavor chemistry, including instrument downtime, sample matrix effects, and why creating authentic synthetic flavoring is harder than it seems.Perfect for chemistry students, flavor scientists, and anyone curious about why banana candy tastes nothing like real bananas.

Join us for an in-depth conversation with Holly Lee, Global Technical Marketing Specialist at SCIEX, as we explore the cutting edge of food and environmental safety testing. Holly shares her expertise on analyzing ultra-short chain PFAS like TFA, masked mycotoxins, pesticide residues, and the latest LC-MS/MS workflows transforming laboratory efficiency.In this episode of Concentrating on Chromatography, we discuss:PFAS Analysis & Challenges- Why ultra-short chain PFAS compounds like trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) are among the toughest analytes to detect- Background contamination issues and how labs can minimize them- Column selection strategies and method development for comprehensive PFAS panels- Combining different stationary phase chemistries to broaden selectivityMycotoxin Detection- What are masked mycotoxins and why they evade conventional detection- Climate-driven changes in mycotoxin co-occurrence patterns- Achieving ultra-trace sensitivity for regulated limits in food matrices- EU regulations vs. global standards for mycotoxin testingFood Residue Testing Innovations- Multi-residue pesticide methods covering 100+ compounds- Overcoming challenges with complex food matrices like tea, juice, and extracts- Veterinary drug residue analysis and validation strategies- The role of high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) in resolving matrix interferencesLaboratory Workflow Optimization- Sample preparation strategies: when to use direct injection vs. SPE cleanup- Automation, AI, and machine learning for peak integration and data processing- Green chemistry practices and sustainability in food testing- Getting the most from your LC-MS/MS software featuresHolly's Background & Insights- Journey from studying PFAS fate at University of Toronto to food safety applications- Experience spanning Ontario Ministry of Environment, SCIEX R&D, and global technical marketing- Emerging contaminants on the horizon, including microplastics analysis with LC-MS/MS- Partnership between SCIEX and Phenomenex for advancing chromatography solutionsResources Mentioned:- NIST PFAS Interference List (PIL) database- Phenomenex Luna Omega PSC18 column for ultra-short chain PFAS- SCIEX 7500 and 7600 ZenoTOF systems- Science of the Total Environment journal article on microplasticsWhether you're a food safety analyst, environmental chemist, or chromatography enthusiast, this conversation offers practical insights into method development, troubleshooting, and the future of analytical testing.🔬 About the Guest:Holly Lee is a Global Technical Marketing Specialist for Food Applications at SCIEX with a PhD from the University of Toronto studying PFAS environmental processes. She has hands-on experience in analytical method development, LC-MS/MS analysis, and worked at the Ontario Ministry of the Environment before joining SCIEX.🎙️ About Concentrating on Chromatography:A podcast exploring the science, applications, and innovations in chromatography and sample preparation for analytical laboratories worldwide.Hashtags:#Chromatography #LCMSMS #FoodSafety #PFAS #Mycotoxins #AnalyticalChemistry #LabTesting #SCIEX #EnvironmentalTesting #PesticideResidue #TFA #MaskedMycotoxins #LabAutomation #FoodAnalysis #SamplePreparation

In this episode of Concentrating on Chromatography, we sit down with Alex Brody, an organic chemist at Aqua America, to discuss the rigorous analytical methods required for regulated drinking water testing.Alex walks us through the multi-step PFAS detection process using EPA Method 537.1, including extraction, nitrogen blowdown concentration, and LC-MS analysis. He explains why sample preparation and quality control are critical for achieving trace-level detection—and why these methods can't be rushed or simplified, even with new technologies available.We also explore taste and odor investigations, disinfection byproducts, and volatile organic compounds, plus the surprising reality of why regulated labs move slowly when adopting new instrumentation. You'll learn about the quality control checkpoints, peer review processes, and the misconceptions surrounding analytical turnaround times in compliance labs.Topics Covered:- Role of organic chemistry in regulated drinking water labs- EPA compliance requirements and regulatory bodies (EPA, PA-DEP)- PFAS detection using Method 537.1 and LC-MS- The critical importance of nitrogen blowdown sample concentration- Taste and odor analysis: MIB, Geosmin, and unknown compound identification- Why regulated methods evolve slowly (validation timelines, approval processes)- Quality control procedures: calibration checks, matrix spikes, surrogate standards, internal standards- Automated sample preparation and lab efficiency- Future PFAS regulations and Method 533 expansionIdeal For:- Analytical chemists and environmental lab professionals- Water utilities and compliance officers- Chromatography practitioners interested in regulated workflows- Anyone curious about how drinking water safety is ensured

In this episode of Concentrating on Chromatography, we sit down with Andreas Metousis, a PhD researcher at the Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, to explore cutting-edge spatial proteomics and its role in understanding ovarian cancer development.Andreas discusses how Deep Visual Proteomics (DVP)—a method combining artificial intelligence, laser micro-dissection, and advanced mass spectrometry—is revolutionizing cancer research by providing unprecedented insight into the earliest molecular events in disease progression.Key Topics Covered:- How transcriptomics and proteomics differ and why both matter for cancer research- Deep Visual Proteomics (DVP): AI-driven cell identification and high-resolution protein analysis- Why high-throughput automation (384-well plates, EVOSEP, Thermo Fisher Orbital Astral Mass Spectrometer) is essential for modern proteomics- The IDO1 paradox: why an "immune evasion" protein actually protects cancer cells—and why that matters for failed clinical trials- Translating lab discoveries into real-world therapeutics: the drug development pipeline- Applying spatial proteomics beyond ovarian cancer (lung cancer, skin cancer, osteoarthritis, muscle biology)- Advice for students entering cancer research and academiaWhy This Matters:Andreas's work demonstrates how multi-modal omics integration and spatial resolution can identify novel drug targets and explain why some promising therapies fail in clinical practice. This episode bridges fundamental science with practical lab methodology and therapeutic impact.Perfect for: Analytical chemistry professionals, cancer researchers, graduate students, and anyone interested in how cutting-edge mass spectrometry and AI are transforming biomedical research.Spatial Proteomics, Mass Spectrometry, Ovarian Cancer, Deep Learning, AI in Science, Proteomics, Transcriptomics, Cancer Research, Drug Discovery, EVOSEP, Thermo Fisher Orbital Astral Mass Spectrometer, Laser Microdissection, IDO1, Immunotherapy, Analytical Chemistry

In this episode of Concentrating on Chromatography, David interviews his former high school chemistry teacher, Dr. Kristen Vanderveen from The Bromfield School, about teaching separation science at the high school level.Dr. Vanderveen shares her approach to introducing chromatography, filtration, and gravimetric analysis to both first-year chemistry students and AP Chemistry students. She discusses the hands-on experiments that work best in a high school setting, including paper chromatography with food dyes, TLC separations, and the challenges of balancing lab time with curriculum requirements.Topics discussed:- Separation methods taught in high school chemistry (filtration, paper chromatography, TLC)- Gravimetric analysis and precipitation experiments for AP Chemistry- Student engagement strategies and memorable lab activities- Balancing theoretical concepts with hands-on experimentation- Common student misconceptions about separation techniques- Preparing students for college-level chemistry coursesFollow Dr. Vanderveen's chemistry education content:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drvchemistryAbout the Guest:Dr. Kristen Vanderveen is a chemistry teacher at The Bromfield School with over 20 years of experience teaching high school chemistry, including AP Chemistry. Her background includes working as a protein chemist before transitioning to education.About Concentrating on Chromatography:This podcast series explores chromatography and analytical chemistry through conversations with scientists, educators, and industry professionals.#Chromatography #ChemistryEducation #SeparationScience #HighSchoolChemistry #APChemistry #STEMEducation #AnalyticalChemistry #ScienceTeaching

Join host David Oliva from Organomation for an in-depth conversation with Sean Orlowicz, Principal Marketing Development Manager at Phenomenex, about the analytical challenges and innovative solutions for GLP-1 peptide therapeutics like semaglutide and tirzepatide.In this episode, presented in collaboration with Separation Science (https://www.sepscience.com/)—a premier learning platform for analytical scientists—Sean shares over 22 years of chromatography expertise covering critical topics including:Key Discussion Topics:- Unique analytical challenges in separating GLP-1 analogues and related impurities- Column selectivity and efficiency optimization for complex peptide separations- The role of Aeris Peptide XB-C18 and core-shell particle technology- Method robustness, transferability, and regulatory considerations for sterile injectables- Size exclusion chromatography for aggregate analysis- High-resolution mass spectrometry applications in peptide analysis- Preparative chromatography for API purification at commercial scale- Common pitfalls and troubleshooting tips for peptide method development- The genericization of GLP-1 therapeutics and global market trendsAbout the Guest:Sean Orlowicz brings extensive experience from both laboratory and global pharmaceutical market perspectives at Phenomenex, specializing in peptide analysis workflows from API manufacturing to analytical testing.This episode is brought to you in collaboration with Separation Science, the leading online educational platform providing chromatographers with expert tutorials, webinars, application notes, and learning modules across LC, GC, MS, and separation technologies.Special thanks to Phenomenex for their continued innovation in developing chromatography solutions that advance pharmaceutical analysis, including specialized columns and methods for GLP-1 peptide therapeutics.Resources Mentioned:- Phenomenex GLP-1 Applications Notebook- Biozen dSEC-1 SEC columns for aggregate analysis- Technical notes on semaglutide and tirzepatide analysis- Visit www.phenomenex.com for application support- Explore www.sepscience.com for chromatography education and trainingRelevant for: Analytical chemists, pharmaceutical scientists, method development specialists, HPLC/UHPLC users, peptide researchers, quality control professionals, and separation scientists working in biopharma, generic pharmaceuticals, and regulatory environments.#Chromatography #GLP1 #PeptideAnalysis #HPLC #Semaglutide #Phenomenex #SeparationScience #AnalyticalChemistry #MethodDevelopment #Pharmaceuticals

Join us for an insightful conversation with Dr. Ryland Giebelhaus a chromatographer and metabolomics researcher from the University of Victoria, as he breaks down fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT)—a revolutionary treatment changing lives by restoring healthy gut bacteria. In this episode, you’ll learn:- What FMT is and why it’s a game-changer for treating recurrent Clostridioides difficile infections and other gut-related diseases - How cutting-edge techniques like comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC×GC-TOFMS) enable detection of key metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids, linking gut microbiome function to health - Practical challenges of analyzing biological samples, including sample prep and maintaining bacterial viability for research and clinical use - The role of advanced chromatography and mass spectrometry in monitoring FMT product stability, efficacy, and future therapeutic design - Why data science and coding skills are essential for next-generation metabolomics and microbiome research - The exciting future of multidimensional separations (GC×GC, LC×LC) in expanding our understanding of complex biological systems Whether you’re an undergraduate entering analytical chemistry or a researcher curious about the intersection of microbiology and metabolomics, this episode offers valuable perspectives on innovative science improving patient health.🔬 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and click the bell for more expert interviews and breakthroughs in chromatography, mass spectrometry, and analytical sciences.#FMT #FecalMicrobiotaTransplant #Metabolomics #GCxGC #Chromatography #GutHealth #MicrobiomeResearch #MassSpectrometry #AnalyticalChemistry #Microbiota