Concentrating on Chromatography

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

Join us in this fascinating episode of Concentrating on Chromatography as Dr. Rachael Guenter, PhD, shares her eight-year journey researching neuroendocrine tumors. Discover how her background in plant pathology and engineering shaped her translational medicine approach, and learn about the crucial role of mass spectrometry in uncovering protein-level insights in these rare cancers. Dr. Guenter also discusses the challenges of translating lab discoveries into clinical trials, the promise of spatial mass spectrometry for tumor heterogeneity, and the importance of collaboration between scientists, clinicians, and patients. Whether you're interested in cancer biology, mass spec applications, or cutting-edge cancer research, this episode delivers valuable perspectives and inspiring advice from a leading expert in the field. Subscribe for in-depth scientific conversations and cutting-edge chromatography content every week. #NeuroendocrineCancer #MassSpectrometry #CancerResearch #ChromatographyPodcast #TranslationalResearch #SpatialMassSpec #DrRachaelGuenter

Join analytical chemist Dr. M. Farooq Wahab from the University of Texas at Arlington as he breaks down the science behind chromatographic peak shapes in this episode of the Concentrating on Chromatography podcast. Perfect for undergraduate chemists and researchers alike, this conversation covers:- What makes an ideal chromatographic peak shape and why it matters - Common reasons your HPLC peaks might show tailing, fronting, or distortion - Practical tips for diagnosing and troubleshooting peak shape problems - How to use visual and digital tools (like Excel) to analyze your chromatogram data beyond basic numbers - The importance of baseline correction, denoising, and signal processing in chromatography - Advice for students and early researchers aiming to excel in analytical chemistryDr. Wahab shares lively insights from his research and decades of experience, revealing the underlying physics, chemistry, and engineering behind the peaks you see—and why peaks tell the story of your chromatography.🔬 Whether new to HPLC or looking to deepen your understanding, this episode demystifies a critical topic that impacts every chromatographer.Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and ring the bell for more expert chromatography content! Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/@UCU9oYSK_peqfuCrwpnv4fqA HPLC peak shapes, chromatography troubleshooting, peak tailing, peak fronting, chromatographic peak analysis, analytical chemistry podcast, undergrad chromatography, baseline correction HPLC, signal processing chromatography, Farooq Wahab, Concentrating on Chromatography, chromatography tips, peak shape Gaussian, chromatography data analysis

Join us for an insightful conversation with Pernilla Sörme, Technical Program Director at My Green Lab, as we explore how one organization is transforming laboratories worldwide into leaders in environmental sustainability. Discover the driving mission behind My Green Lab, the measurable impact on research and industry, and real-world tips for saving energy and reducing plastic waste in scientific labs. Pernilla shares how behavior change, grassroots and leadership buy-in, and a community-driven approach are helping thousands of labs certify their sustainability practices—and why this matters for the future of science, the planet, and organizational success. Whether you’re in academic research or commercial R&D, this candid interview explains why sustainability, reputation, and cost savings can go hand-in-hand through My Green Lab Certification, ACT Eco-label, and more. Watch for practical advice, industry milestones, and a vision for science that benefits people and the planet.

In this episode of the Concentrating on Chromatography podcast, host David Oliva interviews Ainslie Chen about her cutting-edge research on hemoglobin variant testing using liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HR-MS). Ainslie discusses her novel method for separating and identifying hemoglobin subunits with mass shifts less than 1 Da, overcoming critical limitations in conventional clinical assays.Hear firsthand how her team developed an LC-HR-MS workflow using a C4 reversed-phase column, tackled technical challenges (including why C18 columns fell short), and achieved unprecedented sensitivity for variant detection in both adult and neonatal samples. The conversation touches on the potential of mass spectrometry to revolutionize clinical diagnostics, the importance of reproducibility, barriers to adoption in routine labs, and how teamwork drives scientific innovation.Perfect for analytical chemists, clinical laboratorians, and anyone interested in the future of protein variant analysis, this episode also features Ainslie’s advice for early-career scientists and insights from her first ACS poster presentation.Key Highlights:- Motivation behind improving hemoglobinopathy testing - Technical advantages of LC-HR-MS over gene sequencing and CE - The crucial role of the C4 column in resolving challenging samples - Critical parameters for reproducible LC-HR-MS workflows - Barriers and outlook for clinical adoption of advanced mass spectrometry - The value of teamwork and mentorship in scientific research - Direct insights from recent ACS conference experiencesIf you’re curious about where analytical chemistry meets clinical medicine and the innovations shaping the next generation of diagnostic tools, don’t miss this illuminating interview!#LCHRMS #HemoglobinVariants #AnalyticalChemistry #ClinicalDiagnostics #Chromatography #MassSpectrometry

Join us for a fascinating conversation with Dr. Subhoja Chakraborty from the University of Central Florida, whose cutting-edge research targets the global challenge of malaria drug resistance. Dr. Chakraborty shares her journey from structure-based drug design during her PhD to her recent collaborative work repurposing human kinase inhibitors as rapid, selective antimalarials against drug-resistant Plasmodium falciparum strains.In this episode, you'll learn:- How structure-guided approaches reveal potential drug targets, including cysteine proteases like falcipain-2, and kinases implicated in malaria's complex life cycle.- The power of repurposing kinase inhibitors originally developed for cancer and other diseases, focusing on compound 12, which blocks hemozoin formation and protein kinase 6—key steps in parasite survival.- Lab techniques such as affinity, gel filtration, and size exclusion chromatography for recombinant protein purification—and how troubleshooting is crucial for high-yield, stable complexes.- Advances in mass spectrometry for characterizing protein interactions, validating drug targets, and mapping molecular pathways pivotal to malaria therapeutics.- Tips and lessons for new researchers facing the challenges of sample preparation, complex protocols, and working as part of a collaborative team.Dr. Chakraborty’s insights bridge the gap between basic science and translational drug discovery, offering hope for more effective, targeted malaria treatments in a world where resistance to frontline therapies threatens millions.Referenced Papers:- "Plasmodium falciparum protein kinase 6 and hemozoin formation are inhibited by a type II human kinase inhibitor exhibiting antimalarial activity" (Cell Chemical Biology, 2025)- "New insights of falcipain 2 structure from Plasmodium falciparum 3D7 strain" (BBRC, 2022)- "Structure-Based Optimization of Protease−Inhibitor Interactions to Enhance Specificity of Human Stefin‑A against Falcipain‑2 from the Plasmodium falciparum 3D7 Strain" (Biochemistry, 2023)If you’re a student, scientist, or simply passionate about advances in infectious disease research, this episode offers actionable insights, inspiring advice, and a front-row seat to innovation in combating malaria.Subscribe for more interviews with pioneering scientists in chemistry, biology, and biomedical research!#MalariaResearch #StructuralBiology #DrugDiscovery #KinaseInhibitors #Proteomics #Chromatography #MassSpectrometry #Falcipain2 #Antimalarial #ScientificCareers #UCFResearch

In this special episode of Concentrating on Chromatography, host David Oliva steps into the guest role to share his journey as featured on the Lab Matters podcast. David discusses his transition from a passion for business and economics to leading Organomation, a renowned manufacturer of laboratory instrumentation and sample preparation tools. Organomation's flagship products—like the N-EVAP, MULTIVAP, and MICROVAP nitrogen evaporators—help scientists accelerate the sample concentration process. These instruments utilize gentle nitrogen gas flow and precise temperature control, enabling labs to prepare sensitive samples with accuracy and efficiency. David explains how these technologies are trusted by academic, government, and commercial laboratories worldwide, including leading analytical instrument manufacturers.Listeners will gain insight into how learning agility and transferable skills drive success across industries, and why David is devoted to making scientific workflows more sustainable and less wasteful. Explore the practical impact of Organomation’s solutions—from facilitating complex analyses to reducing environmental impact—and discover what it takes to lead innovation in sample preparation. If you care about chromatography, scientific careers, or the future of lab technology, this episode is essential listening. Find us at ConcentratingOnChromatography.com or on LinkedIn.

Join us for an exciting deep dive with Isaac Plutzer, a graduate researcher at Washington University in St. Louis, as he explores the mysterious "dark kinome"—the hundreds of under-studied protein kinases with high potential for therapeutic discovery. In this interview, Isaac explains what kinases are and why a substantial fraction remain enigmatic, despite being critical regulators of cellular processes.Isaac shares how his lab combines innovative proximity labeling and phosphoproteomics techniques with advanced mass spectrometry to systematically map the interactors, substrates, and signaling pathways of these mysterious enzymes. The conversation covers:What makes a kinase “dark” and why it matters for both basic biology and drug developmentHow proximity labeling and mass spectrometry workflows (including TMT-based and DIA-based approaches) are expanding our map of protein interactionsThe unique challenges of complex data analysis—including imputation of missing values—and the evolving computational landscapeTranslational opportunities for new kinase-targeting drugs, and a look at the cutting edge of single-cell proteomics and automationPersonal reflections on scientific discovery, experimental setbacks, and advice for young scientists entering the rapidly growing fields of proteomics and systems biologyWhether you’re passionate about biochemistry, analytical technology, or excited by scientific frontiers, this interview offers approachable insights into how next-generation tools are rewriting our understanding of the cell.Listen in and be inspired by the thrill of the unknown, the promise of mass spectrometry, and the possibilities for the future of biomedical research!

Join Dr. Guy Caldwell, Distinguished Research Professor at the University of Alabama, for a riveting and urgent conversation that goes beyond the lab bench to the heart of America’s biomedical research crisis. In this episode, Dr. Caldwell—an internationally recognized leader in neurodegenerative disease research—shares the real-world impact of NIH funding freezes, budget cuts, and policy gridlock on labs, promising young scientists, and the future of life-changing discoveriesHear compelling stories from both the "Worm Shack" lab and classrooms filled with top science students: top-ranked research grants on Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s now going unfunded, student opportunities being rescinded, and lab work grinding to a halt due to uncertainty and inconsistent support. Dr. Caldwell discusses the personal sacrifices needed to keep research and student training alive, the hidden infrastructure supporting breakthroughs, and the transformative power of investing in the next generation. Discover why basic and translational research are in jeopardy, how rare disease investigations can yield major insights, and what must change for the U.S. to remain a global science leader.This in-depth discussion is essential for anyone concerned about public health, America’s future competitiveness, and the invaluable role of federal science funding. Explore what’s truly at stake—from lab experiments to lawmakers’ decisions—and learn how viewers can add their voices to support urgent, sustained investment in research that touches every family.

Join us for a fascinating conversation with Dr. Chad Pozarycki, PhD in analytical chemistry and astrobiology, as we dive into the cutting-edge science behind searching for life beyond Earth. In this episode, we explore groundbreaking research on how biosignature molecules—such as amino acids and ATP—can accumulate and persist in extreme, hypersaline brine environments analogous to those found on Mars, Europa, and other planets.Dr. Pozarycki explains the unique analytical challenges of working with highly salty samples, discusses innovative techniques like capillary electrophoresis and high-resolution mass spectrometry, and offers key advice for scientists developing the next generation of space-ready instruments. If you’re curious about how planetary scientists actually analyze samples from Mars or icy moons, or are interested in the intersection of analytical chemistry, planetary exploration, and astrobiology, this episode is for you!🔬 Topics covered:- Analytical methods for detecting biomolecules in salt-rich planetary environments- Overcoming salt-interference in chromatography and mass spectrometry- Method validation in extreme conditions- Adapting scientific instruments for use on Mars rovers and Europa landers- Career and practical advice for aspiring analytical chemists and astrobiologistsDon’t miss Dr. Pozarycki’s insights on the next frontiers for miniaturized analytical instruments and what it takes to prepare for future space missions.Listen now to discover how planetary analog research on Earth paves the way for discovering life elsewhere in our solar system!#Astrobiology #AnalyticalChemistry #SpaceExploration #PlanetaryScience #Chromatography #MassSpectrometry #Biosignatures

🧪 Transform Your Understanding of Modern Chromatography & AI!Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Professor Dwight Stoll from Gustavus Adolphus College as he reveals how his team is revolutionizing liquid chromatography through high-throughput data collection and machine learning. With over 43,000 retention measurements and groundbreaking research spanning three major publications, Prof. Stoll is pioneering the future of analytical chemistry.🔬 What You'll Learn:- How short columns (5mm vs 100mm) dramatically increase measurement throughput while maintaining accuracy- The evolution from HSM1 to HSM3 models and their predictive capabilities - Why selectivity ratios are more stable than absolute retention factors- The "Manhattan Project of Chromatography" - building massive retention databases- Key challenges: column drift, mobile phase standardization, and precision trade-offs- Career advice for researchers at the intersection of chromatography and data science📊 Key Highlights:- 43,329 total retention measurements across 13 stationary phases- Revolutionary "feed injection" method for high-throughput analysis- Improved isomer selectivity predictions - crucial for pharmaceutical analysis- The holy grail: predicting retention from molecular structures🎯 Perfect For:- Analytical chemists and chromatographers- Data scientists interested in chemistry applications- Graduate students and researchers- Pharmaceutical industry professionals- Anyone curious about AI applications in science🔗 Connect with Prof. Stoll:- Gustavus Adolphus College Chemistry Department- Research focused on liquid chromatography and 2D-LC#Chromatography #MachineLearning #AnalyticalChemistry #AI #DataScience #Research #HPLC #Pharmaceutical #Chemistry #ScienceThis interview showcases cutting-edge research that's transforming how we approach method development in liquid chromatography. Don't miss this glimpse into the future of analytical chemistry!

Join David Oliva on the Concentrating on Chromatography podcast as he interviews Edward Faden, Vice President and co-owner of MAC-MOD Analytical, a leading provider of chromatography solutions since 1986. In this insightful discussion, Edward shares the history and expertise of MAC-MOD, based in Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania, and dives deep into the critical challenges of analyzing PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), often called "forever chemicals."Key topics include:- The pervasive nature of PFAS contamination in both environmental and laboratory settings.- Surprising sources of PFAS contamination identified in standard lab setups, from gas line tubing to everyday consumables.- The essential role of the PFAS Delay Column in ensuring accurate analysis by minimizing background interference.- Best practices for labs starting PFAS analysis to reduce contamination risks from day one.- Exciting developments in rapid sample pre-screening methods to prevent cross-contamination.Edward also discusses why PFAS are so widespread—used in products like non-stick cookware and waterproof clothing since the 1940s—and the ongoing struggle to manage their environmental persistence. Whether you're a chemist, environmental scientist, or simply curious about the impact of forever chemicals, this conversation offers valuable insights into cutting-edge analytical solutions.Don't miss out on learning about MAC-MOD's innovative approaches and future plans for PFAS analysis. Subscribe for more expert interviews and chromatography content!#Chromatography #PFAS #ForeverChemicals #EnvironmentalScience #LabAnalysis

Join us for an in-depth conversation with Dr. Eamonn Clark, postdoctoral researcher at the University of Hawaii,  Mānoa and the Water Resources Research Center, as he shares his journey in water research and laboratory innovation.In this episode:- Dr. Clark introduces his work on water treatment and disinfection byproducts, including research following the Red Hill fuel spill in Oahu.- A behind-the-scenes look at the development of a home-built nitrogen blowdown evaporator—why it was needed, how it was designed, and who can benefit from building their own lab equipment.- Discussion of workflows for PFAS analysis, the importance of accessible analytical tools, and the impact of DIY solutions in low-resource settings.- Insights into other homemade lab instruments, the role of 3D printing and PCB design, and the value of community science in water quality monitoring.- Reflections on the broader impact of water research, community engagement, and the importance of making science accessible to all.Key topics covered:- Water Resources Research Center and its mission- Analytical methods for PFAS and disinfection byproducts- Step-by-step overview of building a nitrogen evaporator- Who should consider DIY lab equipment- The future of homemade scientific tools and citizen science- Community outreach and the real-world impact of water researchWhether you’re a scientist, student, or simply curious about how research labs innovate on a budget, this episode offers practical advice and inspiration for building your own scientific equipment and making a difference in your community.Check out for links to Dr. Clark’s technical note and additional resources on DIY lab equipment and water research:- https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2025/ay/d4ay02118e/unauth- https://pubs.rsc.org/en/journals/articlecollectionlanding?sercode=ay&themeid=9bc2db53-354c-4a55-84eb-93fcae875044- https://blog.organomation.com/blog/inaugural-homemade-evaporator-contest-results-the-peak-of-ingenuity

Dr. Haleigh Boswell, Research Chemist at Chevron, joins the Concentrating on Chromatography podcast to discuss her fascinating career journey and cutting-edge analytical work in the energy industry. In this in-depth interview, Dr. Boswell shares:🔬 Technical Insights:- How two-dimensional gas chromatography (GCxGC) differs from traditional GC and why it's revolutionary for complex sample analysis- Applications of GCxGC in analyzing hydrocarbon and renewable matrices- Detector selection strategies (FID, SCD, NCD, TOF-MS) for different analytical challenges- Sample preparation considerations for complex energy industry matrices🎯 Industry Applications:- Real-world problem-solving in refinery operations and catalyst development- Non-targeted analysis for trace contaminants in renewable feedstocks- Process optimization and quality control in energy production- Safety considerations and instrument maintenance in industrial settings📈 Career Journey:- Transition from forensic science undergraduate studies to analytical chemistry- Moving from academia to industry: challenges and adaptations- The importance of networking in scientific careers- Advice for graduate students considering industry positions🏢 Behind the Scenes at Chevron:- Day-to-day responsibilities as a subject matter expert (SME)- Collaborative work across multiple R&D teams- Modernizing analytical instrumentation in a legacy company- Balancing innovation with business needs and safety requirementsThis episode provides valuable insights for analytical chemists, graduate students, and anyone interested in the practical applications of advanced chromatography techniques in industrial settings[#Chromatography #AnalyticalChemistry #EnergyIndustry #GCxGC #CareerAdvice #ChemistryPodcast

In this episode of Concentrating on Chromatography, host David Oliva interviews Dr. Petr Vozka, Assistant Professor at California State University, Los Angeles, about his journey establishing the Complex Chemical Composition Analysis Lab (C³AL).Dr. Vozka shares how he built his research facility during the pandemic, focusing on creating opportunities for first-generation and underrepresented undergraduate students. Learn about the groundbreaking LECO-C³AL partnership that provides students with hands-on experience using advanced comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC×GC) instrumentation.The conversation explores:- Building a cutting-edge analytical chemistry lab during challenging circumstances- Creating research opportunities for underrepresented undergraduate students- The innovative fingerprint aging research in collaboration with the Hertzberg-Davis Forensic Science Center- How multidimensional chromatography enables detection of thousands of compounds in complex mixtures- The workflow for analyzing fingerprint samples using GC×GC-TOFMS- The advantages of nitrogen generators in laboratory settingsDr. Vozka also discusses the upcoming 17th Multidimensional Chromatography Workshop (MDCW), a FREE conference taking place January 13-15, 2026, in Williamsburg, VA, bringing together experts in multidimensional separation techniques.Visit Dr. Vozka's lab website: https://www.calstatela.edu/research/c3alLearn more about MDCW: https://www.multidimensionalchromatography.com/#Chromatography #GCGC #ForensicScience #AnalyticalChemistry #Fingerprints #MDCW #CalStateLA