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