If you have been following my <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://concentratingonchromatography.com/">Concentrating on Chromatography podcast</a>, you know that I am constantly searching for the cutting edge of separation science. After years of interviewing the brightest minds in the field, it has become clear to me that the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/companies/218">Multidimensional Chromatography Workshop (MDCW)</a> is undeniably the best up-and-coming event in our industry.While I was unfortunately traveling in Asia during the most recent session, I was able to catch every detail thanks to the incredible work of <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/companies/1">LabRulez</a>. A huge thank you to Ivo Novotný and the LabRulez team for providing <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLg-M6fM-05MrGrDggkl_UKzzcHPWPmssh">Open Access video presentations</a> of the event. Their <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/">portal </a>is an invaluable resource for anyone who needs to find technical information quickly and efficiently.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Organomation_MDCW_The_Premier_Up_and_Coming_Event_in_Chromatography_2_65b378bf01.jpg" alt="Organomation: MDCW: The Premier Up-and-Coming Event in Chromatography" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Organomation_MDCW_The_Premier_Up_and_Coming_Event_in_Chromatography_2_65b378bf01.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1044" height="455"><h3>The Minds Behind the Magic</h3>I have had the privilege of featuring the core organizers of MDCW on my podcast, including <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/articles?search=Katelynn+Perrault+Uptmor">Katelynn Perrault Uptmor</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/articles?search=Dwight+Stoll">Dwight Stoll</a>, and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/articles?search=Petr+Vozka">Petr Vozka</a>. Their dedication to creating a space where forensic chemistry, environmental analysis, and metabolomics intersect is what makes this workshop so unique. The event is a perfect showcase for how multidimensional techniques—like GC×GC and 2D-LC—are essential for tackling the world's most complex samples.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Organomation_MDCW_The_Premier_Up_and_Coming_Event_in_Chromatography_265c9ec21e.jpg" alt="Organomation: MDCW: The Premier Up-and-Coming Event in Chromatography" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Organomation_MDCW_The_Premier_Up_and_Coming_Event_in_Chromatography_265c9ec21e.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="792" height="230"><h3>Where Sample Prep Meets High-Resolution Analysis</h3>As we often discuss at Organomation, even the most advanced chromatographic systems depend on meticulous sample preparation. Two presentations highlighted in the LabRulez playlist perfectly illustrate the critical role of <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.organomation.com/what-is-solvent-evaporation">solvent evaporation</a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.organomation.com/what-is-sample-concentration">sample concentration</a>.<h3>Chemical Fingerprints: Emma Macturk’s Quest for Hidden Data</h3><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1W5197sp6IY">Emma Macturk</a>, working in Dr. Katelynn Perrault Uptmor’s lab, is redefining how we look at one of the oldest forms of forensic evidence: the fingerprint. While traditional forensics relies on the physical patterns of ridges and whorls, these are often incomplete or smudged in real-world scenarios. Emma’s research shifts the focus to the chemical residue left behind, which can provide vital "class characteristics" like the biological sex and relative age of a suspect.Her optimized workflow is a masterclass in handling complex biological matrices. Using a cotton swab to extract residue from surfaces, the samples are centrifuged and then "<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/article/5392">blown down</a>" (a critical concentration step for any trace analysis) before <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.organomation.com/what-is-reconstitution">being reconstituted for GC×GC-TOFMS</a>.What makes her work truly fascinating—and highly relevant for our readers at Organomation—is the discovery of anthropogenic compounds. Emma identified UVB blockers like octocrylene and various moisturizers hidden within the natural sterols and fatty acids of the skin. The power of multidimensional chromatography allows forensic scientists to resolve these external "lifestyle" markers from endogenous skin compounds, potentially providing a much more detailed profile of a suspect than a physical print ever could.<h3>The "Green" Revolution: Grace Saunders and the Future of Ballistics</h3><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ClD4fjZMNtA">Grace Saunders</a> addressed a looming crisis in forensic ballistics: the shift toward "green ammunition." For decades, the gold standard for detecting gunshot residue (GSR) has been SEM-EDS, which looks for heavy metals like lead, barium, and antimony. However, modern environmental and health standards are leading manufacturers to omit these metals. This means that traditional standards are failing to identify GSR in cases involving green rounds.Grace’s research proposes a dual-pronged approach, using GC×GC to target Organic Gunshot Residue (OGSR). Her liquid extraction protocol is meticulous: samples are extracted in methanol, "<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.organomation.com/what-is-evaporation-to-dryness">evaporated to dryness under nitrogen</a>," and then reconstituted. This ensures that volatile and semi-volatile nitroaromatic compounds, such as nitroglycerin and diphenylamine, are concentrated enough for detection.By optimizing parameters like the modulation period (2.5 seconds) and switching to hydrogen carrier gas, Grace was able to resolve these critical markers from the complex background "noise" of human skin. Her work isn't just about better chemistry; it’s about legal survival. As she noted, forensic methods must meet Federal Rule 702 for admissibility in court. Without the organic profiling Grace is developing, evidence from a "green" firearm discharge might never make it past a judge.<h3>The Future of Chromatography</h3>The workshop also featured brilliant presenters like <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YJm_JwHbArE">Ryland Giebelhaus</a>, whose work on the metabolomics of cannabis exposure during pregnancy shows the real-world impact of these technologies.The MDCW isn't just another conference; it is a community-driven powerhouse that bridges the gap between proof-of-concept and field-ready applications. Whether you are looking for advanced data reduction strategies or the latest in high-resolution mass spectrometry, this is the event to watch.<blockquote>If you missed it this year like I did, I highly recommend visiting the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?search=MDCW">LabRulez portal</a> to see the full breadth of research presented!</blockquote>

MDCW: The Premier Up-and-Coming Event in Chromatography

Visit the LabRulez booth at <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/events/871">analytica 2026</a> in Munich, 24. - 27. March 2026! You can find us in Hall A1, Booth A1.506. At the booth, you will be able to explore live demonstrations of how the LabRulez portals work and see selected analytical instruments from our pre-owned marketplace section.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Lab_Rulez_at_Analytica_2026_Floor_plan_55e1057e03.jpg" alt="LabRulez at Analytica 2026: Hall A1 Floor Plan and Booth Location" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Lab_Rulez_at_Analytica_2026_Floor_plan_55e1057e03.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1516" height="881"><h3>Would you like to learn how the LabRulez portals work?</h3>➡︎ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/">LabRulezLCMS</a> ➡︎ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/">LabRulezGCMS</a> ➡︎ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/">LabRulezICPMS</a><ul><li>A unique online solution for your marketing</li><li>A targeted audience from the analytical chemistry community</li><li>Modern technologies and a unique concept</li><li>Design optimized for most smart devices – PC, mobile, and tablet</li><li>Advanced statistical tools fully available to users</li></ul><h3>Services Offered</h3><h4>News + Company Updates</h4><ul><li>Publish news related to your instrumentation, applications, services, events, job openings, and more</li><li>News is shared both on our portals and across our social media channels</li></ul><h4>Library – All Documents in One Place</h4><ul><li>Applications, posters, presentations, technical articles, brochures, specifications</li><li>Fast and advanced search capabilities</li><li>Over 32,000 documents currently available in our database</li></ul><h4>Webinars</h4><ul><li>Upcoming and on-demand webinars from the field of analytical chemistry</li><li>More than 5,500 webinars covering chromatography, mass spectrometry, and spectroscopy</li></ul><h4>Careers</h4><ul><li>Targeted job listings in analytical chemistry</li><li>Clear filtering by specialization or location</li><li>Increased visibility for job postings</li></ul><h4>Companies</h4><ul><li>Company profile with key information and contacts</li><li>Integration of all your activities on our portal: News, Library documents, Webinars, Upcoming Events, Careers, and mentions by partners or customers</li><li>Connection to your Products listed on LabRulez portals</li></ul><h4>Products and Services</h4><ul><li>Comprehensive overview of instrumental techniques and services</li><li>Targeting the analytical chemistry community and customers in the growing online environment</li></ul><h4>Marketplace</h4><ul><li>Buying and selling pre-owned analytical equipment</li><li>We purchase analytical instrumentation of all brands and ages</li><li>Sell your equipment through LabRulez</li><li>Request and purchase complete systems, modules, or spare parts with warranty and service</li></ul><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Lab_Rulez_at_analytica_2026_bazar_7edf4a0872.jpg" alt="LabRulez at analytica 2026" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Lab_Rulez_at_analytica_2026_bazar_7edf4a0872.jpg 88w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="2844"><h3>What Will Be on Display at Our Booth?</h3>Come and explore selected spare parts and modules from our marketplace section. These include both new, tested, and pre-owned items.<h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/bazaar">LabRulezLCMS Marketplace</a></h4>Spare parts for LC/MS:<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/bazaar?category=378">Vacuum turbo pumps for LC/MS</a></li></ul>Spare parts for HPLC:<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/bazaar?category=397">Degassers for HPLC/UHPLC</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/bazaar?category=368&amp;search=valve">Automatic valves for HPLC</a></li><li>HPLC components for Agilent 1100, 1200, and 1260 Infinity II series</li></ul>Consumables:<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/bazaar?category=377">HPLC lamps</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/bazaar?category=48">HPLC columns</a></li></ul><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/bazaar">LabRulezGCMS Marketplace</a></h4>Spare parts for GC/MS:<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/bazaar?category=367&amp;search=turbo">Turbo pumps for GC/MS</a></li></ul>Spare parts for GC:<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/bazaar?category=366&amp;search=EPC">EPC modules</a></li></ul>Sample injection<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/bazaar/432">Autosampler 7693A for GC</a></li></ul>Consumables:<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/bazaar?category=7">GC columns </a>and selected accessories</li></ul>

LabRulez at analytica 2026

Anna Vanluchene&nbsp;from UCT Prague’s&nbsp;Department of Chemical Engineering has received a&nbsp;prestigious start-up grant from the Dagmar Procházková Fund. However, she did not receive funding right away. In this interview, she describes how she developed ten versions of her&nbsp;Illuminating Flow&nbsp;project idea (combining photocatalysis with flow reactors for pharmaceutical synthesis). She explains why she considers perseverance to be crucial when applying for grants, how international experience has influenced her approach to team management, and how her research can reduce the chemical industry’s&nbsp;dependence on fossil fuels and imports from China.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/VSCHT_Praha_Na_startovaci_grant_jsem_cekala_dva_roky_a_napsala_deset_verzi_projektu_2_5b7d63b8e9.jpg" alt="VŠCHT Prague/Tomáš Balický: I waited two years for a start-up grant and wrote ten versions of my project idea" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_VSCHT_Praha_Na_startovaci_grant_jsem_cekala_dva_roky_a_napsala_deset_verzi_projektu_2_5b7d63b8e9.jpg 127w," sizes="100vw" width="1128" height="1387"><h5>What did the Dagmar Procházková Fund grant mean to you?</h5>I&nbsp;consider it to be a&nbsp;great success. It is the first injection of funding that will allow me to ensure full independence for my research endeavour, to start my own research group, and to fund students so I&nbsp;can get started properly.<h5>What have been your previous experiences with grants?</h5>During my doctorate, a cotutelle (international doctorate under dual supervision), I&nbsp;was funded by a&nbsp;grant from the French government. Then I&nbsp;worked at the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic (CAS) and received a&nbsp;Marie Skłodowska-Curie Action (MSCA) Postdoctoral Fellowship to go abroad. The idea for my now-funded project was developed about two years ago and, since then, I&nbsp;have gradually developed and adapted the idea for various grant calls. I&nbsp;submitted about ten different versions of the proposal. I&nbsp;did not receive a&nbsp;grant from the Dagmar Procházková Fund last year, but this year, my application was successful.<h5>This probably requires a&nbsp;great deal of patience and perseverance.</h5>Certainly, because the success rates for most grants have been declining for some time. But as a&nbsp;motivational example, I&nbsp;will tell the story of Timothy Noel, a&nbsp;Belgian professor of chemistry living in the Netherlands. He applied for the prestigious European Research Council (ERC) grant, which is among the most sought-after in Europe, seven times. But no failure deterred him and eventually he succeeded and opened the door to potentially massive grant funding. He was already one of the world’s&nbsp;top scientists in the field at that time and openly described his journey on his blog <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.noelresearchgroup.com/2022/03/17/my-personal-story-to-obtain-an-erc-grant-7-submissions-4-interviews-and-6-heartbreaks/">blog</a>.<h5>What advice does this convey to other grant applicants and early career researchers?</h5>Start early, read a&nbsp;lot, don’t&nbsp;give up, and—most importantly—apply repeatedly. Learn from rejections and overcome possible frustration from failures. Read blogs and books by successful people, where you will find not only the glorious results of their work, but also the hardships they faced over their entire journeys. Of course, building your team and laboratory is impossible without finances. I&nbsp;myself still hope that I&nbsp;will be able to receive even bigger grants in the future.<h5>How has your international experience influenced your scientific approach?</h5>A&nbsp;lot and on several levels. Different laboratories teach you how to do&nbsp;things differently. You gain varied experience about how different institutions function. You see other people’s&nbsp;positive motivations, their ability to be ambitious without negativity, their involvement in institutional matters, their openness to cooperation with companies (e.g., tech transfers, spin-offs). The most important thing is to broaden your horizons. I&nbsp;see going abroad as a&nbsp;necessity. What I&nbsp;have taken away the most is drive, great support, and the idea that scientific output is not just about metrics, but also about dedication to one’s&nbsp;topic.<h5>What is your Illuminating Flow: Transport Phenomena in Photocatalysis about, in layperson’s&nbsp;terms, and how is it unique?</h5>Most of today’s&nbsp;chemical industry is still based on thermal processes and fossil fuels. Photochemistry enables electrification, where the energy source is photons delivered by LEDs, which can generate electricity from renewable sources. Current research focuses mainly on chemical reactions and their mechanisms, but as a&nbsp;chemical engineer, I&nbsp;focus on designing processes and reactors suitable for industrial use. In batch reactors, light fades rapidly with distance from a&nbsp;source, so much of a&nbsp;reaction mixture is not illuminated. Flow reactors solve this problem, but they bring new challenges such as working with solid catalysts and subsequently scaling up production and achieving higher production rates of the desired chemicals at a&nbsp;given scale.One can imagine a&nbsp;transparent tube with a&nbsp;catalyst on the walls, upon which light shines and through which reactants flow. This project has a&nbsp;unique emphasis on engineering solutions and overall process efficiency.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/VSCHT_Praha_Na_startovaci_grant_jsem_cekala_dva_roky_a_napsala_deset_verzi_projektu_3_b978abf25c.jpg" alt="VŠCHT Prague/Tomáš Balický: I waited two years for a start-up grant and wrote ten versions of my project idea" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_VSCHT_Praha_Na_startovaci_grant_jsem_cekala_dva_roky_a_napsala_deset_verzi_projektu_3_b978abf25c.jpg 241w," sizes="100vw" width="1228" height="799"><h5>So, were you inspired by a&nbsp;gap in the market to connect photocatalysis with transport phenomena?</h5>Exactly. I&nbsp;combine my areas of expertise: microfluidics, photocatalytic degradation of organic substances (CAS), and synthesis (MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowship). The idea itself is not new, and pharmaceutical companies are very interested in “greener” photochemistry, but in practice, there is often a&nbsp;lack of appropriate engineering solutions and apparatus for industrial use.<h5>What are the practical applications of your work and what substances are you focusing on?</h5>Mainly on pharmaceuticals and on the synthesis of so-called fine chemicals, which are often the building blocks for the production of pharmaceuticals. There is also a&nbsp;geopolitical dimension to this, i.e. less dependence on imports from China and sustainable synthesis in Europe where it makes economic sense.<h5>And what chemicals are you specifically talking about?</h5>For example, building blocks for advanced synthesis, compounds prepared by trifluoromethylation reactions, or products of oxidation reactions with singlet oxygen. At the same time, we focus on reactions that are, in the classical design process, less safe or technologically demanding, where new approaches, such as photochemistry in flow reactors, could be safer and have better process control. Of course, this is not a&nbsp;universal solution for all types of reactions.<h5>The goal of this project?</h5>I&nbsp;plan to start a&nbsp;fully functional laboratory and research team, create high-quality experimental data on selected molecules and based on them, try to build cooperation with industrial partners. Without data, it is impossible to come to companies with just an idea. Within three years, I&nbsp;would like to have results that can be realistically presented and further developed.<h5>What are the main challenges in transport phenomena during photocatalysis?</h5>The methodology for repeatability of experiments in photochemistry is relatively demanding and there are unforeseen obstacles in building apparatus. Also, the scale-up from microliters to a&nbsp;larger scale.<h5>What methodology will you use, and how big are the microreactors and their flow rates?</h5>I&nbsp;have two different directions in methodological design. The first direction involves microreactors the size of a&nbsp;laboratory slide. You make a&nbsp;structure using a&nbsp;laser, and then you have to cast it and make a&nbsp;microreactor. This allows you to quickly adjust the geometry of the reactor. This method is, of course, not applicable in the commercial setting, but it is ideal for studying transport phenomena and precise measurements.The second direction involves reactors that are flow cells. These are already larger, approximately 15 x 15 centimetres, and their flow rates are in the order of millilitres per hour. This is the initial scale that we will further increase during the project.<h5>There is a&nbsp;big difference between a&nbsp;flow rate of microlitres per hour and industrial needs. Will it not work differently in reality?</h5>Our research will focus on studying the phenomena themselves for now, and scaling will be addressed later. In addition, we will combine the experimental data obtained with computer simulations that will help design suitable conditions for a&nbsp;larger scale. For some high-value fine chemicals, these scales, combined with continuous operation or parallelization of reactors, may already be practically usable.<h5>What catalysts will you use and how will you attach them to the reactor walls?</h5>I&nbsp;am focusing on heterogeneous photocatalysis, and we will mainly use graphitic carbon nitride and its more advanced modifications. These are semiconductor materials that can be synthesized relatively easily and are suitable for immobilization on glass reactor walls. A&nbsp;key part of this project is the creation of a&nbsp;stable catalytic layer for long-term flow-through operations. To increase the contact of reactants with the catalyst, we will also consider multiphase modes, for example, gas bubbling, in order to disrupt the otherwise laminar flow.<h5>Why did you choose this field and the Department of Chemical Engineering?</h5>During my postdoc in Belgium, the department had an opening for an Assistant Professor position that caught my attention and I&nbsp;applied for it. I&nbsp;did my undergraduate, graduate, and initial doctoral studies here, and I&nbsp;love the department. I&nbsp;have a&nbsp;Bachelor’s&nbsp;degree in Chemistry.<h5>Are you collaborating with anyone?</h5>We collaborate with BUT Brno focusing on creating layers and immobilizing catalysts on glass, as well as with the Institute of Chemical Process Fundamentals of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic. And as for organic synthesis, we are connected with Ghent University via postdoc internships. At the same time, my colleague Viola Tokárová and I&nbsp;received a&nbsp;Czech Science Foundation grant in cooperation with BUT Brno and Masaryk University, with our part of the project focusing on the use of flow reactors for photochemical reactions and testing the antibacterial properties of photocatalytic materials. And I&nbsp;am writing other grant proposals in which I&nbsp;am trying to build new collaborations.<h5>What does the creation of an independent research group at UCT Prague look like?</h5>I&nbsp;started by renovating the premises that were assigned to me and gradually building my team. It is important for research work to have Ph.D. students; I&nbsp;have already hired one and we will recruit more. In addition to building the group, I&nbsp;will engage in securing further funding for the group, so I&nbsp;will be writing more grant proposals. It is important to think far enough in advance when it comes to prospective funding for a&nbsp;research group.<h5>What type of students are you looking for?</h5>The laboratory and team I&nbsp;are building will be very multidisciplinary, just like the area I&nbsp;am working on. That is why I&nbsp;am looking for students who are attracted to true multidisciplinary research, those who, for example, have knowledge of engineering, but who don’t&nbsp;mind a&nbsp;little bit of pure chemistry. One student in their own right does not have to (and cannot) know every subject, so I&nbsp;will ideally have a&nbsp;team consisting of different people with different research backgrounds. Motivated, DIY-type students who would rather enthusiastically build or invent something themselves than conduct repetitive measurements. Organic or analytical chemists will also find their place here. If this topic is interesting to students in any way, they can definitely contact me. I&nbsp;am also open to interdepartmental cooperation with other UCT Prague Faculties.<h5>How would you describe your path to photocatalysis/chemical engineering?</h5>Studying Chemistry as an undergrad gave me a&nbsp;broad perspective, but I&nbsp;was gradually narrowing my focus and eventually chose engineering. Chemical engineering intrigued me with its logic and was the easiest for me to grasp at the time. But I&nbsp;have always enjoyed working on projects more than the studies themselves. Even during my Bachelor studies, I&nbsp;really enjoyed and was interested in the Professor Štěpánek Group’s&nbsp;projects, where I&nbsp;was doing something completely different than I&nbsp;do&nbsp;now. I&nbsp;only got into photochemistry during my time at CAS and then, during my postdoctoral fellowship, I&nbsp;devoted myself to electrochemistry. My current focus is, thus, a&nbsp;natural interlinking of all these areas. Consequentially, I&nbsp;developed an awareness of the necessity to become independent and return to the department with my own, different research agenda, which, in my opinion, is an important and correct basis for establishing my own research group.<h5>What is the biggest challenge of this project for you?</h5>The transition from being a&nbsp;postdoc to a&nbsp;leadership position is a&nbsp;big change for me and I&nbsp;think it is not talked about enough. It means a&nbsp;shift from my own experimental work to leading a&nbsp;team, planning and delegating tasks, and motivating students. From a&nbsp;practical point of view, one of the main challenges is the transfer of reactions from the microscale to functional systems, the construction of reactors, the immobilization of catalysts, and generally confirming that this direction makes sense in the long term and that it has future potential.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/VSCHT_Praha_Na_startovaci_grant_jsem_cekala_dva_roky_a_napsala_deset_verzi_projektu_1_66ac267e06.jpg" alt="VŠCHT Prague/Tomáš Balický: I waited two years for a start-up grant and wrote ten versions of my project idea" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_VSCHT_Praha_Na_startovaci_grant_jsem_cekala_dva_roky_a_napsala_deset_verzi_projektu_1_66ac267e06.jpg 155w," sizes="100vw" width="830" height="839">

I waited two years for a start-up grant and wrote ten versions of my project idea

Article

Events

Scientists

Popularization

Science and research

Video

The University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague is a natural centre of first-rate study and research in the area of chemistry in Czechia and is one of the country's largest educational and research institutions focused on technical chemistry, chemical and biochemical technologies, material and chemical engineering, food chemistry, and environmental studies.

UCT Prague

Everything from the world of analytical chemistry in one place. We connect people in solving their problems. At Labrulez you will find all the necessary information easily, quickly and clearly. Stop searching and start finding.

LabRulez

Organomation, founded in 1959, designs and manufactures high-quality nitrogen evaporators and extraction systems. Known for innovation and durability, their lab instruments are used globally for efficient sample preparation with strong customer support.

Organomation

KNAUER AZURA GPC/SEC Systems

AZURA® SEC is KNAUER's line of GPC and SEC systems that offer solutions for different applications and labs. These systems can analyze, separate and fractionate sample components based on size and molecular weight. 

AZURA® SEC is KNAUER's line of GPC and SEC systems that offer solutions for different applications and labs. These systems can analyze, separate and fractionate sample components based on size and molecular weight, making them useful for industries such as polymer, food, biochemistry, and pharmaceuticals, as well as research.The systems come in different variants, each tailored to specific lab needs, such as the AZURA SEC Compact for budget-friendly solutions or the &nbsp;Lab for highest analytical performance.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_AZURA_GPC_SEC_Systems_Application_areas_caaeb1284f.jpg" alt="KNAUER: AZURA GPC/SEC Systems - Application areas" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_AZURA_GPC_SEC_Systems_Application_areas_caaeb1284f.jpg 156w," sizes="100vw" width="1204" height="1204"><h3>GPC/SEC&nbsp; – Principles and parameters</h3><h4>Principle of GPC/SEC</h4><h5>How does GPC/SEC work?</h5>Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC) and&nbsp;Size Exclusion Chromatography (SEC) separate&nbsp;analytes by size using special columns with a porous matrix. The basic separation principle relies on the fact that smaller molecules will be more likely to enter those pores, making their travel time through the matrix longer than that of larger molecules. Separations (typically of a mixture of polymers, polysaccharides or biomolecules) are facilitated by choosing optimal particle and pore sizes, as well as column length. GPC/SEC is often used in quality control and R&amp;D.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_AZURA_GPC_SEC_System_principle_gpc_00e63025c7.jpg" alt="KNAUER: AZURA GPC/SEC Systems - principle of GPC" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_AZURA_GPC_SEC_System_principle_gpc_00e63025c7.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="648" height="232"><h4>GPC, SEC or GFC</h4><h5>Terminology in GPC/SEC</h5>Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC), Size Exclusion Chromatography (SEC) and Gel Filtration Chromatography (GFC) &nbsp;all essentially describe the same methodology, but the term GPC tends to be used in polymer chemistry by those working with aggressive, organic solvents, while SEC and GFC are more commonly used by those separating biomolecules using aqueous solvents (buffers) or to reflect the use of aqueous buffers in polymer separations. Systems with organic solvents or aqueous-based solvents present some inherent challenges.The solvents used in polymer analysis are chosen for their ability to dissolve polymeric substances – and therefore may damage certain components of a device. And the use of salt buffers in SEC is harmful to metal components of the system. Hence, all liquid-contacting system components, from the valves and seals to tubing, must be carefully considered when developing such systems.<h4>What does GPC require?</h4><h5>What do I need for GPC?</h5>GPC columns are typically long and runs are performed at&nbsp;low flow rates of up to 1 ml/min and at low (&lt;100 bar) pressures. For the precise molecular weight determination, which is the goal of most GPC/SEC users, a good isocratic pump is essential for a steady baseline. Also a degasser suitable for a wide range of partly highly aggressive solvents is very important to ensure reproducible results. Additionally, temperature is crucial for many GPC applications so a thermostat to control the column temperature is essential.Due to the often very aggressive media used in polymer analysis, all wetted parts need to be compatible with the used solvent. Depending on the polymer it is important to keep this in mind when configuring a GPC system.<h4>What is GPC Cleanup?</h4>GPC Cleanup is a sample preparation method based on gel permeation chromatography (GPC). It is primarily employed for performing general cleanup tasks on a wide range of sample matrices such as foodstuffs, tissues, plants, and environmental samples. High-weight molecular substances, such as lipids, proteins, natural resins, cellular components, and steroids, interfering with subsequent analysis e.g. of pesticides are efficiently removed.<h3>Components for GPC/SEC systems</h3><h5>Columns</h5>Columns GPC/SEC separation efficiency is driven by long columns with large diameters, and the matrix is often based on porous silica or polymer material – the pore size determines the molecular weight range of the separation, and columns with different pore sizes are determines the molecular&nbsp; weight range of the separation, and columns with different pore sizes are combined to broaden separation and increase resolution.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_AZURA_GPC_SEC_System_Column_af59e0a074.jpg" alt="KNAUER: AZURA GPC/SEC Systems- Column" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_AZURA_GPC_SEC_System_Column_af59e0a074.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1280" height="699"><h5>Software</h5>The main goals are the determination of molar mass averages and the distribution of molar masses, which is performer through calibration using general standards with molar masses in a given range. Many chromatography data systems (CDS) are incapable of processing this data. With the GPC/SEC extension to our well-known ClarityChrom CDS software we offer our customers the possibility to continue working with a familiar software.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Knauer_Clarity_Chrom_Workstation_7ed6c2cb72.jpg" alt="Knauer: ClarityChrom Workstation" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Knauer_Clarity_Chrom_Workstation_7ed6c2cb72.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="839" height="495"><h5>Extensions</h5>AZURA also affords customers the flexibility to extend their GPC/ SEC systems with autosamplers, valves, feed pumps, and column thermostats. In fact, many GPC runs are conducted at higher temperatures (&lt;60°C), so the AZURA column thermostat is of great interest.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Knauer_KNAUER_AZURA_Educational_HPLC_System_Column_selection_and_thermostat_567c35ab61.jpg" alt="KNAUER: AZURA GPC/SEC Systems - column thermostats" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Knauer_KNAUER_AZURA_Educational_HPLC_System_Column_selection_and_thermostat_567c35ab61.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1700" height="881"><h5>Pumps</h5>GPC/SEC analyses necessitate lower flow rates and lower pressure than HPLC. GPC/SEC runs are conducted isocratically, so a good isocratic pump is essential for a steady baseline. The AZURA excellent isocratic pump has been optimized to meet the requirements of GPC applications.Options:<ul><li>Normal phase</li><li>Aqueous eluents</li><li>Reversed phase pump with integrated solvent selection valve and degasser</li></ul><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Knauer_High_pressure_gradient_HPLC_pump_AZURA_P_6_1_L_High_Pressure_Pump_with_10_ml_pump_head_stainless_steel_b7d7d07d6c.jpg" alt="Knauer: AZURA GPC/SEC Systems - pumps" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Knauer_High_pressure_gradient_HPLC_pump_AZURA_P_6_1_L_High_Pressure_Pump_with_10_ml_pump_head_stainless_steel_b7d7d07d6c.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1280" height="627"><h5>Detectors</h5>Our AZURA RI detector has been optimized for a better performance with organic solvents. Especially we have worked on significantly lower the drift with THF.Yu can alternatively choose between our UV/VIS detectors, variable single wavelength, multi- wavelength, or diode array.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_AZURA_GPC_SEC_System_AZURA_RID_2_1_2_13953c7ec5.jpg" alt="KNAUER: AZURA GPC/SEC Systems - RID 2.1 detector" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_AZURA_GPC_SEC_System_AZURA_RID_2_1_2_13953c7ec5.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1066" height="438">

KNAUER AZURA® Bio Compact SEC FPLC System

AZURA Compact SEC systems handle time-consuming SEC methods in your lab without occupying your valuable FPLC system.

KNAUER protein purification: The flexible FPLC platformAZURA® Bio purification systems&nbsp;complete solutions for FPLC on a minimum footprint: AZURA FPLC systems combine flexibility and reliability. The biocompatible/metal-free FPLC is the perfect choice for your protein purification task.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_AZURA_Bio_Compact_AC_FPLC_System_6_a874551078.jpg" alt="KNAUER: AZURA® Bio Compact AC FPLC System." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_AZURA_Bio_Compact_AC_FPLC_System_6_a874551078.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1506" height="600">Design your AZURA Bio purification system to fit your needs. Multiple functionalities such as automatic sample injection via autosampler, column switching, buffer and sample selection, and fraction collection enable automation of the purification process.A wide range of detectors ensures the visibility of target molecules. Various flow rates and compatibility with columns from all vendors provide maximum flexibility. The intuitive PurityChrom® software integrates all the advantages of a versatile purification system.<h3>AZURA® Bio Compact SEC FPLC System</h3><h4>For Size Exclusion Chromatography (SEC)</h4>AZURA Compact SEC systems take over time-consuming SEC methods in your lab without blocking your valuable FPLC system. Due to its compact design and intuitive FPLC software PurityChrom®, the system offers outstanding performance and ease of use.&nbsp;Pre-designed methods are included in the software for the designated SEC system and can be easily adapted by changing the column volume. AZURA Compact SEC supports all columns available on the market.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_AZURA_Bio_Compact_SEC_FPLC_System_4_f5efb08061.jpg" alt="KNAUER: AZURA® Bio Compact SEC FPLC System " srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_AZURA_Bio_Compact_SEC_FPLC_System_4_f5efb08061.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1358" height="540"><h3>Key features</h3><ul><li data-start="93" data-end="157">Flow rate: 0.001–10 ml/min (recommended: 0.1–8.0 ml/min)</li><li data-start="158" data-end="197">Maximum system pressure: 50 bar</li><li data-start="198" data-end="276">Injection system: Injection valve for sample injection via sample loop</li><li data-start="277" data-end="347">Detection: Variable single wavelength UV detector (190–500 nm)</li><li data-start="348" data-end="423">Fraction collection: Fraction collector for automated fractionation</li><li data-start="424" data-end="522">Column compatibility: Supports columns from all vendors, including third-party SEC columns</li><li data-start="523" data-end="611">Software: Intuitive and powerful PurityChrom® software, 21 CFR Part 11 compliant</li><li data-start="612" data-end="780">System design:<ul data-start="637" data-end="780"><li data-start="637" data-end="666">Isocratic buffer delivery</li><li data-start="669" data-end="687">Loop injection</li><li data-start="690" data-end="734">Wide range of collection racks available</li><li data-start="737" data-end="780">Specially designed for SEC applications</li></ul></li></ul><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_AZURA_Bio_Compact_SEC_FPLC_System_3_7a4bc1f60b.jpg" alt="KNAUER: AZURA® Bio Compact SEC FPLC System " srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_AZURA_Bio_Compact_SEC_FPLC_System_3_7a4bc1f60b.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1920" height="1152">Don't use your valuable gradient FPLC system for boring and time-consuming size exclusion separations. Choose your dedicated AZURA SEC system.<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:690/490;" src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_AZURA_Bio_Compact_SEC_FPLC_System_45d5079064.webp" alt="KNAUER: AZURA® Bio Compact SEC FPLC System." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_AZURA_Bio_Compact_SEC_FPLC_System_45d5079064.webp 220w," sizes="100vw" width="690" height="490"></figure>With its compact design and intuitive software, the system offers excellent performance, ease of use and supports all SEC columns available on the market.​

KNAUER AZURA® SEC Compact System

The AZURA SEC Compact systems provide excellent price-to-performance value, ideal for labs entering GPC/SEC, process control, or those with limited budgets and educational needs.

<h3>Compact, versatile system for SEC and GPC applications&nbsp;</h3>The AZURA SEC Compact systems offer an outstanding price-to-performance ratio and are the perfect solution for every laboratory entering the analytical world of GPC/SEC, for process control applications, or for limited-budget and educational laboratories.The heart of the systems is the Assistant ASM 2.2L is a docking station for three compact devices. Valves, pumps and UV detectors can be combined in one housing. Routine maintenance work e.g. replacing the lamp of a detector is easily performed by the user.Thanks to its modular concept the systems can be extended with additional components at any time later.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_AZURA_SEC_Compact_System_3_313d153f48.jpg" alt="KNAUER: AZURA® SEC Compact System." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_AZURA_SEC_Compact_System_3_313d153f48.jpg 237w," sizes="100vw" width="1009" height="664"><h3 data-start="857" data-end="879">Key Features</h3><ul data-start="880" data-end="1168"><li data-start="880" data-end="914">Flow rate: 0.001–10 ml/min</li><li data-start="915" data-end="946">Pressure: Up to 400 bar</li><li data-start="947" data-end="997">Intuitive operation with maximum precision</li><li>Injection via valve drive for minimal pressure spikes</li><li data-start="1043" data-end="1095">Supports a wide range of SEC and GPC columns</li><li data-start="1096" data-end="1128">Dedicated SEC/GPC ClarityChrom® add-on for in-depth data evaluation</li><li data-start="1129" data-end="1168">Expandable, space-saving design</li><li data-start="1129" data-end="1168">Suitable for organic and aqueous eluents</li></ul><h3 data-start="1175" data-end="1219">System Components &amp; Configurations</h3><ul data-start="1220" data-end="1486"><li data-start="1220" data-end="1242">Isocratic pump</li><li data-start="1243" data-end="1270">UV and RI detectors</li><li data-start="1271" data-end="1296">Column thermostat</li><li data-start="1297" data-end="1335">Automatic injection (optional)</li><li data-start="1336" data-end="1393">ClarityChrom® add-on for in-depth data evaluation</li><li data-start="1394" data-end="1486">Choose a hardware version for aqueous SEC of biomolecules or organic GPC of polymers</li></ul><h3 data-start="1493" data-end="1520">Detection Options</h3><ul data-start="1521" data-end="1555"><li data-start="1521" data-end="1555">RI, UV, ELSD, PDA, FLD, MS</li></ul><h3 data-start="1562" data-end="1587">Upgrade Options</h3><ul data-start="1588" data-end="1745"><li data-start="1588" data-end="1649">Automatic solvent recycle valve (cost-saving feature)</li><li data-start="1650" data-end="1666">Degasser</li><li data-start="1667" data-end="1686">Autosampler</li><li data-start="1687" data-end="1745">Additional detectors (RI, UV, ELSD, PDA, FLD, ECD)</li></ul>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:1886/1452;" src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_AZURA_SEC_Compact_System_3c56c6482f.webp" alt="KNAUER: AZURA® SEC Compact System." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_AZURA_SEC_Compact_System_3c56c6482f.webp 203w," sizes="100vw" width="1886" height="1452"></figure>

KNAUER AZURA® SEC Lab System

The AZURA SEC Lab systems are ideal for labs requiring top analytical performance, offering unmatched flow precision and ultra-low pulsation for exceptional retention volume accuracy and reproducibility.

<h3>Highest analytical performance and robustness for SEC and GPC applications</h3>The AZURA SEC Lab systems are the perfect choice for laboratories that demands highest analytical performance. The system shows unsurpassed flow precision paired with ultra-low pulsation for outstanding retention volume precision and reproducibility.The autosampler can inject from up to 768 positions via microtiter plates or 108 standard 1.5 ml sample vials and is therefore the perfect choice for larger sample amount as well as for high sample throughput laboratories. Thanks to the reliable and robust design it is the workhorse in any laboratory.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_AZURA_SEC_Lab_System_e161ecef84.webp" alt="KNAUER: AZURA® SEC Lab System." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_AZURA_SEC_Lab_System_e161ecef84.webp 203w," sizes="100vw" width="1886" height="1452"><h3>Key Features</h3><ul><li>Injection volume: 1 –1000 µl&nbsp;</li><li>Easy maintenance</li><li>Great selection of SEC/GPC columns</li><li>Unsurpassed flow precision paired with ultra-low pulsation for</li><li>Highest analytical performance</li><li>Suitable for organic and aqueous eluents</li><li>Highest level of automation</li><li>Choose the matching hardware version for aqueous SEC of biomolecules or organic GPC of polymers</li></ul><h3>Upgrade Options</h3><ul><li>Save operating costs with an automatic solvent recycle valve</li><li>Degasser</li><li>Detector (RI, UV, ELSD, PDA, FLD, ECD)</li></ul><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_AZURA_SEC_Lab_System_2_2cbe13a95d.webp" alt="KNAUER: AZURA® SEC Lab System." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_AZURA_SEC_Lab_System_2_2cbe13a95d.webp 234w," sizes="100vw" width="953" height="635"> All wetted parts are available in either bioinert materials or for standard phase solvents.

Products focused on GPC/SEC distributed by KNAUER - page 2

Related content

LabRulez at analytica 2026

I waited two years for a start-up grant and wrote ten versions of my project idea

MDCW: The Premier Up-and-Coming Event in Chromatography