<p><strong>Even in chromatography, appearances can be misleading. If you have ever performed a Liquid Chromatography (LC) or Gel Permeation Chromatography/Size Exclusion Chromatography (GPC/SEC) analysis and noticed unexpected signals appearing in your chromatogram, you may have encountered so-called chromatographic “ghosts.” These unanticipated peaks can complicate data interpretation and challenge even experienced analysts. Fortunately, these ghost peaks are not supernatural phenomena. In this Halloween-themed overview, we explore their origin, discuss strategies to minimize their occurrence, and describe practical approaches to identify them.</strong></p><h4><strong>What are ghost peaks?</strong></h4><p>When a chromatogram displays additional peaks that cannot be directly attributed to analytes of interest, these signals are commonly referred to as ghost peaks or system peaks [1]. They arise when the equilibrium between the mobile phase and stationary phase is temporarily disturbed [1]. Such disturbances often occur during sample injection, when the system experiences a transient compositional or physical imbalance [1][2].</p><p>Ghost peaks are particularly evident when using refractive index (RI) detection, where even injections of pure mobile phase can generate detectable signals (see Fig. 1). In GPC/SEC applications, these peaks frequently appear toward the end of the chromatogram, corresponding to the transition between size-based separation and interaction-driven effects [2]. Their appearance can closely resemble genuine analyte peaks and, in some cases, they may partially overlap with them, further complicating interpretation.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Fig_1_Chromatogram_of_a_20_l_blank_injection_mobile_phase_with_RI_detection_Graphic_by_KNAUER_72b81051f9.jpg" alt="KNAUER: Fig. 1 Chromatogram of a 20 µl blank injection (= mobile phase) with RI detection. Graphic by KNAUER." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Fig_1_Chromatogram_of_a_20_l_blank_injection_mobile_phase_with_RI_detection_Graphic_by_KNAUER_72b81051f9.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="611"></p><h4><strong>How to minimize ghost peaks?</strong></h4><p>Ghost peaks may manifest as either positive or negative signals. While their retention time typically remains consistent, their intensity, shape, and area can vary depending on injection conditions, sample composition, and injection volume (see Fig. 2). Due to this variability, they are not suitable as reference markers, for example in GPC/SEC analyses.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Fig_2_Overlay_chromatograms_measured_with_RID_and_20_l_injection_volume_c5b4b8f3f6.jpg" alt="KNAUER: Fig. 2 Overlay chromatograms measured with RID and 20 µl injection volume. Dotted black: citric acid; solid black: ethylene glycol. Graphic by KNAUER." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Fig_2_Overlay_chromatograms_measured_with_RID_and_20_l_injection_volume_c5b4b8f3f6.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="611"></p><p>To reduce their impact, several practical measures can be implemented:</p><ul><li>Ensure that samples are dissolved in the same mobile phase used in the chromatographic system</li><li>Use smaller injection volumes to limit system disturbance</li><li>Allow sufficient equilibration time for the system before analysis</li></ul><p>Despite these precautions, ghost peaks cannot be completely eliminated. Therefore, recognizing and correctly assigning them is essential for reliable data interpretation. Failure to do so may lead to misinterpretation of chromatographic results.</p><h3><strong>How to unmask ghost peaks?</strong></h3><p>A systematic approach can help identify the origin of ghost peaks. One effective strategy involves preparing each component of the mobile phase individually, spiking them into the mobile phase, and injecting them separately.</p><p>For example, in an aqueous SEC method using phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), individual injections of buffer components such as NaCl, KCl, KH₂PO₄, and Na₂HPO₄ can be compared with a blank injection (see Fig. 3). By overlaying these chromatograms, it becomes possible to assign specific ghost peaks to individual buffer constituents. This not only clarifies their origin but also provides an opportunity to optimize the method by adjusting buffer composition or concentration.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Fig_3_Overlay_chromatograms_measured_with_RID_and_20_l_injection_volume_c5f57e44f6.jpg" alt="KNAUER: Fig. 3 Overlay chromatograms measured with RID and 20 µl injection volume. Black: blank (mobile phase = PBS); light green: sodium chloride; dark green: potassium chloride; light blue: potassium dihydrogen phosphate; dark blue: disodium hydrogen phosphate. Graphic by KNAUER." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Fig_3_Overlay_chromatograms_measured_with_RID_and_20_l_injection_volume_c5f57e44f6.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="611"></p><p>Another practical approach involves comparing a blank chromatogram (mobile phase only) with that of the sample. Peaks that appear at identical retention times in both chromatograms can be confidently identified as ghost peaks.</p><p>This concept is illustrated in Fig. 4 for an aqueous SEC system using PBS. Blank injections reveal two small peaks detected by the RI detector. In the case of citric acid, only two distinct peaks are observed instead of three, as one ghost peak coelutes with the analyte, forming a subtle shoulder (Fig. 4A). This demonstrates how ghost peaks can distort peak shapes and affect interpretation.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Fig_4_Left_4a_Overlay_of_chromatograms_recorded_with_the_RID_using_a_20_L_injection_volume_1732ef3a18.jpg" alt="KNAUER: Fig. 4 Left (4a): Overlay of chromatograms recorded with the RID using a 20 µL injection volume. Orange: citric acid; black: blank (mobile phase = PBS)" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Fig_4_Left_4a_Overlay_of_chromatograms_recorded_with_the_RID_using_a_20_L_injection_volume_1732ef3a18.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="611"></p><p>In contrast, ethylene glycol produces three clearly resolved peaks (Fig. 4B), where ghost peaks do not interfere directly with the analyte signal. Nevertheless, their identification remains crucial to ensure accurate evaluation of the chromatographic data.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Fig_4_Left_4b_Overlay_of_chromatograms_recorded_with_the_RID_using_a_20_L_injection_volume_149ed84d87.jpg" alt="KNAUER: Fig. 4b - Overlay of chromatograms recorded with the RID using a 20 µL injection volume. Orange: ethylene glycol; black: blank (mobile phase = PBS). Graphic by KNAUER." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Fig_4_Left_4b_Overlay_of_chromatograms_recorded_with_the_RID_using_a_20_L_injection_volume_149ed84d87.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="611"></p><h4><strong>Conclusion</strong></h4><p>Ghost peaks are a common yet often misunderstood phenomenon in LC and GPC/SEC analyses. Although they may initially appear mysterious, they are the result of predictable physicochemical processes within the chromatographic system. By understanding their origin, applying appropriate experimental strategies, and using systematic identification approaches, analysts can effectively distinguish them from true analyte signals. Recognizing these “ghosts” ensures more accurate data interpretation and helps prevent misleading conclusions in chromatographic analysis.</p><blockquote><ul><li>If you’d like to learn more about detecting and minimizing system or ghost peaks in practice, take a look at our <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/VTN_0046_knauer_understanding_system_peaks_in_gpc_sec_for_accurate_and_reliable_analysis_f134154935.pdf"><strong>Technical Note VTN0046</strong></a> on identifying and reducing system peaks in GPC/SEC.</li><li>If you're planning to set up or optimize your GPC/SEC workflow, feel free to contact us at <strong>sales@knauer.net</strong>.&nbsp;</li><li>For further information on this topic, please contact our author: <strong>wesolowski@knauer.net</strong></li></ul></blockquote>

GPC/SEC Made Easy – Unmask Ghost Peaks

News from LabRulezLCMS Library - Week 15, 2026

<p><strong>Traditional protein purification workflows in many laboratories still rely on ultracentrifugation and long incubation steps. These approaches often involve multi-step protocols, extended processing times, and the use of specialized equipment. As a result, workflows can become complex, time-consuming, and prone to variability.</strong></p><p>Magnetic bead-based protein purification offers a faster, simpler, and more efficient alternative by enabling selective capture and rapid magnetic separation.</p><h3><strong>Limitations of Conventional Protein Cleanup Methods</strong></h3><p><strong>In standard laboratory workflows, protein cleanup typically involves:</strong></p><ul><li>Multiple processing steps</li><li>Centrifugation and column equilibration</li><li>Dependence on specialized instrumentation</li><li>Long processing times</li></ul><p><strong>These factors introduce several challenges:</strong></p><ul><li>Increased complexity of workflows</li><li>Variability between runs, reducing reproducibility</li><li>Risk of sample loss during transfers, especially for small sample volumes or scarce targets</li><li>Limited throughput due to manual handling</li></ul><h3><strong>Principle of Magnetic Bead-Based Purification</strong></h3><p>Magnetic beads enable selective protein capture through surface functionalization.</p><p>Each bead is coated with <strong>streptavidin</strong>, allowing the attachment of a <strong>biotinylated ligand</strong>. This ligand can be selected based on the target analyte and may include:</p><ul><li>Antibodies</li><li>Aptamers</li><li>Antigen fragments</li></ul><p>This functionalization step provides the beads with the specificity required to bind the target analyte.</p><h3><strong>Materials and Key Components</strong></h3><h4><strong>Magnetic Beads</strong></h4><ul><li>Streptavidin-coated surface</li><li>Functionalized with biotinylated ligands</li></ul><h3><strong>Ligands</strong></h3><ul><li>Selected for target specificity</li><li>Attached to beads prior to purification</li></ul><h3><strong>Step-by-Step Procedure</strong></h3><h4><strong>1. Bead Activation</strong></h4><p>Load the biotinylated ligand onto the streptavidin-coated magnetic beads to confer specificity.</p><h4><strong>2. Washing</strong></h4><p>Remove impurities after ligand loading to prepare the beads for interaction with the sample.</p><h4><strong>3. Incubation with Sample</strong></h4><p>Incubate the functionalized beads with the sample to allow binding between the ligand and the target analyte.</p><h4><strong>4. Magnetic Separation</strong></h4><p>Place the sample on a magnet:</p><ul><li>Magnetic beads (with bound analyte) are attracted to the vessel wall</li><li>The liquid phase can be separated easily</li></ul><h4><strong>5. Washing</strong></h4><p>Wash the beads while they remain immobilized by the magnetic field to remove:</p><ul><li>Weak interactions</li><li>Non-specific binding</li></ul><h4><strong>6. Elution</strong></h4><p>Add an elution solvent to release the purified analyte from the beads.</p><h3><strong>Downstream Applications</strong></h3><p>After elution, the purified sample is ready for further analysis, including:</p><ul><li>LC-MS</li><li>Western blot</li><li>ELISA</li><li>Activity assays</li></ul><h4><strong>Advantages of Magnetic Bead-Based Workflows</strong></h4><p>Magnetic bead-based purification offers several key benefits:</p><h4><strong>Speed and Simplicity</strong></h4><ul><li>No centrifugation required</li><li>No complex instrumentation needed</li></ul><h4><strong>Improved Reproducibility</strong></h4><ul><li>Consistent magnetic separation</li><li>Reduced variability between runs</li></ul><h4><strong>Reduced Sample Loss</strong></h4><ul><li>Fewer transfer steps</li><li>Suitable for small or scarce samples</li></ul><h4><strong>Scalability and Throughput</strong></h4><ul><li>Compatible with automation</li><li>Supports microplate formats:<ul><li>96-well plates</li><li>384-well plates</li></ul></li></ul><h3><strong>Biozen™ Magnetic Beads Features</strong></h3><p>Phenomenex <strong>Biozen™ magnetic beads</strong> incorporate several design features:</p><ul><li><strong>Hydrophilic co-polymer surface</strong><ul><li>Reduces non-specific hydrophobic interactions</li></ul></li><li><strong>Biotinylated BSA spacer</strong><ul><li>Acts as a linker to streptavidin</li><li>Helps orient capture ligands</li></ul></li><li><strong>Monodispersed capture ligands</strong><ul><li>Optimized binding capacity</li></ul></li></ul><p>These features contribute to:</p><ul><li>Reduced non-specific binding</li><li>Improved capture consistency</li><li>Cleaner eluates</li></ul><h3><strong>When to Use Magnetic Beads</strong></h3><p>Magnetic bead-based purification is particularly suitable when:</p><ul><li>Sample volumes are small</li><li>Fast turnaround is required</li><li>Minimal equipment is preferred</li><li>High-throughput workflows are needed</li></ul><h3><strong>Conclusion</strong></h3><p>Magnetic bead-based protein purification simplifies traditional workflows by eliminating centrifugation and reducing complexity. Through selective capture and efficient magnetic separation, it enables faster processing, improved reproducibility, and compatibility with high-throughput and automated systems.</p>

Magnetic Bead-Based Protein Purification: A Faster and More Efficient Workflow

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Phenomenex is a global technology leader committed to developing novel analytical chemistry solutions that solve the separation and purification challenges of researchers in industrial, government and academic laboratories.

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Based in Berlin, KNAUER is a medium-sized, owner-managed company that has been serving the sciences since 1962. We develop and manufacture scientific instruments of superior quality for liquid chromatography, including: Analytical HPLC/UHPLC, Preparative HPLC, Fast protein liquid chromatography (FPLC), Multi-column chromatography/Simulated moving bed (SMB) chromatography. High pressure dosing, in-line detection systems, and osmometry are additional business areas.

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<h4><strong>How about a 30 minute coffee break along with a taste of Empower?</strong></h4><h4><strong>Here you go!</strong></h4><p>Discover how to get more out of Empower by using Advanced Custom Fields.<br>In this short, example‑driven session, we will show how to build and apply Custom Fields that streamline calculations, improve reporting, and support data integrity.</p><h5><strong>You will learn:</strong></h5><ul><li>How to create and configure advanced Custom Fields</li><li>Practical examples (ratios, conditional logic, peak‑based calculations)</li><li>Best practices to avoid common errors and ensure validation‑ready results</li></ul><p><i>Join us to boost your Empower skills and make your data processing more efficient.</i></p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Ralf Schröder (Informatics Market Development Manager)</p><p><strong>Presenter:&nbsp;</strong>Carsten Fischer (Informatics Product Marketing, EMEA)</p></blockquote>

Waters Corporation: Informatics series #31 Empower Advanced Custom Fields - Examples

Informatics series #31 Empower Advanced Custom Fields - Examples

Learn how to use Advanced Custom Fields in Empower to streamline calculations, improve reporting, and ensure validation-ready, compliant data processing.

Informatics series #31 Empower Examples

<div><h4><strong>Navigating Challenges and Opportunities for Environmental Testing Labs Under the Revised EU Water Framework Directive</strong></h4><p><strong>The European Commission’s proposed updates to the Water Framework, Groundwater, and Environmental Quality Standards Directives are bringing new responsibilities and opportunities for environmental testing labs. With expanded pollutant lists - including PFAS, pharmaceuticals, and pesticide metabolites - and stricter monitoring and reporting requirements, the landscape of water analysis is rapidly evolving.</strong></p><p>Join the 4th Waters Environmental Webinar Series to explore how your lab can navigate these challenges and turn regulatory change into opportunity.</p><p>Register for free and partner with us to shape the future of European water quality.</p><h5><strong>Why Attend</strong></h5><p>Stay ahead of new EU regulatory demands with insights from leading experts. Gain practical guidance, share experiences with peers, and prepare your lab for the next generation of water quality standards.</p><h5><strong>Highlights</strong></h5><ul><li>New pollutant categories and analytical challenges</li><li>Updates to monitoring protocols and reporting</li><li>Innovative methods to meet revised Environmental Quality Standards</li><li>Strategic guidance for compliance and adaptation</li></ul><p><strong>Lead the change in water analysis—stay ahead, stay compliant, and make a real impact.</strong></p><h4><strong>EPISODE 4: Analysis of Glyphosate, Glyphosinate and AMPA in water without the need of derivatisation</strong></h4><h4><strong>What you Will Learn</strong></h4><ul><li>Required method conditions and instrumentation</li><li>The most challenging compounds</li><li>How waters_connect™ for Quan supports method development and routine analysis</li></ul></div>

Analysis of Glyphosate, Glyphosinate and AMPA in water without the need of derivatisation

Learn about required method conditions and instrumentation for Glyphosate, Glyphosinate and AMPA analysis in water without derivatisation.

Analysis of Glyphosate, Glyphosinate in water

<div><h4><strong>Navigating Challenges and Opportunities for Environmental Testing Labs Under the Revised EU Water Framework Directive</strong></h4><p><strong>The European Commission’s proposed updates to the Water Framework, Groundwater, and Environmental Quality Standards Directives are bringing new responsibilities and opportunities for environmental testing labs. With expanded pollutant lists - including PFAS, pharmaceuticals, and pesticide metabolites - and stricter monitoring and reporting requirements, the landscape of water analysis is rapidly evolving.</strong></p><p>Join the 4th Waters Environmental Webinar Series to explore how your lab can navigate these challenges and turn regulatory change into opportunity.</p><p>Register for free and partner with us to shape the future of European water quality.</p><h5><strong>Why Attend</strong></h5><p>Stay ahead of new EU regulatory demands with insights from leading experts. Gain practical guidance, share experiences with peers, and prepare your lab for the next generation of water quality standards.</p><h5><strong>Highlights</strong></h5><ul><li>New pollutant categories and analytical challenges</li><li>Updates to monitoring protocols and reporting</li><li>Innovative methods to meet revised Environmental Quality Standards</li><li>Strategic guidance for compliance and adaptation</li></ul><p><strong>Lead the change in water analysis—stay ahead, stay compliant, and make a real impact.</strong></p><h4><strong>EPISODE 5: Add a New Dimension - MS Imaging for Environmental Analysis</strong></h4><h4><strong>What you Will Learn</strong></h4><ul><li>What is MS imaging?</li><li>Key benefits of Desorption Electro Spray Ionisation (DESI) for environmental analysis</li><li>Practical insights and emerging applications</li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>Speaker:</strong> Emmanuelle Claude (Consulting Scientist, Waters Corporation)</p></blockquote></div>

Add a New Dimension - MS Imaging for Environmental Analysis

Learn about MS imaging and discover key benefits of Desorption Electro Spray Ionisation (DESI) for environmental analysis.

MS Imaging for Environmental Analysis

<h4><strong>Food Safety Webinar Series: When Food Meets the Lab</strong></h4><p><strong>Food testing in the region still revolves around “legacy” contaminants that decide release, rejection, and recall discussions - veterinary drug residues, pesticide residues and fumigants, and toxic elements including species-sensitive forms, in different food matrices. This 3-part series is built for audiences where regulatory expectations reference Codex-based frameworks, country-specific legislative guidelines, and import/export-market requirements that influence testing scope, reporting limits, and confirmation criteria. Each webinar focuses on the analytical factors that drive outcomes: matrix effects and co-extractives, trace-level quantitation, transition/ion-ratio checks, interference control, and reportable result logic.</strong></p><p>Keynote expert speakers will set the regulatory context, give a glimpse of the current trends, and future implications. Agilent workflow segments map these needs to sample preparation nuances, LC-MS/MS for multi-class residues, GC-MS/MS and headspace GC for residue/fumigant markers, and ICP-MS plus LC-ICP-MS for heavy metals and speciation, including QC structures and data review patterns used in high-throughput labs, to name a few.</p><h5><strong>Webinar Series Details</strong></h5><ul><li>Register once to attend the complete 3-part series</li><li>Submit your questions beforehand</li><li>Access recorded sessions anytime within one year</li><li>Certificate of attendance will be provided to all attendees</li></ul><h4><strong>Part 2: Pesticide Residues &amp; Fumigants Edition</strong></h4><p>Pesticide residue testing is shaped by Codex/EU-aligned expectations that frequently drive import decisions, while fumigant markers remain high-scrutiny topics for ingredients and finished foods, especially in spice, grain, seed, and produce supply chains. This webinar connects the regulatory context to method choices and result interpretation: broad-scope multi-residue coverage versus matrix complexity, QuEChERS-based extraction and cleanup, split-platform workflows (LC-MS/MS and GC-MS/MS). For fumigants, the focus includes sample handling for volatility, targeted measurement approaches for ethylene oxide/2-CE and phosphine-related testing where relevant, and reporting pitfalls that trigger disputes.&nbsp;</p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Dr. Vandana Tripathy (Principal Scientist &amp; Network Coordinator, AINP on Pesticide Residues, ICAR-IARI; FSSAI Scientific Panel on Pesticide Residues, India)</p><p><strong>Presenter:&nbsp;</strong>Dr. Yu-Feng Zhang (Application Engineer, Agilent Technologies, Singapore)</p></blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Food Safety Webinar Series: When Food Meets the Lab

Pesticide Residues & Fumigants Edition

Webinar on pesticide residues and fumigants: LC-MS/MS, GC-MS/MS, QuEChERS workflows and Codex/EU-aligned regulatory reporting.

<div><h4><strong>Unlock the Power of the Latest Empower CDS Releases</strong></h4><p><strong>Since the base release of Empower Chromatography Data System (CDS) in 2010, we have gone through 36 version updates. These updates have included new features, enhancements to existing functionality, and numerous updates across multiple areas - from instrument support to infrastructure technology.</strong></p><p>In this webinar we will focus on new features and updates in recent releases impacting compliance, an extremely important topic for many of you.</p><h5><strong>What you’ll understand by the end</strong></h5><ul><li>Risks of using outdated software</li><li>Support status of various Empower Software versions</li><li>Security enhancements to Empower CDS</li><li>Recent updates in USP calculations</li><li>Risk reduction of potential bias in the laboratory</li><li>Streamline the lab with Multi Angle Light Scattering and monitoring application</li></ul><h5><strong>Who should attend</strong></h5><ul><li>This webinar is designed for Lab Managers, Empower System Administrators, Quality, Quality IT, and Lab Personnel.</li></ul><p>Please join us for a lively discussion as we explore this topic. As always, please bring your questions for this exclusive opportunity to ask our experts anything about Empower Software.</p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Neil Lander (Senior Principal Product Manager, Waters Corporation)</p><p>Neil has worked for Waters Corporation since 1994 and has held a variety of positions including Technical Support Specialist, Technical Trainer, Manager Customer Education and currently, Senior Principal Product Manager focusing on Informatics solutions.</p><p>He provides internal support for Empower Chromatography Data System and is focused on developing laboratory software solutions that help organizations achieve their scientific and operational objectives.</p></blockquote></div>

Waters Corporation: Empower Tips: Ask Me Anything About Updates in Empower Software to Advance Your Compliance

Empower Tips: Ask Me Anything About Updates in Empower Software to Advance Your Compliance

Webinar on recent Empower CDS releases, covering compliance updates, security enhancements, and laboratory risk reduction strategies.

Updates in Empower Software to Advance Compliance

<p><strong>Purifying synthetic peptides is a critical step in developing advanced biotherapeutics like GLP-1 receptor agonists. Even with precise synthesis, impurities such as deletions, truncations, and chemical modifications are unavoidable, making purification essential for achieving high purity, optimal yield, and cost efficiency.</strong></p><p>Join this SelectScience® webinar to discover why reversed-phase chromatography (RP) remains the gold standard for peptide purification and analysis. This session will be led by Bill Warren, Principal Consultant Product Manager, Waters Corporation, who has extensive experience with chromatography techniques for protein purification. He will guide you through the complete lab-scale purification process for a GLP-1 RA using optical detection, and will show how these strategies can be applied to other synthetic peptide modalities, including radio-labeled peptides, cyclic peptides, peptide antimicrobials, and more.</p><h4><strong>Who should attend?</strong></h4><p>This event is perfect for:</p><ul><li>Professionals in peptide research</li><li>Biopharmaceutical contract development and manufacturing organizations (CDMOs)</li><li>Biopharmaceutical contract manufacturing officers (CMOs)</li><li>Biopharmaceutical contract research organizations (CROs)</li><li>Biopharmaceutical academics</li><li>Professionals in biopharmaceuticals</li></ul><h4><strong>What will this webinar cover?</strong></h4><ul><li>Understand strategies for developing analytical scale biotherapeutic peptide separations.</li><li>Learn techniques for lab-scale preparative synthetic peptide separations and fraction analysis.</li><li>Explore how reversed-phase mobile phase modifiers and chemistries impact peptide separation performance.</li><li>Gain practical troubleshooting tips for reversed-phase peptide separations.</li></ul><h5><strong>Certificate of attendance</strong></h5><ul><li>If you attend the live webinar, you will automatically receive a certificate of attendance, including a learning outcomes summary, for continuing education purposes.</li><li>If you view the on-demand webinar, you can request a certificate of attendance by emailing editor@selectscience.net.</li></ul><h5><strong>Webinar details</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Cost:</strong> Free to attend</li><li><strong>Location: </strong>Online</li><li><strong>Duration</strong>: 60 minutes</li></ul><p><i>Registration is required to secure your place. If you register but can’t attend live, you will receive a link to the on‑demand recording once it becomes available.</i></p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Bill Warren (Principal Consultant Product Manager, Waters Corporation)</p><p>Bill Warren joined Waters Corporation as a senior applications chemist involved with the research and development of HPLC, FPLC, and capillary electrophoresis applications for the analysis and purification of proteins, peptides, and nucleic acids. He now acts as Principal Consultant Product Manager whose responsibilities involve assisting in the development and commercialization of innovative reagents and chromatography-based technologies for the separation, purification, and characterization of biological molecules.</p><p><strong>Moderator: </strong>Olivia Long (Editorial Team, SelectScience)</p></blockquote>

SelectScience: The gold standard to achieve optimal peptide purification with reversed-phase chromatography

The gold standard to achieve optimal peptide purification with reversed-phase chromatography

Join this webinar to discover why reversed-phase chromatography (RP) remains the gold standard for peptide purification and analysis.

Peptide purification with reversed-phase chromatography

<p><strong>Join us for this dual‑session SelectScience® webinar exploring hydrogen impurity testing and analytical strategies for achieving ISO 14687‑aligned fuel quality. To better suit your schedule and time zone, the webinar will be offered in two separate sessions:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Session 1:</strong> 09:00 BST | 10:00 CEST</li><li><strong>Session 2: </strong>10:00 PDT | 13:00 EDT | 18:00 BST</li></ul><p>As hydrogen scales across energy, transport, and industrial applications, understanding fuel purity is fundamental for compliance, safety, and uptime. At present, only a limited number of instruments are capable of addressing the full hydrogen impurity matrix, meaning that most testing strategies continue to rely on a combination of analytical technologies aligned to the specific production pathway.</p><p>In this webinar, Tyler Roberts, Market Manager of Applied Markets at Shimadzu, presents a practical, process‑aware framework for hydrogen impurity testing. He will outline how different analytical technologies contribute to a complete workflow, including:</p><ul><li><strong>System GC</strong> for permanent gases, hydrocarbons, and sulfur compounds</li><li><strong>GC‑MS</strong> for organic impurity identification and speciation</li><li><strong>Ion chromatography</strong> for ammonia and halogenated acids at the lowest required detection limits</li><li><strong>FTIR</strong> for rapid multi‑component screening from a single sample</li></ul><p>Covering pathways from steam methane reforming (SMR) and electrolysis to ammonia cracking and liquid organic hydrogen carrier (LOHC) systems, this session will guide you in building the analytical foundation for confident hydrogen quality assurance benchmarked against ISO 14687.</p><h4><strong>Who should attend?</strong></h4><p>This event is perfect for:</p><ul><li>Analytical chemists</li><li>QC lab scientists</li><li>Hydrogen production process engineers</li><li>Fuel cell researchers</li><li>Fuel cell test engineers</li><li>Catalyst researchers</li><li>Lab managers</li><li>Lab procurement specialists</li></ul><h5><strong>Certificate of attendance</strong></h5><ul><li>If you attend the live webinar, you will automatically receive a certificate of attendance, including a learning outcomes summary, for continuing education purposes.</li><li><i>If you view the on-demand webinar, you can request a certificate of attendance by emailing editor@selectscience.net.</i></li></ul><h4><strong>Webinar details</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Cost: </strong>Free to attend</li><li><strong>Location: </strong>Online</li><li><strong>Duration:</strong> 60 minutes</li></ul><p><i>Registration is required to secure your place. If you register but can’t attend live, you will receive a link to the on‑demand recording once it becomes available</i></p><blockquote><p><strong>Speaker: </strong>Tyler Roberts (Market Manager, Applied Markets, Shimadzu Scientific Instruments)</p><p>Tyler Roberts holds a Master’s in Analytical Chemistry from the University of Arizona and has built a reputation for bridging deep technical expertise with market-driven innovation. Tyler is now the Market Manager for Applied Markets at Shimadzu Scientific Instruments, where he leads technical marketing strategy across the energy, chemicals, and materials sectors and is a vocal advocate for advancing analytical science in high-impact industries.</p><p><strong>Moderator:</strong> Olivia Long (Editorial Team, SelectScience)</p></blockquote>

Shimadzu: What’s in your hydrogen? Analytical toolkits for fuel purity analysis

What’s in your hydrogen? Analytical toolkits for fuel purity analysis

Hydrogen impurity testing and ISO 14687 compliance. Discover GC, GC-MS, IC, and FTIR strategies for reliable fuel quality assurance.

Analytical toolkits for fuel purity analysis

<p><strong>Building on the earlier sessions in this webinar series, this installment focuses on the regulatory framework and inspection expectations surrounding Stage 3 process validation and continued process verification (CPV).</strong></p><p>During this session, Peter will provide practical insight into how regulators assess ongoing process monitoring, statistical process control, data trending, and lifecycle management to confirm a continued state of control.</p><p>Participants will gain a clear understanding of how to design, implement, and sustain compliant Stage 3 programs that withstand regulatory scrutiny, support risk-based decision-making, and enable effective post-approval change.</p><p>A live Q&amp;A will allow attendees to discuss regulatory challenges, common inspection observations, and practical considerations for implementing Stage 3 process validation programs.</p><p>This series is designed for analytical scientists, quality professionals, and anyone involved in method validation, transfer, or regulatory submissions.</p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Peter Baker (President, Live Oak Quality Assurance LLC)</p><p>Peter E. Baker, President, Live Oak Quality Assurance LLC, has been consulting nationally and internationally since April 2019.</p><p>Prior to consulting, Peter spent 11 years as a U.S. FDA Drug Investigator, with most of those years spent working in FDA’s overseas offices located in India, China and Chile.</p><p>Peter was named FDA Investigator of the Year in 2013 for his work uncovering serious breaches in data integrity and has special interest in data governance and compliance with 21 CFR Part 11.</p><p>Live Oak focuses on training and employee empowerment in critical thinking, with the goal of improving the quality of medicines through good data management.</p><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Stephanie N. Harden, Ph.D. (Senior Manager, Small Molecule Core Solutions – LC/MS, Waters Corporation)</p><p>Stephanie Harden leads the Product Marketing and Scientific teams for Waters’ small molecule HPLC portfolio.</p><p>With over 25 years of experience in product and segment marketing, she has a proven track record in strategic program development, cross-functional leadership, and market-driven innovation.</p><p>Her work connects scientific insight with commercial strategy to drive customer-focused solutions and sustained business growth. Stephanie holds a PhD in Chemistry from the University of Bristol, UK,and is a widely cited author.</p></blockquote>

Waters Corporation: Managing Process Performance in Stage 3 Process Validation: Regulatory Expectations for Continued Process Verification

Managing Process Performance in Stage 3 Process Validation: Regulatory Expectations for Continued Process Verification

Gain practical insights into regulatory expectations for CPV and strengthen your approach to maintaining process performance 

Process Performance in Stage 3 Process Validation:

<p><strong>In Part 2 of our three-part Chemoproteomics Master Class Series, we move beyond foundational strategies to explore real-world applications led by experts actively advancing the field. Dr. Mikhail Savitski will highlight the development and use of high-throughput peptide centric local stability assay (HT-PELSA) to map ligand binding sites and interactions. This screening strategy can provide insight to drug targets and specificity with peptide level resolution. Mikhail will give examples to show where this can be most effective in a drug discovery pipeline, and uncover new biology.</strong></p><h4><strong>Why Attend</strong></h4><ul><li>Gain insight into HT-PELSA, a cutting-edge assay paired with the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/836"><strong>Thermo Scientific™ Orbitrap™ Astral™ Mass Spectrometer</strong></a> to pinpoint ligand binding sites with peptide-level precision.</li><li>Learn how this method can enhance target discovery and specificity in your drug development pipelines.</li><li>See real-world examples of HT-PELSA uncovering new biology and accelerating chemoproteomic workflows.</li></ul><blockquote><p><span><strong>Presenter: </strong></span>Mikhail Savitski (Team Leader, Head of Proteomics Facility, and Senior Scientist, European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL))</p><p>Mikhail Savitski, Ph.D., heads Functional Proteomics and the Proteomics Core Facility at EMBL Heidelberg. He is recognized for pioneering Thermal Proteome Profiling (TPP), enabling proteome-wide drug target discovery and protein stability studies. In 2024, he received the HUPO Discovery Award for his impact on proteomics research.</p><p><strong>Moderator: </strong>Brett Larsen (Sr. Marketing Specialist Proteomics, Thermo Fisher Scientific)</p><p>Brett Larsen is a leader in chemoproteomics and post-translational modification analysis at Thermo Fisher Scientific. With over 25 years of mass spectrometry experience, he has led proteomics at LTRI Toronto and advanced applications at MDS Proteomics. Brett brings practical expertise in translating complex workflows into real-world discovery.</p></blockquote>

Thermo Fisher Scientific: Powering drug discovery: virtual master class

From experts to applications: Screening protein-drug interactions with HT-PELSA

Part 2 of the Chemoproteomics Master Class shows how HT-PELSA with Orbitrap Astral MS reveals ligand binding sites for drug discovery.

Screening protein-drug interactions with HT-PELSA

<p><strong>In Part 3 of our three-part Chemoproteomics Master Class Series, we continue to explore real-world applications led by experts actively advancing the field. In this session, Dr. Martin Steger will highlight advances in a scalable screening platform at NEOsphere supporting activity-based proteome profiling. This approach is widely used to hunt for protein reactive sites that can bind ligands and drug molecules. Martin will share practical insights into the power of chemoproteomics for biotechnology companies focused on drug discovery.</strong></p><h4><strong>Why Attend</strong></h4><ul><li>Learn how proteome-wide covalent screening accelerates target identification.</li><li>See real examples of activity-based profiling applied to drug design.</li><li>Get expert advice on integrating chemoproteomic tools into your discovery pipeline.</li></ul><blockquote><p><span><strong>Presenter: </strong></span>Martin Steger (Head of Degrader Biochemistry, NEOsphere)</p><p>Martin Steger, Ph.D., is Head of Degrader Biochemistry and Co-founder of NEOsphere Biotechnologies, developing high-throughput MS-based proteomics platforms. With over 10 years of experience, he pioneered DIA-MS approaches to detect degrader-induced ubiquitination. Formerly at Evotec and MPI with Matthias Mann, he discovered the first LRRK2 marker for Parkinson’s.</p><p><strong>Moderator: </strong>Brett Larsen (Sr. Marketing Specialist Proteomics, Thermo Fisher Scientific)</p><p>Brett Larsen is a leader in chemoproteomics and post-translational modification analysis at Thermo Fisher Scientific. With over 25 years of mass spectrometry experience, he has led proteomics at LTRI Toronto and advanced applications at MDS Proteomics. Brett brings practical expertise in translating complex workflows into real-world discovery.</p></blockquote>

High-throughput activity based protein profiling - Systematic mapping of covalent drug-protein interactions on a proteome-wide scale

Part 3 explores activity-based proteome profiling and covalent screening for faster target discovery in drug development.

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