<div><div><div>Scientists at IOCB Prague have developed a breakthrough technology that streamlines aptamer development. The new method integrates several biochemical and bioinformatics steps and paves the way for new diagnostic and therapeutic applications. Ongoing applications include wearable sensors that monitor selected biomarkers in real time and provide early warnings of impending health complications. The findings were published in Nature Communications.</div></div><div>Aptamers are short DNA or RNA strands that can recognize and bind to a specific target molecule with high precision. Similar to antibodies, they can be used to detect these molecules or modulate their activity. Unlike antibodies, they are much more stable, can be produced synthetically, and can be chemically modified to achieve the desired properties. As a result, they can offer capabilities that cannot be achieved with antibodies.</div><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/UOCHB_Nova_technologie_inovuje_vyvoj_aptameru_syntetickych_alternativ_protilatek_2_81e99b9900.jpg" alt="IOCHB Prague: New technology streamlines the development of aptamers, synthetic alternatives to antibodies: Chemically modified DNA aptamer bound to the target protein." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_UOCHB_Nova_technologie_inovuje_vyvoj_aptameru_syntetickych_alternativ_protilatek_2_81e99b9900.jpg 228w," sizes="100vw" width="1343" height="916">As demand grows for accurate and rapid diagnostic tools, aptamers are often better suited to these applications than antibodies. However, developing aptamers is both experimentally demanding and time-consuming. A team of scientists from IOCB Prague, led by Dr. Marek Ondruš and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://hocek.group.uochb.cz/en">Prof. Michal Hocek</a>, has now developed a technology that significantly shortens the development process.“Developing an aptamer is often like looking for a needle in a haystack. Among trillions of different DNA sequences, we search for the one that binds strongly and specifically to a target molecule. Our new approach first screen for ‘aptamer families’ – hundreds of related sequences – and then identify the best-performing member of the family. This approach can reduce development time from several months to only a few days,” says Marek Ondruš.<blockquote>Video:<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_3zXUeVMugU"> New technology streamlines the development of aptamers, synthetic alternatives to antibodies&nbsp;</a></blockquote>The team has also expanded the potential applications of aptamers by chemically modifying their building blocks. For example, introducing functional groups similar to those found naturally in amino acids allows the resulting molecules to combine the advantages of both DNA and antibodies: Their sequence is encoded by the order of nucleotides in DNA, while the attached chemical modifications greatly expand their ability to recognize biologically relevant targets and mimic interactions between proteins that are underlying many biological processes.The researchers demonstrated the potential of this new method using the human insulin receptor, a key protein that regulates blood sugar levels. They developed an aptamer that specifically binds to the receptor and elucidated the molecular basis of this interaction using cryo-electron microscopy. “We have shown that chemically introduced functional groups play a crucial role not only in target recognition and formation of the aptamer–protein complex, but also in stabilizing the DNA aptamer’s structure. Our findings provide new insights into how chemically modified nucleic acids can mimic key properties of proteins,” says Marek Ondruš.In the future, the technology could complement – or, in some applications, even replace – antibody-based diagnostic tools. Researchers are collaborating with <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="http://iocbtech.cz/">IOCB Tech</a> on its further development, as the company helps to bring discoveries from IOCB Prague into practical applications.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/UOCHB_Nova_technologie_inovuje_vyvoj_aptameru_syntetickych_alternativ_protilatek_9694c21671.jpg" alt="IOCHB Prague/Tomáš Belloň: New technology streamlines the development of aptamers, synthetic alternatives to antibodies: Dr. Marek Ondruš, first author of the study, and Prof. Michal Hocek, head of the Bioorganic and Medicinal Chemistry of Nucleic Acids research group at IOCB Prague." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_UOCHB_Nova_technologie_inovuje_vyvoj_aptameru_syntetickych_alternativ_protilatek_9694c21671.jpg 234w," sizes="100vw" width="2000" height="1335"><blockquote><h4>Original article</h4><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-026-73676-y#citeas">Expedient single-round selection of hyper-modified aptamer targeting insulin receptor from over-represented dually nucleobase-modified DNA libraries</a></h4>ablo Alberto Franco-Urquijo, Marek Ondruš, Jaroslav Kurfürst, Jana Škerlová, Irena Selicharová, Lucie Mužíková Čechová, Hana Šváchová, Alena Semerádtová, Anatolij Filimoněnko, Adéla Fejfarová, Jiří Homola, Tomáš Kouba &amp; Michal HocekNat. Commun., 2026<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-026-73676-y">https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-026-73676-y</a>&nbsp;<h6>licenced under <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/">CC-BY 4.0</a></h6></blockquote><h4>Abstract</h4>Discovery of functional nucleic acids from randomized libraries typically relies on multiple, time-consuming iterative rounds of in vitro selection with low success rate. Here, we present a single-round selection strategy for rapid screening of multiple over-represented nucleobase-modified DNA libraries and various selection conditions, capable of identifying high-affinity modified aptamers. Double partition followed by amplification of eluted sequences, NGS analysis and clustering provides fast identification of aptamer candidates. Screening of modified DNA libraries containing modified adenine and uracil nucleotides bearing hydrophobic aromatic phenyl and indole moieties results in development of an aptamer binding human insulin receptor with sub-nanomolar affinity and exquisite specificity. Cryo-EM structure reveals the importance of each aromatic modification, either in stabilizing the secondary structure or facilitating interactions with the protein surface. This approach addresses the main drawbacks of aptamer selection and has potential for high-throughput screening and accelerating the development of next-generation aptamers for diagnostics or therapeutics.</div>

New technology streamlines the development of aptamers, synthetic alternatives to antibodies

Clarity 10.2 expands instrument control capabilities with new control modules and updates the MS extension to help you work more efficiently.<h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/999">Clarity</a> 10.2 highlights</h4><ul><li>New and updated control modules</li><li>Improved MS data import and export</li><li>Obsolete hardware support ended</li></ul><h4>Instrument control modules</h4>Clarity 10.2 introduces new instrument control modules from Annuo (AS-3117, FAS-3823) and updated instrument controls form Sykam and Ecom.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Data_Apex_Instrument_control_modules_5de26782b0.jpg" alt="DataApex: Instrument control modules" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Data_Apex_Instrument_control_modules_5de26782b0.jpg 228w," sizes="100vw" width="380" height="260"><h4>MS data import/export improvements</h4>Clarity improves MS data exchange, especially for *.cdf files. MS instruments now support export and import of multiple spectral data and non-spectral signal data in the same CDF file. Import also better handles uniform sampling information, m/z Step values, scale factors, and file names with non-ASCII characters. Exporting individual chromatogram signals from MS instruments is now available through a separate Export Chromatogram dialog.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Data_Apex_MS_data_import_export_improvements_a7967a4020.jpg" alt="DataApex: MS data import-export improvements" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Data_Apex_MS_data_import_export_improvements_a7967a4020.jpg 228w," sizes="100vw" width="378" height="259"><h4>Obsolete hardware support terminated</h4>Due to changes in Windows driver security requirements, this update discontinues support for obsolete hardware, including INT7, INT9, U-PAD, U-PAD2, and CB20.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Data_Apex_Obsolete_hardware_support_terminated_24d9329419.jpg" alt="DataApex: Obsolete hardware support terminated" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Data_Apex_Obsolete_hardware_support_terminated_24d9329419.jpg 228w," sizes="100vw" width="378" height="259"><blockquote>Explore the complete list of all changes, fixes, and additions in version 10.2.👉<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.dataapex.com/version_history?product=1">See the complete changelog&nbsp;</a></blockquote>

Clarity Chromatography Software 10.2 released!

🎤Dr. Leigh Terry (University of Alabama)In this episode of Concentrating on Chromatography, we sit down with Dr. Leigh Terry from the University of Alabama to explore one of the biggest challenges in environmental analysis today: understanding—and accurately measuring—PFAS in water systems.While most regulatory methods focus on a small number of compounds like PFOA and PFOS, there may be thousands of PFAS compounds in the environment—and much of that burden goes undetected.<h4>In this episode, we cover:</h4><ul><li>Why PFAS are called “forever chemicals” (and why that label is evolving)</li><li>The limitations of targeted LC-MS/MS methods</li><li>What the fluorine mass balance problem reveals about PFAS destruction</li><li>How combustion ion chromatography (CIC) helps measure total organofluorine</li><li>Why “99.99% removal” doesn’t always mean what you think</li><li>Where PFAS actually end up in wastewater treatment systems</li><li>The most effective technologies for PFAS removal today</li><li>Why drinking water may only account for ~20% of total PFAS exposure</li></ul><h4>Key Insight:</h4>Even when analyzing dozens of PFAS compounds, researchers may only be capturing a small fraction of total organic fluorine—raising major questions about how we monitor and regulate these contaminants.<h3>Video Transcription</h3>In this episode of Concentrating on Chromatography, Dr. Leigh Terry discusses PFAS contamination in drinking water, the analytical challenges associated with measuring these compounds, current treatment technologies, and future directions for monitoring and regulation. The conversation highlights how analytical chemistry, environmental engineering, and public health intersect in addressing one of today's most discussed classes of emerging contaminants.<h4>Understanding PFAS and Their Significance</h4><h5>The University of Alabama Water Quality Research Center</h5>Dr. Leigh Terry is part of the University of Alabama's Center for Water Quality Research. The center operates an analytical laboratory focused on drinking water quality and the detection of contaminants at extremely low concentrations.The laboratory specializes in:<ul><li>Drinking water analysis</li><li>Organic contaminants</li><li>Emerging contaminants</li><li>PFAS monitoring</li><li>Water quality research</li></ul>Their work supports both research initiatives and practical solutions for water utilities and environmental agencies.<h4>Why Focus on PFAS?</h4>Although PFAS compounds have existed since the 1940s, public awareness has increased dramatically only in recent years.According to Dr. Terry, several factors contributed to the rapid growth of PFAS research:<ul><li>Increased media attention</li><li>New regulatory initiatives</li><li>Growing evidence of human exposure</li><li>Expanding research opportunities</li><li>Greater understanding of potential health risks</li></ul>PFAS are not new contaminants. Rather, society is only beginning to understand their prevalence in the environment and their potential impacts on human health.<h4>The Development of Standardized PFAS Methods</h4>One major advancement in PFAS analysis has been the development of standardized EPA methods.These methods allow:<ul><li>Consistent testing procedures</li><li>Comparable results between laboratories</li><li>Regulatory monitoring</li><li>Reliable data interpretation</li></ul>Dr. Terry notes that many of these standardized approaches began appearing around 2018–2019, providing a common framework for analytical laboratories and researchers.<h4>How Large Is the PFAS Universe?</h4>Many people are familiar with PFOA and PFOS, two of the most heavily studied PFAS compounds. However, these represent only a small fraction of the broader PFAS family.PFOA and PFOS are often referred to as:<ul><li>Legacy PFAS compounds</li><li>Original PFAS contaminants</li><li>Early commercial PFAS chemicals</li></ul>The challenge is that even minor modifications to molecular structure create entirely new PFAS compounds.Researchers estimate:<ul><li>Thousands of PFAS compounds exist</li><li>Some estimates exceed 10,000 compounds</li><li>Exact numbers depend on how PFAS are defined</li></ul>Scientific debate continues regarding classification and definition, making precise counting difficult.<h4>Why PFAS Are Called "Forever Chemicals"</h4>Dr. Terry notes that the phrase "forever chemicals" has become widely used, although she suggests the terminology could benefit from rebranding.PFAS persistence results from two key chemical properties.<h5>1. Amphiphilic Structure</h5>PFAS molecules contain:<ul><li>A water-loving (hydrophilic) head group</li><li>A water-repelling (hydrophobic) fluorinated tail</li></ul>This unusual combination allows PFAS to partition between:<ul><li>Water</li><li>Solids</li><li>Air-water interfaces</li><li>Foam</li></ul>Unlike many organic compounds, PFAS can interact effectively with multiple environmental phases.<h5>2. Extremely Strong Carbon–Fluorine Bonds</h5>The carbon–fluorine bond is among the strongest bonds in organic chemistry.As Dr. Terry explains:<ul><li>Large amounts of energy are required to break these bonds</li><li>Natural degradation processes are often ineffective</li><li>Destruction can require highly aggressive treatment conditions</li></ul>These properties make PFAS extremely persistent in both environmental systems and biological organisms.<h4>Toxicity, Regulations, and Environmental Behavior</h4><h5>Understanding PFAS Toxicity</h5>One of the biggest challenges in PFAS regulation is the incomplete understanding of toxicity.Dr. Terry explains that EPA regulations generally consider three factors:<ul><li>Presence in drinking water sources</li><li>Toxicity to humans</li><li>Availability of practical treatment options</li></ul>While some PFAS compounds are known to be harmful, many others remain insufficiently studied. Furthermore, PFAS often occur as mixtures rather than individual compounds.This creates important scientific questions:<ul><li>What is the toxicity of individual PFAS?</li><li>What is the toxicity of PFAS mixtures?</li><li>How should cumulative exposure be evaluated?</li></ul>These uncertainties continue to drive active research.<h4>What Happens to PFAS in Wastewater Treatment Plants?</h4>PFAS do not behave like many conventional contaminants.Rather than remaining fully dissolved in water, they often accumulate at interfaces such as:<ul><li>Water-solid interfaces</li><li>Water-air interfaces</li><li>Foam layers</li><li>Biological solids</li></ul>As a result:<ul><li>Some PFAS accumulate in biosolids</li><li>Some partition into foam</li><li>Some remain in treated effluent</li></ul>Their distribution depends on wastewater composition and treatment processes.<h4>Regulatory Monitoring and Targeted LC-MS Analysis</h4>Current EPA regulations focus on targeted analysis of specific PFAS compounds.Examples include:<ul><li>PFOA</li><li>PFOS</li></ul>Drinking water regulations currently establish maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for these compounds at extremely low concentrations.Advantages of targeted LC-MS analysis include:<ul><li>Clearly defined analytes</li><li>Established regulatory limits</li><li>High analytical sensitivity</li><li>Reliable quantitation</li></ul>However, limitations remain:<ul><li>Only a small subset of PFAS is measured</li><li>Many PFAS compounds remain undetected</li><li>Total PFAS burden may be underestimated</li></ul>As Dr. Terry notes, targeted analysis provides only part of the overall picture.<h4>The Fluorine Mass Balance Problem</h4>One of the most important concepts discussed in the interview is fluorine mass balance.When PFAS degrade, fluorinated fragments may remain in the environment.This creates a critical question:Are treatment technologies truly destroying PFAS, or merely transforming them into shorter-chain PFAS compounds?To answer this, researchers perform fluorine mass balance calculations using:<ul><li>Targeted PFAS analysis</li><li>Fluoride measurements</li><li>Total organic fluorine measurements</li></ul>A successful destruction process should ultimately convert PFAS into fluoride ions rather than simply producing smaller PFAS molecules.<h4>Advanced Analysis, Treatment Technologies, and Future Directions</h4><h5>Combining Targeted and Bulk Fluorine Measurements</h5>Dr. Terry's group complements targeted LC-MS analysis with measurements of total organic fluorine.Approaches include:<ul><li>Absorbable Organic Fluorine (AOF)</li><li>Extractable Organic Fluorine (EOF)</li><li>Combustion Ion Chromatography (CIC)</li></ul>In these methods:<ul><li>Organic fluorine is captured</li><li>Samples are combusted</li><li>Released fluoride is quantified</li></ul>This provides insight into total fluorinated content, although contributions may originate from sources beyond PFAS, including pharmaceuticals and consumer products.<h4>Surprising Findings from Combined Analysis</h4>One important finding from wastewater studies was that targeted PFAS measurements accounted for only a small fraction of total organic fluorine.Dr. Terry reports that:<ul><li>Approximately 4% of measured AOF could be explained by targeted PFAS compounds</li><li>The majority of organic fluorine remained unidentified</li></ul>This suggests that environmental fluorine chemistry is considerably more complex than currently represented by routine monitoring programs.<h4>Preventing PFAS Contamination in the Laboratory</h4>PFAS analysis requires exceptionally strict quality control.Dr. Terry's laboratory routinely:<ul><li>Tests every new batch of SPE cartridges</li><li>Tests carbon tubes before use</li><li>Uses DI water blanks</li><li>Verifies consumables labeled as PFAS-free</li><li>Collects field blanks</li><li>Monitors analytical blanks throughout workflows</li></ul>These practices help prevent contamination from laboratory materials and consumables, a common challenge in ultra-trace PFAS analysis.<h4>Current PFAS Treatment Technologies</h4>Three technologies currently dominate PFAS removal in drinking water treatment:<ul><li>Granular Activated Carbon (GAC)</li><li>Ion Exchange Resins</li><li>Reverse Osmosis (RO)</li></ul>Selection depends on:<ul><li>PFAS concentration</li><li>Water quality</li><li>Local operating conditions</li><li>Utility infrastructure</li></ul>Although many emerging technologies are being investigated, these remain the most widely implemented solutions.<h4>Membrane Filtration and Pretreatment</h4>Dr. Terry collaborates with colleagues studying membrane-based PFAS treatment.Her own work focuses on pretreatment through biological filtration.The strategy involves:<ul><li>Removing natural organic matter</li><li>Reducing membrane fouling</li><li>Improving membrane performance</li><li>Extending operational efficiency</li></ul>This integrated approach demonstrates how multiple treatment technologies can work together to improve PFAS removal.<h4>Regional Monitoring Projects</h4>The University of Alabama team participates in EPA-supported monitoring efforts along the Gulf Coast.Their observations indicate:<ul><li>PFAS rarely occur alone</li><li>Multiple PFAS compounds frequently co-occur</li><li>Contamination often originates from identifiable point sources</li></ul>Examples include:<ul><li>Industrial facilities</li><li>Manufacturing operations</li><li>Military installations</li><li>Carpet manufacturing facilities</li></ul>Source identification remains a critical component of environmental monitoring programs.<h4>Future Directions for PFAS Monitoring</h4>Looking ahead, Dr. Terry sees several opportunities for improvement.Desired advances include:<ul><li>In situ monitoring technologies</li><li>Portable detection systems</li><li>Reduced analytical complexity</li><li>Lower instrument costs</li><li>Less expensive consumables</li><li>Faster analysis workflows</li></ul>Current PFAS testing requires substantial expertise, specialized instrumentation, and rigorous quality control, making widespread implementation challenging.<h4>Dr. Terry's Perspective on Long-Term Solutions</h4>When asked what major PFAS challenge she would most like to solve, Dr. Terry offered a broader perspective.Rather than focusing solely on remediation, she emphasized prevention.Her view is that society should:<ul><li>Better evaluate chemical toxicity before commercialization</li><li>Assess risks before large-scale deployment</li><li>Reduce introduction of harmful compounds into the environment</li><li>Support utilities tasked with contaminant removal</li></ul>She notes that water utilities often bear the responsibility of removing contaminants they did not create, highlighting the need for broader societal and regulatory support.<h4>Final Thoughts</h4>Dr. Terry encourages consumers to:<ul><li>Learn where their drinking water originates</li><li>Read annual water quality reports</li><li>Stay informed about local water quality</li><li>Consider appropriate home filtration where needed</li></ul>At the same time, she emphasizes confidence in municipal water systems and the importance of continued investment in water quality research, monitoring, and treatment technologies.<h4>Conclusion</h4>PFAS remain one of the most complex challenges in environmental chemistry and water treatment. Through advanced analytical methods such as LC-MS/MS, combustion ion chromatography, fluorine mass balance approaches, and large-scale monitoring programs, researchers like Dr. Leigh Terry are helping improve our understanding of these persistent contaminants.The interview highlights that solving the PFAS challenge will require a combination of better analytical tools, improved treatment technologies, stronger regulatory frameworks, and a greater emphasis on prevention before contaminants enter the environment.<blockquote>This text has been automatically transcribed from a video presentation using AI technology. It may contain inaccuracies and is not guaranteed to be 100% correct.</blockquote><blockquote><h4>Concentrating on Chromatography Podcast</h4>Dive into the frontiers of chromatography, mass spectrometry, and sample preparation with host David Oliva. Each episode features candid conversations with leading researchers, industry innovators, and passionate scientists who are shaping the future of analytical chemistry. From decoding PFAS detection challenges to exploring the latest in AI-assisted liquid chromatography, this show uncovers practical workflows, sustainability breakthroughs, and the real-world impact of separation science. Whether you’re a chromatographer, lab professional, or researcher you'll discover inspiring content!You can find Concentrating on Chromatography Podcast in podcast apps:<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1wZg67rCjoGju4yhqxI3tL">Spotify</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://podcasts.apple.com/tz/podcast/concentrating-on-chromatography/id1788429185">Apple podcast</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://podscan.fm/podcasts/concentrating-on-chromatography">podscan</a></li></ul>and on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/@ChromatographyTalk/videos">YouTube channel</a></blockquote>

PFAS in Water: Why We’re Missing 96% of the Problem

Article

Product

Video

Scientists

Water

Interview

Science and research

Software

Since 1991 DataApex develops and manufactures chromatography data stations. DataApex is constantly striving to provide users with efficient and up-to-date tools for chromatography data processing.

DataApex

The Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IOCB Prague) is a leading scientific institution in the Czech Republic, recognized internationally. Its primary mission is basic research in the fields of chemical biology and medicinal chemistry, organic and material oriented chemistry, chemistry of natural compounds, biochemistry and molecular biology, physical chemistry, theoretical chemistry, and analytical chemistry. 

Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences

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

Agilent Technologies

Phenomenex

Thermo Fisher Scientific

SCIEX

Waters Corporation

<h4>European Free Educational Webinar Series</h4>
Let&#39;s go back to the basics of Chromatography, Mass Spectrometry, Data Analysis and Trouble-shooting: understanding the importance of the basics will enable you to be more effective in your daily laboratory life.
<h4>EPISODE 4</h4>
Basics of Liquid Chromatography
What will you learn?
<ul>
<li>LC System Components: Pumps and Injectors</li>
<li>LC Detectors: Which one is right for your Application?</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Prezenter: Andrea Gheduzzi (Principal LC Market Dev. Manager, EMEA, Waters Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Andrea has spent more than 30 years in the chromatography field. Across his career he had various roles, service engineer, chromatography lab position, and technical application support manager. He has mainly been dealing with pharma accounts, also supporting LC method development activities using DoE/QbD approaches. In his role as Pharma Business Development Manager at Waters he has further expanded his expertise in AQbD and related applications.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Prezenter: Arjan Timmerman (Pharma Market Development Manager EMEA, Waters Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Arjan Timmerman is a market development manager at Waters working in EMEA. Prior to joining Waters in 2014 he worked for 17 years as an Analytical Scientist in the Small Molecule Pharmaceutical industry in various Chemical and Pharmaceutical late-stage development labs.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Since 2023 he became QA/QC market development manager for EMEA working in a dedicated team and focuses on Pharmaceutical workflows, AQbD, Impurities, LC Chromatography and Compliance.
</blockquote>
<h4>What&#39;s next?</h4>
Full Webinar Series Episodes List is available <a href="https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/4551012/F69479929A905500D8B21508527807E5/5385652">here</a>
Back to Basics - Sample Preparation: Theory and Overview
<ul>
<li>Tuesday, May 07, 2024, 11:00 AM CEST</li>
</ul>
Back to Basics - Sample Preparation: Tips &amp; Tricks to make it simple
<ul>
<li>Wednesday, June 05, 2024, 11:00 AM CEST</li>
</ul>
Back to Basics - Theory of Liquid Chromatography
<ul>
<li>Wednesday, July 03, 2024, 11:00 AM CEST</li>
</ul>
Back to Basics - Basics of Liquid Chromatography
<ul>
<li>Tuesday, September 10, 2024, 11:00 AM CEST</li>
</ul>
Back to Basics - Analytical Method Development
<ul>
<li>Wednesday, October 02, 2024, 11:00 AM CEST</li>
</ul>
Back to Basics - The importance of Compliance
<ul>
<li>Tuesday, October 22, 2024, 11:00 AM CEST</li>
</ul>
Back to Basics - Introduction to Mass Spectrometry
<ul>
<li>Wednesday, November 13, 2024, 11:00 AM CET</li>
</ul>
Back to Basics - Troubleshooting your LC and MS Systems
<ul>
<li>Tuesday, December 10, 2024, 11:00 AM CET</li>
</ul>
Not sure to be able to attend live sessions?
Register today and watch the webinars on-demand

Waters Corporation: Back to Bacisc Free Educational Webinar Serries

Basics of Liquid Chromatography

Intro to LC system components: pumps, injectors, and detectors.

<h4>SCIEX OS software summer school</h4>
Master the essentials of SCIEX OS software with our live webinars this summer
Join us for our summer school series dedicated to enhancing your proficiency with SCIEX OS software. Over the course of next months, we offer a series of concise, 30-minute webinars designed to fit into your schedule.
Agenda:
<ul>
<li>23 July, 11:00 a.m. CET – Hardware configuration and instrument verification</li>
<li>6 Aug, 11:00 a.m. CET – Compound optimization</li>
<li>20 Aug, 11:00 a.m. CET – Data processing: quantitation</li>
<li>2 September, 11:00 a.m. CET – Data processing: screening</li>
</ul>

SCIEX OS software summer school - Data processing: quantitation

Join us for our summer school series dedicated to enhancing your proficiency with SCIEX OS software.

Data processing: quantitation

SCIEX OS software summer school - Data processing: screening

Data processing: screening

Summary
Comming soon...
<blockquote>
Presenter: Jennifer Field (Professor, Oregon State University)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Field has a Ph.D. in geochemistry from the Colorado School of Mines. Her current research focuses on the development and application of quantitative analytical methods for organic micropollutants and their transformation products in natural and engineered systems with a focus on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). She is considered a pioneer in the area of PFAS occurrence and behavior and has focused on groundwater contaminated by fire-fighting foams and PFAS in municipal wastewater treatment systems and in municipal landfills. Current work focuses on the development of PFAS fingerprinting sources, biomimetic chromatography of PFAS, and PFAS on specialized textiles, fluoropolymers and other materials. She served as an Executive and Associate Editor for Environmental Science and Technology and received the Agilent Thought Leader Award in 2023.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Norm Farmer (PFAS Program Director, SGS North America)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Norm Farmer is the PFAS Program Director for SGS North America. Technical Director for SGS US Environmental Laboratories. He received his BS in Chemical Oceanography from the Florida Institute of Technology. He has 35 years of commercial environmental laboratory experience and 27 years supporting various Department of Defense environmental programs. He has spent the last 10 years working on PFAS analysis and data review.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Tarun Anumol, PhD (Director, Global Environment Market, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Tarun Anumol is the Director for Global Environment Market at for Agilent Technologies. Previously, he was an LC-MS applications scientist at Agilent, focused on developing analytical methods for trace contaminants on LC-MS/MS and LC-Q/TOF in food and environmental matrices. Tarun has a strong history of working in the environmental &amp; food testing industry, with a background in technical and applied science, with over 30 peer-reviewed journal publications in this area.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Prior to joining Agilent, Tarun graduated with a Ph.D. in Chemical &amp; Environmental Engineering from the University of Arizona with a focus on emerging contaminant attenuation including PPCPs, PFAS and DBPs in water reuse schemes.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Maya Murshak (CEO and Technical Director, Merit Laboratories)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Maya is the CEO and Technical Director for Merit Laboratories. She currently oversees all of the laboratory functions. Maya continues to work closely with laboratory certification, accreditation, and project coordination. She has over 37 years of practical laboratory experience based on her extensive analytical work with both chromatography and mass spec systems. Maya is a Chemical Engineer, holding both B.S. and M.S. degrees from Michigan State University. Go Green!
</blockquote>

Agilent: Panel Discussion: The Present & Future of PFAS analysis – will we ever fully characterize PFAS?

Panel Discussion: The Present & Future of PFAS analysis – will we ever fully characterize PFAS?

The Present & Future of PFAS analysis

Event Overview:
<ul>
<li>Principle of Chirality
</li>
<li>Chiral Stationary Phases (CSP)
</li>
<li>Polysaccharide CSPs and their Chiral Retention Mechanisms
</li>
<li>Chiral Method Development: Separation Modes and Screening Protocol
</li>
<li>SFC Chiral Method Development
</li>
<li>Chiral Method Optimization: Case Study
</li>
</ul>
Who Should Attend:
<ul>
<li>Any LC users who would like to understand how chiral separations work and how to apply the principles of chiral theory in developing an analytical method for separation of enantiomers.
</li>
<li>Any analyst who wishes to learn the basics of chiral theory.
</li>
<li>Any academic or pharmaceutical scientists who need to develop a method for separation and characterization of chiral compounds.
</li>
</ul>
Key Learning Points:
<ul>
<li>Learn what chiral compounds are and how they are separated using LC and what a chiral stationary phase (CSP) is and the different types there are
</li>
<li>Understand the three critical components of Polysaccharide CSPs and review the difference between coated and immobilized CSPs and how they are applied in different analytical contexts
</li>
<li>Learn how to approach a chiral screen using different separation modes.
</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Laura K Ward (Technical Specialist, Phenomenex)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Laura Ward is a Technical Specialist for the Asia-Pacific region with Phenomenex, located in New Zealand. She completed an Honours thesis in the field of Geochemistry at the University of Sydney, Australia where she discovered a love for Analytical Chemistry. Following her academic pursuits, Laura joined Phenomenex Australia as a Technical Sales Consultant where she supported various industries and laboratories. After 5 years and a move to New Zealand, she has joined the Phenomenex Technical Team where she supports scientists globally with their method development, troubleshooting and application support. In her spare time Laura enjoys being outdoors in the New Zealand countryside and cooking from scratch, most recently venturing into cheesemaking!
</blockquote>

Phenomenex: LC Chiral Theory and Method Development

LC Chiral Theory and Method Development

Learn what chiral compounds are and how they are separated using LC and what a chiral stationary phase (CSP) is and the different types there are.

Are you tired of dealing with inconsistent LC results? Are you looking to extend the life of your LC columns and improve lab efficiency?
Our upcoming webinar, LC Columns Tips &amp; Tricks, is designed to help you get the most out of your LC columns.
Our expert will share invaluable insights on:
<ul>
<li>Understanding LC column chemistry to optimize separations
</li>
<li>Proper handling of new LC columns for maximum lifespan
</li>
<li>Proven techniques to extend column life and reduce downtime
</li>
<li>Effective column maintenance and troubleshooting strategies
</li>
</ul>
This live webinar is an excellent opportunity to deepen your knowledge, improve your lab efficiency, and reduce operational costs. Whether you&#39;re a seasoned pro or just getting started, you&#39;ll walk away with practical knowledge to elevate your column performance and lifetime. Adham Ahmed will be presenting and answering your questions live.
Who Should Attend?
<ul>
<li>Laboratory Analysts and Scientists who are involved in small molecule pharmaceutical analysis
</li>
<li>Chromatographers seeking to optimize LC column performance
</li>
<li>Quality control professionals aiming to improve data reliability and reproducibility
</li>
<li>Research and development scientists working on method development and validation
</li>
<li>Lab Managers: Leaders looking to improve operational efficiency and extend the lifespan of lab equipment.
</li>
<li>Anyone involved in LC column selection, maintenance, and troubleshooting
</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Adham Ahmed (Global Product Manager, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Adham Ahmed has 15+ years of experience in particle development and functionality for chromatographic application. Presently, he is the Global Product Manager of the Hypersil BDS and ODS and other columns within the Thermo Fisher Scientific Portfolio. His experience includes working in R&amp;D, application specialist and Product management, with a focus on understanding customer’s challenges and laboratory needs.
</blockquote>

Thermo Scientific: LC Columns Tips & Tricks

LC Columns Tips & Tricks

Our upcoming webinar, LC Columns Tips & Tricks, is designed to help you get the most out of your LC columns.

<div class="summary-section section">This webinar will introduce liquid chromatography and provide a comprehensive overview of an HPLC system, helping new users understand the purpose of each component. It will also explore some common chromatographic terms, what they mean to the separation, and how understanding these terms can help analysts make better decisions. Finally, we will discuss the attributes of chromatographic columns and how they impact the separation process.<h5>Key Learnings:</h5>1. HPLC system overview2. Key chromatographic terms3. Chromatography overview4. Understanding the chromatographic column&nbsp;<div style="clear:both;">Who should attend: Analysts who are brand new to HPLC or those who need a strong understanding of the principal concepts of HPLC.</div><div style="clear:both;">&nbsp;</div><blockquote><div>Presenter: Maureen DeLoffi (Senior Product Manager, Waters Corporation)</div><div> Maureen DeLoffi is a Senior Product Manager at Waters Corporation, where she manages the small molecule portfolio of Analytical HPLC columns. Prior to her Product Manager role, she spent over 12 years as a scientist in the Column Technology Development Lab at Waters. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of New Hampshire.</div></blockquote></div>

Waters Corporation: Fundamentals of HPLC Separations for Small Molecule Analyses

Fundamentals of HPLC Separations for Small Molecule Analyses

This webinar will introduce liquid chromatography and provide a comprehensive overview of an HPLC system.

We start the LC Beginner webinar series with an overview of basic terms relevant to liquid chromatography.&nbsp;<blockquote>Presenter: Laura Montis (Product Specialist Liquid Phase Separations, Agilent)Laura began her carrier in the Liquid Chromatography over 15 years ago. After experiencing the pharmaceutical world in an analytical development lab, she went on to work with preparative chromatography and gained experience with Supercritical Fluid Chromatography prior to moving onto special HPLC applications, like 2DLC and Online LC.Throughout her career, Laura has held several positions, including application chemist, trainer, sales specialist, and marketing business development. She is currently Product Specialist for liquid phase chromatography systems within the International Distributor Organization in EMEA at Agilent Technologies.Laura studied analytical chemistry and holds a master’s degree from University of Lyon in France.</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: HPLC Beginner Webinar Series

Liquid Chromatography Fundamentals

We start the LC Beginner webinar series with an overview of basic terms relevant to liquid chromatography. 

<div class="summary-section section"><section class="section-padding"><div class="page-width"><div class="page-padding"><ul><li>Reversed phase or normal phase?</li><li>Fully porous, partially porous, end capping?</li></ul>In this webinar we will cover different stationary phases (RP and NP) and the selection of the particle.<blockquote>Presenter: Cecilia Mazza (Product Specialist, EMEA IDO - Chemistries &amp; Suppliers, Agilent)With more than 20 years of professional experience, Cecilia is presently the Product Specialist for columns and supplies at Agilent. Supporting distributors and laboratory users in the analysis and purification of small and large molecules, for a wide range of LC and GC applications as well as sample preparation.Cecilia holds a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in US.</blockquote></div></div></section></div>

Stationary Phases in HPLC - Part I

In this webinar we will cover different stationary phases (RP and NP) and the selection of the particle.

<h4>The Waters 2024 Virtual Summer School - An Educational Journey to Master Food &amp; Environmental Analysis</h4>Unlock the full potential of LC-MS techniques with our immersive and educational sessions at the Waters Virtual F&amp;E Late Summer School 2024. From September 24th to 26th, engage with leading experts and discover cutting-edge methods for environmental and food analysis.<h5>Why attend?</h5><ul><li>Comprehensive Learning: Dive deep into advanced LC-MS techniques and gain practical knowledge to enhance your laboratory's analytical capabilities.</li><li>Expert Insights: Learn from industry leaders and gain firsthand experience through detailed modules on chromatography, mass spectrometry, and sample preparation.</li><li>Regulatory Compliance: Stay ahead with the latest insights on EU regulations for PFAS analysis in food and water, ensuring your lab meets stringent standards.</li></ul><h3>Episode #1: Chromatography - UPLC | F&amp;E Summer School - Day 1 - Module 1</h3>This section will provide an overview of the Waters reference material available to customer to help plan the best columns and chromatographic conditions for their LC-MS methods, using common environmental contaminants as an example. We highlight how to create LC-MS methods using the Acquisition Method Editor (AME) application within waters_connect™. Finally, this section will cover some of the most troubleshooting issues: contaminated blank peaks, poor peak shape, etc, and how to address them.<h5>What you'll learn:</h5><ul><li>Important factors for developing a UPLC method - considering analyte solubility, pKa and partitioning coefficient (Kow)</li><li>Selecting the most appropriate UPLC column for your analytes</li><li>Setting up LC-MS methods in the waters_connectTM console</li><li>Troubleshooting common contamination issues</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Nicole Baumgarten (Sr Sales Applications Chemist, Waters Corporation)Nicole is part of the Customer Success team at Waters with a focus on LC-MS/MS application and sales support. She works in this role for more than 9 years and gained experience in previous roles as analyst for biopharmaceuticals in process controls at Boehringer Ingelheim and research Assistent at Zentrum für Humangenetik und Laboratoriumsmedizin in Munich after finishing a Master of Chemical engineering at Hochschule Fresenius, Idstein.Presenter: Caroline Davis (Sr Sales Applications Chemist, Waters Corporation)</blockquote>

Waters Corporation: The Waters 2024 Virtual Summer School

Chromatography - UPLC

An overview of the Waters reference material available to customer to help plan the best columns and chromatographic conditions for their LC-MS methods.

LCMS webinars focusing on Academy/Principles - page 15