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

🎤Alex BrodyIn this episode of Concentrating on Chromatography, we sit down with Alex Brody, an organic chemist at Aqua America, to discuss the rigorous analytical methods required for regulated drinking water testing.Alex walks us through the multi-step PFAS detection process using EPA Method 537.1, including extraction, nitrogen blowdown concentration, and LC-MS analysis. He explains why sample preparation and quality control are critical for achieving trace-level detection—and why these methods can't be rushed or simplified, even with new technologies available.We also explore taste and odor investigations, disinfection byproducts, and volatile organic compounds, plus the surprising reality of why regulated labs move slowly when adopting new instrumentation. You'll learn about the quality control checkpoints, peer review processes, and the misconceptions surrounding analytical turnaround times in compliance labs.<h5>Topics Covered:</h5><ul><li>Role of organic chemistry in regulated drinking water labs</li><li>EPA compliance requirements and regulatory bodies (EPA, PA-DEP)</li><li>PFAS detection using Method 537.1 and LC-MS</li><li>The critical importance of nitrogen blowdown sample concentration</li><li>Taste and odor analysis: MIB, Geosmin, and unknown compound identification</li><li>Why regulated methods evolve slowly (validation timelines, approval processes)</li><li>Quality control procedures: calibration checks, matrix spikes, surrogate standards, internal standards</li><li>Automated sample preparation and lab efficiency</li><li>Future PFAS regulations and Method 533 expansion</li></ul><h5>Ideal For:</h5><ul><li>Analytical chemists and environmental lab professionals</li><li>Water utilities and compliance officers</li><li>Chromatography practitioners interested in regulated workflows</li><li>Anyone curious about how drinking water safety is ensured</li></ul><h2>Video Transcription</h2><h3>Ensuring Safe Drinking Water Through Advanced Analytical Chemistry</h3><h4>Insights from a Regulated Water Testing Laboratory</h4>Analytical laboratories responsible for regulated drinking water testing operate under strict compliance frameworks to ensure the delivery of safe and reliable water supplies. In this interview, Alex, an organic chemist at Aqua America, outlines the scope of analytical work conducted in a modern water quality laboratory. The team primarily focuses on the determination of taste- and odor-causing compounds, disinfection byproducts, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These analyses rely heavily on GC-MS and LC-MS instrumentation, supported by rigorous maintenance programs to ensure continuous operational performance and data reliability.<h4>Regulatory Compliance and Quality Control in Drinking Water Analysis</h4>Operating as a regulated drinking water laboratory requires adherence to stringent requirements established by agencies such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and state-level regulatory bodies. Compliance is driven by extensive quality control protocols integrated into every analytical batch. Typical workflows include calibration verification, matrix spike recovery assessments, internal standard monitoring, and surrogate performance checks. Notably, analytical batches are often limited in sample number to accommodate a substantial proportion of quality control samples, reflecting the critical importance of data defensibility in regulatory reporting.One common misconception is the perceived speed at which results can be delivered. In reality, comprehensive sample preparation, including extraction procedures and validation steps, can extend turnaround times to a full working day or longer. Additionally, validated regulatory workflows impose limitations on the rapid adoption of new analytical technologies, as method modifications must undergo formal evaluation and approval before implementation.<h4>Analytical Strategies for Taste and Odor Investigations</h4>Taste and odor events represent a significant operational challenge for water utilities. Standard targeted methods are routinely applied for compounds such as 2-methylisoborneol (MIB) and geosmin, which are commonly associated with earthy or musty sensory characteristics. When targeted analysis does not reveal the source, laboratories employ broad-scan GC-MS screening combined with spectral library interpretation to identify potential causative compounds. In some cases, sensory evaluation panels complement instrumental analysis, providing preliminary insight into potential treatment-related or environmental influences affecting water quality.<h4>PFAS Monitoring: Methodological Complexity and Trace-Level Sensitivity</h4>PFAS determination represents a rapidly evolving priority in drinking water monitoring. The laboratory currently applies EPA Method 537.1, with efforts underway to expand capabilities through certification for Method 533, thereby broadening analyte coverage. Analytical workflows typically involve solid-phase extraction followed by solvent evaporation using nitrogen-assisted blow-down techniques to achieve the trace-level sensitivity required for regulatory compliance. This concentration step is essential because PFAS compounds remain non-volatile under controlled evaporation conditions, enabling enhanced detection performance upon reconstitution and LC-MS analysis.<h4>Future Directions in Drinking Water Analytics</h4>Looking ahead, the primary technological driver in regulated water analysis is the demand for increasingly lower detection limits and expanded compound coverage. While regulatory frameworks can slow methodological innovation, laboratories continue to pursue efficiency improvements, such as automated sample preparation systems and optimized analytical workflows. These advances support the growing need to process high sample volumes while maintaining the stringent data quality standards required for public health protection.Ultimately, the work performed in regulated drinking water laboratories represents a critical intersection of analytical chemistry, environmental monitoring, and public safety. Continuous methodological refinement, coupled with advances in mass spectrometry and sample preparation technologies, will play a central role in addressing emerging contaminants and ensuring long-term water quality assurance.<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>

Regulated Drinking Water Testing: PFAS Detection, Sample Prep & Real Lab Insights

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

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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.

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<h3>Solving Problems That Matter - a Waters webinar series featuring USP speakers</h3><h4>Episode 9: Nitrosamines</h4>When present in pharmaceutical products, nitrosamine impurities - a probable carcinogen - can disrupt drug supply chains and lead to shortages resulting from product recalls and withdrawals.Join our panelists Naiffer Romero from the USP and Marian Twohig from Waters Corporation as they address analytical challenges in the detection and control of nitrosamines and Nitrosamine Drug-Substance Related Impurities (NDSRIs).Key learning objectives:<ul><li>Understand the current analytical challenges associated with the detection and control of nitrosamine impurities. Explore fit-for-purpose and compliant-ready LC-MS-MS solutions for the cGMP laboratory.</li></ul>Who should attend:<ul><li>Pharmaceutical scientists involved with the detection and control of nitrosamines impurities</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Naiffer Romero, MSc, MPH (Principal Scientist - Scientific Affairs, US Pharmacopeia)</blockquote><blockquote>Naiffer has more than 20 years of pharmaceutical industry experience. In his 13+ years tenure with USP, he has served several roles: Lead scientist in the dosage form performance laboratory, reference standard development team, Manager in charge of LATAM Compendial engagement and education, responsible for stakeholders and national regulatory bodies engagement. Naiffer is also a certified USP Education instructor. Most recently, Naiffer joined USP's Scientific Affairs performance cell, where he leads scientific outreach and engagement for LATAM &amp; U.S. on key national health priority topics. His combined pharmaceutical expertise includes Analytical Development, salt and polymorph selection, Development of dissolution methods, IVIVC modeling, and impurity analytical strategy. Naiffer also serves as a member of USP's Nitrosamine Steering Committee and community host to 'Nitrosamine Exchange,' a knowledge community in All-things Nitrosamine. Naiffer also liaises technical discussion on pharmacopeial collaboration, including international meetings of World Pharmacopeias (part of WHO).</blockquote><blockquote>Presenter: Marian Twohig, Ph.D. (Consultant Scientist, Waters Corporation)</blockquote><blockquote>Marian has over 20 years of experience supporting quantitative and qualitative applications in the pharmaceutical, food and environmental and materials science industries. She works as a Consultant Scientist for Waters Corporation where she has previously held several Senior Scientist positions. Currently, the focus of Marian’s work is in the development of quantitative analytical methods to meet the needs of the pharmaceutical industry. She is particularly interested in chromatographic separations and the application of combining low- and high-resolution mass spectral data with other chemical information for identification of unknown chemical entities. Marian holds a Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from Munster Technological University, Cork, Ireland.</blockquote><blockquote>Moderator: Isabelle Vu Trieu (Pharmaceutical Market Development Manager, Americas, Waters Corporation)</blockquote><blockquote>Isabelle is a business development professional dedicated to delivering benefits to analytical scientists in the life sciences industry. With over 20 years of experience in providing chromatography and mass spectrometry solutions, Isabelle is particularly interested in helping pharmaceutical scientists achieve the data quality and integrity needed to drive decisions for drug quality, safety and efficacy. Isabelle joined Waters in 2009 and currently manages the development of the pharmaceutical market in the Americas. She holds Masters’ degrees in Chemistry from Columbia University and the University Claude Bernard in Lyon, France as well as a Chemical Engineering degree from Ecole Supérieure de Chimie Physique Electronique in Lyon, France.</blockquote>

Waters Corporation: Solving Problems That Matter - a Waters webinar series featuring USP speakers

Nitrosamines

This webinar will address analytical challenges in the detection and control of nitrosamines and Nitrosamine Drug-Substance Related Impurities (NDSRIs).

<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 5</h4>
Analytical Method Development
What will you learn?
<ul>
<li>How to choose the right Analytical Column Kit</li>
<li>Select the critical Parameters for your Analytical Methods</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: Tobias Langrock (Senior Application Specialist Chemistry Europe, Waters)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
During his time as a PhD student Tobias discovered his passion for LC and LC-MS/MS and has not lost it since. Joining Waters in 2008 was the perfect opportunity to expand his understanding and expertise in chromatography and mass spectrometry. Since then, he has been involved with a very wide range of instruments and applications, whether small or large molecules, reversed phase LC, IEX or SEC, SFC or GPC. His focus is always on the customers and their daily chromatographic challenges.
</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

Analytical Method Development

How to select analytical column kit and the critical parameters for your method.

Analytical Method Development (HPLC, LC/MS, columns)

Hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography (HILIC) and hydrophobic interaction chromatography (HIC) separations are becoming more common for a variety of applications. We see HIC being a primary method being used for antibody-drug-conjugate (ADCs) analyses and equally suitable for the analysis of protein modifications. The ability to retain neutral and ionizable polar species makes HILIC particularly popular for drug development and metabolomics studies.
This webinar will help new HILIC and HIC chromatographers avoid the common mistakes of HILIC and HIC separations by identifying the important method parameters involved. We’ll discuss how the separation works, show detailed application examples, and provide tip and tricks for robust method development.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Mohit Patel (Application Engineer, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Mohit Patel is part of the CSD Online AE Team. His primary focus is to support SMLC, Bio-Columns, and consumables.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Before joining Agilent, Mohit was an Assistant Professor of Chemistry at Temple University. Mohit developed his passion for science through his experiences as a faculty researcher and a mentor. Mohit actively taught, developed curriculum, and served as senior personnel, with a leadership position, on funded grants, mentored research projects, and co-coordinator of STEAM related outreach services.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Mohit has earned a Doctorate degree in Chemistry from Temple University in 2016.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Why Use HILIC or HIC Chromatography: Theory and Method Development Strategies

Why Use HILIC or HIC Chromatography: Theory and Method Development Strategies

This webinar will help new HILIC and HIC chromatographers avoid the common mistakes of HILIC and HIC separations.

HILIC or HIC: Theory and Method Development Strategies

A truly universal chromatographic detector remains one of the most sought-after tools by analytical scientists.
In this interactive webinar, Professor James Grinias from Rowan University will share insights into his laboratory’s pioneering work with charged aerosol detection (CAD).
This session will delve into how CAD can be integrated into chromatographic workflows and highlight essential factors for achieving optimal performance, which might not be addressed with other detection methods. Professor Grinias will also explore practical applications, focusing on analyzing non-chromophoric species in the pharmaceutical industry.
The webinar will be conducted in a relaxed coffee chat format, with Kathrine Lovejoy joining Professor Grinias to facilitate the discussion. Join us for this engaging and informal session to learn about cutting-edge techniques and enhance your analytical skills.
Learning points:
<ul>
<li>Integration of CAD: How to incorporate Charged Aerosol Detection into chromatographic workflows.
</li>
<li>CAD Considerations: Key factors for optimal performance unique to CAD.
</li>
<li>Pharmaceutical Applications: Analyzing non-chromophoric species in the pharmaceutical industry.
</li>
</ul>
Who should attend?
<ul>
<li>Analytical Scientists who are interested in advanced detection methods for chromatography
</li>
<li>Pharmaceutical Professionals who focus on analyzing non-chromophoric species
</li>
<li>Researchers and Technicians seeking to enhance their chromatographic techniques
</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: James Grinias (Professor, Department of Chemistry &amp; Biochemistry, Rowan University)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Katherine Lovejoy (Application Chemist, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</blockquote>

Thermo Scientific: Integrating charged aerosol detection in chromatographic workflows

Integrating charged aerosol detection in chromatographic workflows

We will share insights into Professor James Grinias laboratory’s pioneering work with charged aerosol detection (CAD).

Integrating charged aerosol detection in chromatographic

This webinar will give an overview of the different LC modules and how they work.<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

LC Instrument Hardware

This webinar will give an overview of the different LC modules and how they work.

In liquid chromatography, various detectors can be used. In this seminar we will take a closer look at UV, fluorescence, refractive index and ELSD detection.&nbsp;<blockquote>Presenter: Ansuman Mahato (Product Specialist Liquid Phase Separations, Agilent Technologies)Ansuman has been a Product Specialist at Agilent Technologies for 14 years, working with the pharmaceuticals, biopharmaceuticals, food, and chemicals industries. Based in Waldbronn, Germany, the manufacturing site for Agilent’s chromatography solutions, he helps make labs more efficient and compliant and has rich experience with techniques like HPLC, UHPLC, GPC/SEC, Prep LC, and 2D-LC.Ansuman is also skilled in polymer analysis using advanced tools like viscometry and MALS. He has published many papers in international journals and is a popular speaker for his practical insights and innovative solutions.</blockquote>

HPLC Detectors

In liquid chromatography, various detectors can be used. In this seminar we will take a closer look at UV, fluorescence, refractive index and ELSD detection.

<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 #10: PFAS Analysis in Drinking, Ground, and Surface Water | F&amp;E Summer School - Day 3 - Module 2</h3>Analysis of PFAS is an essential part of water testing programs and becoming a regular requirement for monitoring in environment and food sources. As regulations, like the EU Drinking Water Directive, the EU Groundwater Directive, and the EU Water Framework Directive, have been updated or are in the process for an update, the requirements for method sensitivity have become more demanding. Whilst concentration levels go down, direct injection methods are increasingly desirable to laboratories carrying out routine analysis of PFAS where analyte preconcentration is not deemed necessary or required. They have a simple sample preparation method, which not only reduces the opportunity for contamination and error but speeds up analysis time and the requirements for large volumes of samples. This can provide labs with a higher throughput of samples and lower analysis costs.Dorrit Griesshaber from the Office for Environment and Energy in Basel (SZ) and Jenny Davies from Element Materials Technology in Flinshire (UK) will give insights how the analysis of PFAS in environmental samples works in routine testing labs.<h5>What you'll learn:</h5><ul><li>How to reach lowest levels of PFAS and work according to EU regulation using Xevo TQ Absolute in combination with UniSpray ion source,</li><li>LC method development on Premier LC and system modification for direct injection with large volume,</li><li>Tips &amp; tricks from the demo lab to avoid PFAS contamination, implement new analytes, speed up data processing, and keep best performance and</li><li>A special PFAS training to help you implement the method in the lab.</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter:&nbsp;Dr. Sara Stead (Consulting Scientist, Food and Environmental, Scientific Operations, Waters Corporation)Presenter:&nbsp;Aron Dekkers (Sales Application Chemist, Waters Corporation)Aron is part of the Customer Success team at Waters BeNeLux with a focus on Food &amp; Environmental LC-MS/MS applications and sales support. His special interest areas are PFAs and pesticides. He works in this role for more than 4 years. Aron finished his B.S. in Chemistry at Fontys Eindhoven (NL).Presenter:&nbsp;Dorrit Griesshaber (Amt für Umwelt und Energy (AUE))Presenter:&nbsp;Jenny Davies (Technical Director, Element Materials Technology)</blockquote>

Waters Corporation: The Waters 2024 Virtual Summer School

PFAS Analysis in Drinking, Ground, and Surface Water

We will give insights how the analysis of PFAS in environmental samples works in routine testing labs. 

Chromatography is a pivotal analytical technique in pharmaceutical industry, essential for the separation, identification, and quantification of components in complex mixtures. USP Chapter 621 provides comprehensive guidelines on chromatographic methods, ensuring consistency, reliability, and accuracy across laboratories.This webinar covers the principles of USP Chapter 621, highlighting recent revisions. Attendees will gain insights into the permissible adjustments in chromatographic parameters and system suitability requirements. Case studies will be demonstrated to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.To be successful in implementing USP Chapter 621, we show you the practicality of using Agilent recommended LC supplies and explore how they can enhance laboratory efficiency.<h5>Key learnings:</h5><ul><li>A clear understanding of recent changes to USP Chapter 621 that impact your work.</li><li>Practical guidance on how to adjust chromatographic parameters without losing accuracy.</li><li>Case studies that connect theory to practice, ensuring you’re set for regulatory compliance.</li><li>Simple ways to improve lab efficiency using tools and supplies that support you, not complicate your process.</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Mr. Andrea Leonardi (Product Specialist, Chemistries &amp; Supplies, Agilent Technologies)Andrea holds a master's degree in Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology form Universita’ degli Studi di Camerino in Central Italy. Since completing his studies, he has held various laboratory and research roles with pharmaceutical companies in Italy and Switzerland, before coming to Singapore to join Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases. This latest job involved characterizing novel APIs (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients) by LC and LC/MS.In Agilent, Andrea is a Product Specialist in the Chemistries and Supplies Division in the South-East Asia Pacific and Korea region. He supports customers by helping to develop new analytical methods and improve existing ones to enhance lab efficiency and productivity. He also conducts training, seminars, and workshops. His expertise is in LC and LC/MS analysis of small molecules and biologics.Presenter: Ms. Soo Chin Heng (Product Specialist, Chemistries &amp; Supplies, Agilent Technologies)Soo Chin is currently a Chemistries &amp; Supplies Product Specialist with Agilent Technologies Singapore, covering South Asia Pacific and Korea region. She holds a BSc (Hons) in Chemistry and MSc in Advanced Chemical Engineering from Imperial College, London.Over 12 years in Agilent, she held roles as Agilent inside sales for Chromatography &amp; Spectroscopy instruments, as well as a pre-sales applications scientist for HPLC and Spectroscopy products, specializing in food market applications, purification by preparative LC and thin films &amp; optical coatings in materials applications. She supports customers by providing Agilent workflow solutions to our customers from the applied and life science market segments and actively supports trainings, seminars and workshops.</blockquote>

Agilent: Mastering Chromatographic Adjustments: A Guide to USP Chapter 621

Mastering Chromatographic Adjustments: A Guide to USP Chapter 621

Successful implementing USP Chapter 621: the practicality of using Agilent recommended LC supplies

Chromatographic Adjustments: A Guide to USP Chapter 621

USP &lt;621&gt; is a crucial chapter in the USP guidelines, affecting around 5000 monographs. It emphasizes the importance of establishing meaningful system suitability criteria for chromatography procedures to ensure valid, compendial, and regulatory compliance. The latest version of USP &lt;621&gt;, effective from December 2022, provides detailed guidance on method adjustments and transfers, facilitating the modernization of existing USP monograph methods. The revisions also expand the scope for modifying gradient method parameters and allow the transition from totally porous silica-based analytical columns to superficially porous particle-based columns to better meet industry needs.<h5>Key Learnings:</h5><ul><li>Strategies for optimizing chromatographic performance using right HPLC system</li><li>Understand the latest updates in USP &lt;621&gt; and how they impact chromatographic practices</li><li>Techniques for enhancing laboratory productivity and reducing operational costs</li><li>Strategies to modernize chromatographic conditions with case-studies</li><li>Revised System suitability requirements and allowable chromatographic system adjustments</li><li>and more</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Dr. Manoj Kumar Singh (Senior Vice President, Microlabs Analytical Research Lab)Dr. Manoj K Singh hold over 30 yrs of professional experience of working with global pharma companies leading their Analytical labs to support different pharma work-flows.He holds a Ph.D. degree (Chemistry).He started his professional career in 1993 with Wockhardt and spent significant tenure at major pharma R&amp;Ds like Lupin, Novartis, Orchid, Dabur &amp; Sentiss Pharma.Currently he is associated with MicroLabs Bangalore as Senior Vice President (ADL) leading team of Analytical Chemistry scientists to support formulation development, Validations and method transfer.Presenter: Dr. Kuldeep Sharma (Sales Development Manager - Pharma, Agilent Technologies)Kuldeep Sharma has over 19 years of experience in area/s of Bioanalytical research, Drug metabolism &amp; pharmacokinetics and Pharma regulatory compliance. He has accomplished PhD in Biotechnology. His professional journey covers over 12 years in Analytical research (associated with R&amp;D’s of Zydus Cadila, Lambda, Pliva and Jubilant Biosys) and last 7 years in analytical instruments sales, marketing &amp; business development. With over 21 research articles published in international Journals, He presents convention of continues learning.</blockquote>

Agilent: Enhance Lab Productivity While Meeting Regulatory Requirements: USP 621 Decoded

USP 621 Decoded

Enhance Lab Productivity While Meeting Regulatory Requirements

This webinar is the first part in a three-part series called "A Systematic UHPLC / HPLC Method Development Strategy with Complementary Stationary Phases to Maximize Selectivity and Resolution." Each part is about 20min long.In this seminar, we review the importance of chromatographic selectivity in RPLC from a theoretical and practical perspective and how this relates to analyte resolution for method development. An overview of the method development workflow is discussed.<blockquote>Presenter: Gemma Lo (Portfolio Manager Avantor)</blockquote>

MAC-MOD ANALYTICAL: Understanding Chromatographic Selectivity

Understanding Chromatographic Selectivity

We review the importance of chromatographic selectivity in RPLC from a theoretical and practical perspective and how this relates to analyte resolution.

LCMS webinars focusing on HPLC - page 19