Meeting EU Drinking Water Standards: The Critical Role of Sample Prep in Trace Contaminant Analysis

<h3><strong>Charged for Action: The Hidden Secrets of AEX Oligonucleotide Analysis</strong></h3><p><strong>Oligonucleotides—short, well-defined fragments of DNA or RNA—have become indispensable tools in modern life sciences. They underpin cutting-edge applications in molecular diagnostics, gene therapy, and pharmaceutical development. Before oligonucleotides can be confidently used in research or clinical settings, however, their quality must be rigorously assessed. Purity, sequence integrity, length distribution, and chemical modifications all play a decisive role in their performance.</strong></p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Oligos_Made_Easy_Part_2_AEX_2_45eee54fa0.jpg" alt="KNAUER: Oligos Made Easy - Part 2: AEX" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Oligos_Made_Easy_Part_2_AEX_2_45eee54fa0.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1534" height="711"></p><p>Among the analytical techniques available today, <strong>anion exchange chromatography (AEX)</strong> stands out as a robust and highly informative method for characterizing oligonucleotides. By exploiting their intrinsic negative charge, AEX provides detailed insight into product composition and impurity profiles that are difficult to obtain by other approaches.</p><blockquote><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/article/6808"><strong>Part 1 of the Oligos series: A Practical Guide to Oligonucleotide Production – From Concept to Final Product</strong></a></p></blockquote><h4><strong>How Scientists Read Oligonucleotides Using Charge</strong></h4><p>At the core of AEX lies a simple but powerful principle: oligonucleotides carry a negatively charged phosphate backbone. This charge increases in a predictable way with strand length and, to a lesser extent, sequence composition. Anion exchange chromatography uses this property to separate oligonucleotides based on differences in charge strength and interaction with a positively charged stationary phase.</p><p>As a result, AEX has become one of the most widely used analytical tools for evaluating oligonucleotide quality. It allows scientists to distinguish full-length products from truncated species, degradation products, or closely related variants—often with single-nucleotide resolution.</p><h4><strong>Why Ion Exchange Works: Binding, Retention, and Release</strong></h4><p>Ion exchange chromatography (IEX) relies on electrostatic interactions between analytes and a charged stationary phase. In the case of oligonucleotides, <strong>anion exchange</strong> is used, where negatively charged molecules interact with positively charged functional groups on the resin—most commonly quaternary amines.</p><p>The system consists of two main components:</p><ul><li><strong>Stationary phase:</strong> A positively charged resin that binds anionic analytes.</li><li><strong>Mobile phase:</strong> An aqueous buffer system, typically combined with a salt gradient, that controls both pH and elution strength.</li></ul><p>Retention in AEX is governed primarily by charge. Molecules with weaker overall charge interact less strongly with the stationary phase and elute earlier, while more highly charged oligonucleotides bind more tightly and require stronger elution conditions.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Oligos_Made_Easy_Part_2_AEX_Figure_1_IEX_overview_including_elution_order_dependency_on_analyte_charge_3419ad3075.jpg" alt="KNAUER: Oligos Made Easy - Part 2 AEX: Figure 1 IEX overview including elution order dependency on analyte charge." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Oligos_Made_Easy_Part_2_AEX_Figure_1_IEX_overview_including_elution_order_dependency_on_analyte_charge_3419ad3075.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1583" height="654"></p><h4><strong>The Five-Step Workflow of Ion Exchange Chromatography</strong></h4><p>AEX separations generally follow a well-established sequence of steps:</p><ol><li><strong>Column equilibration</strong><br>The column is conditioned with the starting buffer until the baseline and pH are stable. This ensures that all charged sites on the resin are ready for interaction.</li><li><strong>Sample loading</strong><br>Samples, prepared in the starting buffer, are introduced under conditions that promote binding of the target oligonucleotides while minimizing retention of unwanted impurities.</li><li><strong>Washing</strong><br>The column is washed with the starting buffer to remove uncharged or weakly interacting components. The baseline stabilizes as these species are flushed away.</li><li><strong>Elution</strong><br>Bound oligonucleotides are released using a salt or pH gradient. Increasing ionic strength introduces competing ions that displace the analytes from the resin. Weakly bound species elute first; strongly charged oligonucleotides elute later.</li><li><strong>Regeneration and re-equilibration</strong><br>A high-salt buffer removes any remaining bound material. The column is then returned to starting conditions in preparation for the next analysis.</li></ol><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Oligos_Made_Easy_Part_2_AEX_Figure_2_Five_steps_of_IEX_procedure_in_blue_outlined_using_an_example_chromatogram_in_red_38dd70b1b1.jpg" alt="KNAUER: Oligos Made Easy - Part 2 AEX: Figure 2  Five steps of IEX procedure (in blue), outlined using an example chromatogram (in red)." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Oligos_Made_Easy_Part_2_AEX_Figure_2_Five_steps_of_IEX_procedure_in_blue_outlined_using_an_example_chromatogram_in_red_38dd70b1b1.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1583" height="674"></p><h4><strong>Why AEX Is Especially Effective for Oligonucleotides</strong></h4><p>The repeating phosphate backbone of oligonucleotides gives rise to a strong and uniform anionic character across a wide pH range (typically pH 7–9). This makes oligonucleotides exceptionally well suited for anion exchange separations.</p><p>Key factors influencing AEX behavior include:</p><ul><li><strong>Charge density:</strong> Longer oligonucleotides carry more negative charges and therefore exhibit stronger retention.</li><li><strong>Resin chemistry:</strong> Strong and weak anion exchangers differ in functional groups and pH stability, influencing selectivity and robustness.</li><li><strong>Buffer composition:</strong> The choice of buffering ions and salt gradients directly affects elution strength and resolution.</li></ul><p>Salt gradients—commonly based on chloride ions—compete with the oligonucleotide backbone for binding sites on the resin. By carefully tuning gradient slope and composition, analysts can achieve highly reproducible and finely resolved separations.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Oligos_Made_Easy_Part_2_AEX_Figure_3_Ionic_interactions_and_p_H_influence_on_Anion_Exchange_Chromatography_AEX_612e231ba4.jpg" alt="KNAUER: Oligos Made Easy - Part 2 AEX: Figure 3 Ionic interactions and pH influence on Anion Exchange Chromatography (AEX)." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Oligos_Made_Easy_Part_2_AEX_Figure_3_Ionic_interactions_and_p_H_influence_on_Anion_Exchange_Chromatography_AEX_612e231ba4.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1547" height="593"></p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Oligos_Made_Easy_Part_2_AEX_Figure_4_AEX_buffer_selection_and_gradient_strategy_chromatogram_with_red_buffer_gradient_curve_53fd1bb11b.jpg" alt="KNAUER: Oligos Made Easy - Part 2 AEX: Figure 4 AEX buffer selection and gradient strategy (chromatogram with red buffer gradient curve)." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Oligos_Made_Easy_Part_2_AEX_Figure_4_AEX_buffer_selection_and_gradient_strategy_chromatogram_with_red_buffer_gradient_curve_53fd1bb11b.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="327"></p><h4><strong>AEX as the Gold Standard for Oligonucleotide Separation</strong></h4><p>Anion exchange chromatography has become the method of choice for both analytical and preparative oligonucleotide workflows. Its advantages include:</p><ul><li><strong>High resolving power:</strong> Closely related impurities, including n–1 or n–2 species, can often be separated and quantified.</li><li><strong>Predictable retention behavior:</strong> In many cases, retention time correlates linearly with oligonucleotide length, simplifying identification.</li><li><strong>Compatibility with modified oligonucleotides:</strong> Even chemically modified sequences retain their anionic nature, allowing AEX to resolve both products and related impurities.</li><li><strong>Excellent control via gradient elution:</strong> Salt gradients provide precise tuning of selectivity and resolution.</li></ul><p>Typically, shorter or degraded oligonucleotides elute at lower ionic strength, while full-length products with higher charge density appear later in the chromatogram.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Oligos_Made_Easy_Part_2_AEX_Figure_5_AEX_Advantages_and_Challenges_7835521e34.jpg" alt="KNAUER: Oligos Made Easy - Part 2 AEX: Figure 5 AEX Advantages and Challenges." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Oligos_Made_Easy_Part_2_AEX_Figure_5_AEX_Advantages_and_Challenges_7835521e34.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1535" height="707"></p><h4><strong>Final Perspective: Mastering AEX with Confidence</strong></h4><p>Anion exchange chromatography may appear complex at first, but with thoughtful optimization of pH, buffer composition, and gradient conditions, it becomes a highly precise and reliable tool for oligonucleotide analysis. When properly applied, AEX delivers sharp peaks, excellent resolution, and robust performance—even for challenging sequences and modifications.</p><p>For laboratories developing or refining oligonucleotide workflows, AEX offers both analytical depth and operational confidence.</p><blockquote><p>If you would like to discuss AEX method development or optimization for oligonucleotides, feel free to contact us at <strong>sales@knauer.net</strong>. More insights into practical oligonucleotide analysis will follow in our <i>“Oligos Made Easy”</i> series.</p><p>For technical questions or in-depth discussion, the author can be reached at <strong>kindler@knauer.net</strong></p></blockquote>

Oligos Made Easy - Part 2: AEX

<p><strong>Although modern agriculture needs to be based on accurate real-time data on soil, plant, and environmental conditions, affordable, sufficiently sensitive, and robust monitoring devices for this purpose are currently missing. According to scientists, low-cost sensors based on new smart materials and printing technologies offer a suitable solution. The results of multidisciplinary research thus far and proposals for the development of these devices have been presented by researchers from Czechia, Great Britain, Spain, and the USA in a review article in the prestigious journal </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-026-68778-6#Abs1"><i><strong>Nature Communications</strong></i></a><strong>.</strong></p><p>“<i>Sensor technologies for monitoring plant health are still in their infancy. Only simple sensors capable of monitoring basic parameters such as pH, soil moisture, or temperature are commonly available on the market. However, if farmers are to face current challenges, including climate change, and ensure sufficient food for humanity, they need much more effective tools that will enable them to monitor, for example, various pathogens, including bacteria and fungi. In our opinion, a suitable solution is a combination of new smart materials and printing for the production of inexpensive, durable, and scalable materials</i>,” said the article’s first author, <strong>David Panáček</strong> from CATRIN, who worked on the study during his internship at Imperial College London.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CATRIN_Soucasne_senzory_nestaci_Vedci_navrhuji_novou_cestu_ke_sledovani_zdravi_rostlin_b4014952a3.jpg" alt="CATRIN: David Panáček" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CATRIN_Soucasne_senzory_nestaci_Vedci_navrhuji_novou_cestu_ke_sledovani_zdravi_rostlin_b4014952a3.jpg 208w," sizes="100vw" width="1536" height="1152"></p><p>Sensors for monitoring plant health, for example, lag behind similar devices used in human medicine. According to the authors, advances in materials science, which will enable the development of scalable sensor technologies, play a key role in this potential shift. “<i>Printing techniques, including inkjet printing, screen printing, aerosol printing, 3D printing, and direct laser writing, offer flexible ways to produce flexible sensors, large-area sensors, and sensors integrated directly into plants. The review article summarizes recent advances in printable low-dimensional materials for agricultural sensors, analyzes their physico-chemical properties in relation to sensor performance, and discusses key challenges and future opportunities requiring interdisciplinary integration</i>,” said one of the corresponding authors, <strong>Michal Otyepka</strong>.</p><p>The research brought together materials scientists, chemists, biologists, sensing experts, and printing technology specialists. Materials research and the use of graphene-based smart materials were led by scientists from CATRIN at Palacký University and VŠB-Technical University of Ostrava. Plant biologists from CATRIN contributed their knowledge of plant development, their responses to stress conditions, and the monitoring of their properties. Researchers from Imperial College London took care of the electronics, while representatives from<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/companies/36"><strong> CEITEC – VUT</strong></a> focused on printing technologies. The team also included leading experts in sensing from the Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology in Barcelona, and Joseph Wang of the University of California San Diego, the “father of sensing and electrochemistry,” also contributed his extensive knowledge.</p><p>“<i>This is a groundbreaking study on this topic, which has managed to attract some truly big names in their respective fields. Last but not least, the study demonstrates that interdisciplinarity at CATRIN gives rise to completely new and promising research topics, such as plant sensing and its use for studying plant-environment interactions and smart agriculture,</i>” added another corresponding author, <strong>Nuria De Diego</strong>.</p>

Current sensors are not good enough. Scientists propose a new way to monitor plant health

Article

Environment

Scientific article

Science and research

Video

The Czech Advanced Technology and Research Institute (CATRIN) at Palacký University is a cutting-edge scientific hub dedicated to advancing research in the fields of nanotechnology, biotechnology, and biomedicine. At its core, CATRIN boasts outstanding scientific teams, featuring international researchers. We emphasize interdisciplinarity, foster global collaborations, and work to translate our research findings into practical applications.

CATRIN

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

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

KNAUER

Mettler-Toledo

Agilent Technologies

Technology Networks

Thermo Fisher Scientific

SCIEX

Waters Corporation

<header><p><strong>Join Us for an Engaging Live Webinar on Integrating UV/Vis Spectroscopy Into Your Laboratory Workflows</strong></p></header><main><div><div><p><strong>Program&nbsp;</strong></p><ul><li>Introduction to UV/Vis Spectroscopy</li><li>The Power of Integration</li><li>Live Demonstration</li><li>Customer Use Cases</li><li>Engage &amp; Discuss</li></ul></div></div><div><div><p>Discover how connecting your UV/Vis spectrophotometer with instruments like balances can transform your laboratory processes. By transmitting dissolution data directly to the spectrophotometer, you can streamline workflows and enhance data quality, leading to improved productivity and accuracy.</p></div></div><div><div><div><p>In this informative session, we’ll showcase the power of instrument integration and how it can revolutionize your daily routines. Using real-world case studies from various industries, including battery manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and food and beverage, you’ll gain valuable insights into optimizing your laboratory workflows.</p><p><strong>Program Highlights</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Introduction to UV/Vis Spectroscopy</strong><br>Understand the basics and applications of UV/Vis spectroscopy in laboratories.</li><li><strong>The Power of Integration</strong><br>Explore the benefits of connecting your UV/Vis spectrophotometer with balances and other instruments.</li><li><strong>Live Demonstration</strong><br>Witness a live demonstration of data transmission from a balance to a UV/Vis spectrophotometer.</li><li><strong>Customer Use Cases</strong><br>Learn about integrated processes used in the battery, pharma, and food &amp; beverage industries.</li><li><strong>Engage &amp; Discuss</strong><br>Participate in a Q&amp;A session where we address your questions and discuss potential applications in your own lab.</li></ul><p>Don’t miss this opportunity to explore innovative solutions that can help you think critically about your own processes and enhance your laboratory's efficiency!</p></div></div></div></main><div><div><p><strong>Target Audience</strong></p><div><p>This webinar is designed for laboratory professionals, scientists, and managers across various industries, including:</p><ul><li>Pharmaceuticals: Quality control and research &amp; development teams looking to improve analytical processes</li><li>Food &amp; Beverage: Quality assurance and product development personnel aiming to enhance product testing efficiency</li><li>Battery Manufacturing: Engineers and technicians interested in optimizing material testing workflows</li><li>Laboratory Managers: Professionals seeking to streamline operations and improve data quality through instrument integration</li></ul><p>Whether you are just starting with UV/Vis spectroscopy or looking to enhance your existing laboratory workflows, this webinar is perfect for you. Register now to secure your spot and take the first step towards a more efficient laboratory.</p><ul><li><span style="padding-right:0px;" id="webinar-session-1"><strong>1. 10. 2025 9:00,&nbsp; English&nbsp;</strong></span><span id="webinar-session-2"><strong><svg width="16" height="16" viewBox="0 0 16 16" fill="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"></svg></strong></span></li><li><span id="webinar-session-2"><strong>1. 10. 2025 17:00,&nbsp; English&nbsp;</strong></span></li></ul><blockquote><p><span id="webinar-session-2"><strong>Presenter: </strong></span>Anika Adams (Product Manager, SPG UV/VIS)</p><div><p>Anika Adams is Product Manager for UV/Vis Spectrophotometers at METTLER TOLEDO, where she focuses on driving innovation and optimizing customer workflows. With a degree in business administration and experience spanning software development, mechanical engineering, and production, Anika brings a multidisciplinary perspective to the laboratory business. Her expertise lies in automating and enhancing customer processes, ensuring both product excellence and customer satisfaction.</p><p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Dr. Fabian Müller (Product Manager, SPG UV/VIS)</p><div><div><div><div><p>Dr. Fabian Müller, Ph.D., is an accomplished chemist from the ETH Zürich in Switzerland. After completing his doctoral studies, Dr. Müller joined the team at METTLER TOLEDO as an Application Specialist for UV/Vis spectroscopy, where he quickly established himself as a skilled and knowledgeable professional. His expertise in this area led to his promotion to the position of Product Manager for UV/Vis spectrophotometers.</p></div></div></div></div></div></blockquote></div></div></div>

Mettler Toledo: UV/Vis Integration in Laboratory Workflows 

UV/Vis Integration in Laboratory Workflows 

Join Us for an Engaging Live Webinar on Integrating UV/Vis Spectroscopy Into Your Laboratory Workflows

<div><h4><strong>Start Your Journey to ASTRA Expertise</strong></h4><p>Join us for the last <strong>5 series</strong> on building the perfect method for light scattering analysis.</p><p>Learn advanced tools and techniques to master ASTRA software, from normalization to DLS with flowing systems.</p><h4><strong>Session Overview:</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Part 6 of 10</strong> Baselines &amp; Peaks - Best Practices &amp; Navigating Unexpected Chromatograms<ul><li>Thursday, September 11</li></ul></li><li><strong>Part 7 of 10 </strong>Light Scattering Formalisms - Zimm, Mie, Berry, Debye, oh my! When and Why to Use Them<ul><li>Thursday, September 25</li></ul></li><li><h5><strong>Part 8 of 10: Calculation Uncertainty and Error Analysis: Establishing Meaningful MALS Results</strong></h5><ul><li>Thursday, October 2</li></ul></li><li><strong>Part 9 of 10: </strong>Distribution Analysis &amp; Results Fitting: Advanced Peak Analysis Tools<ul><li>Thursday, October 9</li></ul></li><li><strong>Part 10 of 10:</strong> Mass Recovery &amp; Data Exporting: Effective Reporting of Results and Findings<ul><li>Thursday, October 23</li></ul></li></ul><h4><strong>Why Attend:</strong></h4><ul><li>Deepen your understanding of light scattering and ASTRA.</li><li>Gain actionable insights for your lab.</li><li>Interact with our expert, Dr. Christian Ackerschott.<br>&nbsp;</li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>Hosted by:</strong> Dr. Christian Ackerschott</p><p>Dr. Christian Ackerschott studied Chemistry at the University of Cologne and finished with his diploma thesis in Biochemistry. He completed his studies with the PhD thesis “Characterization of Recombinant Flagelliform Spider Silk Proteins” at the Technische Universität München, where AF4-MALS was used as an essential characterization method.</p><p>Since 2007, Christian works at Wyatt Technology as Application Scientist and is now Head of Customer Service. His tasks also include customer trainings in Dernbach and onsite as well as education and training of the local Field Application Scientists.</p></blockquote></div>

Waters Corporation: Interactive Web Series EU – Becoming a SEC-MALS & ASTRA Expert

Becoming a SEC-MALS & ASTRA Expert: Part 8

Improve the reliability of your results by understanding error sources and uncertainty in MALS. Learn how to establish meaningful conclusions.

Becoming SEC-MALS & ASTRA Expert Part 8

<div><p><strong>Join us for the last 5 series on building the perfect method for light scattering analysis.</strong></p><p><strong>Learn advanced tools and techniques to master ASTRA software, from normalization to DLS with flowing systems.</strong></p><h4><strong>Session Overview:</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Part 6 of 10: </strong>Building the Perfect Method - Normalization, Alignment, &amp; Inter-Detector Band Broadening Corrections<ul><li>Friday, September 26</li></ul></li><li><h5><strong>Part 7 of 10: Navigating Sample Parameters – A Close Look at dn/dc and Extinction Coefficients</strong></h5><ul><li>Friday, October 3</li></ul></li><li><strong>Part 8 of 10: </strong>Advanced Characterization Tools for Multi-Component Analytes - Protein Conjugates, AAV, LNP and ADC<ul><li>Friday, October 10</li></ul></li><li><strong>Part 9 of 10: </strong>ASTRA for Particles: When and How to Deploy<ul><li>Friday, October 17</li></ul></li><li><strong>Part 10 of 10: </strong>DLS with Flowing Systems – Leveraging Rh and the Burchard-Stockmayer Plot in ASTRA<ul><li>Friday, October 24</li></ul></li></ul><h4><strong>Why Attend:</strong></h4><ul><li>Deepen your understanding of light scattering and ASTRA.</li><li>Gain actionable insights for your lab.</li><li>Interact with our expert, Dr. Andy Meyer.</li></ul><p>The live interactive web series are 100% live sessions, with anonymous Q&amp;A welcome during and after the discussion. Free for all Wyatt customers.</p><blockquote><p><strong>Hosted by:</strong> Dr. Andy Meyer</p><p>Dr. Andy Meyer joined Wyatt Technology in 2001, serving for several years as an Applications Scientist, then as Dean of Wyatt's "Light Scattering University" and as Director of Customer Service &amp; Support. After managing multiple regions in North America, Dr. Meyer is now a Principal Trainer for Waters | Wyatt Technology. As a Wyatt customer, he completed his Ph.D. in Applied Science – Polymer Chemistry from the College of William and Mary in Virginia.</p></blockquote></div>

Waters Corporation: Becoming an ASTRA Expert

Becoming an ASTRA Expert: Part 7

Master the use of dn/dc and extinction coefficients in ASTRA. Understand how these key parameters influence accurate molar mass and concentration results.

<div><p><strong>Analytical methods are essential to ensuring pharmaceutical product quality, regulatory compliance, and patient safety. However, their reliability and reproducibility can be compromised by multiple sources of variability—including reagent quality, instrument performance, operator technique, sample preparation, and data processing. Understanding and controlling these sources is critical, especially when justifying post-approval changes to validated methods.</strong></p><p>This three-part webinar series features expert Peter Baker (Live Oak QA, Austin, Texas) and focuses on the importance of identifying, monitoring, and documenting variability within analytical workflows. Through open discussion and real-world insights, participants will gain a deeper understanding of how to build a scientifically sound case for method adjustments while maintaining regulatory compliance. Each session includes a live Q&amp;A to encourage interaction and address specific challenges.</p><h4><strong>Session 3: Analytical Control in Action – Real-World Case Studies</strong></h4><p>The final session presents real-world examples of method variability and how companies have successfully justified changes due to shifts in materials, instruments, or processes. Emphasis will be placed on documentation, regulatory communication, and lessons learned.</p><p><i><strong>Goal: </strong>Apply insights from case studies to your own workflows and gain practical strategies for managing change.</i><br>&nbsp;</p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Peter Baker (President, Live Oak Quality Assurance LLC)</p><p>Peter E. Baker, President, Live Oak Quality Assurance LLC, has been consulting nationally and internationally since April 2019. Prior to consulting, Peter spent 11 years as a U.S. FDA Drug Investigator, with most of those years spent working in FDA’s overseas offices located in India, China and Chile. Peter was named FDA Investigator of the Year in 2013 for his work uncovering serious breaches in data integrity and has special interest in data governance and compliance with 21 CFR Part 11. Live Oak focuses on training and employee empowerment in critical thinking, with the goal of improving the quality of medicines through good data management.</p><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Dr. Stephanie Harden (Senior Manager, Small Molecule Core Solutions – LC-MS, Waters Corporation)</p><p>Stephanie Harden, Senior Manager at Waters Corporation, leads the Product Marketing and Scientific teams for Waters small molecule HPLC portfolio. With over 25 years of experience in product and segment marketing, she has a proven track record in strategic program development, cross-functional leadership, and market-driven innovation. Her work connects scientific insight with commercial strategy to drive customer-focused solutions and sustained business growth. Stephanie holds a PhD in Chemistry from the University of Bristol, UK, and is a widely cited author.</p></blockquote></div>

Waters Corporation: Managing Method Variability: A Foundation for Risk-Based Change

Managing Method Variability: A Foundation for Risk-Based Change - Session 3

Discover real case studies on managing analytical variability, documenting changes, and maintaining compliance in pharma workflows.

Analytical Control in Action – Real-World Case Studies

<div><div container-id="cq-colctrl-lt0" comp-id="A1"><div><p><strong>As global food safety regulations become increasingly stringent and consumer scrutiny intensifies, laboratories are under pressure to deliver rapid, accurate results while managing complex sample matrices.</strong></p><p>Analyzing emerging contaminants such as PFAS, pesticides, veterinary drugs and other residues in processed or high-fat foods poses significant challenges in method robustness, instrument uptime and data reliability.</p><p>This webinar will explore how the QSight 500 LC-MS/MS is addressing these evolving demands to provide high-quality data for even the most demanding food matrices.</p><h5><strong>Attend this webinar to:</strong></h5><ul><li>Gain insights into how to optimize your LC-MS/MS workflows for better efficiency and confidence in your results</li><li>Understand how to reliably detect contaminants across complex matrices&nbsp;</li><li>Learn how the QSight 500 LC-MS/MS system brings greater operational efficiency with reduced instrument cleaning&nbsp;</li><li>Explore how enhancing system robustness reduces cost per sample&nbsp;</li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Jamie Foss (Product Manager, Liquid Chromatography &amp; Mass Spectrometry at PerkinElmer)</p><p>Jamie Foss is the Liquid Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry Product Manager at PerkinElmer. Prior to this role, he was a Sr. Application Scientist developing strategic applications in support PerkinElmer’s LC and LC/MS product portfolio. He has developed a wide variety of applications across food, environmental, industrial, forensics and cannabis. Prior to joining PerkinElmer in 2016, he spent 4 years as a forensic chemist for the State of Maine where he focused on the analysis of controlled substances and clandestine laboratory investigation.</p></blockquote></div></div></div>

Technology Networks: Addressing Evolving Demands in Food Analysis

Addressing Evolving Demands in Food Analysis

Optimize food contaminant analysis with QSight 500 LC-MS/MS. Robust, efficient workflows for PFAS, pesticides, and residues in demanding food matrices.

<div><div container-id="cq-colctrl-lt0" comp-id="A1"><div><p><strong>Dr. Hale's research integrates native ambient mass spectrometry (NAMS) to analyze intact proteoform complexes in tissue samples under non-denaturing conditions. Utilizing nano-DESI (nano spray desorption electrospray ionization), this technique enables the spatial mapping of proteoforms within tissues, revealing their distribution and functional implications. The method involves home-built ion sources that provide high-resolution imaging compatible with advanced mass spectrometers like the Orbitrap Eclipse.</strong></p><p>The presentation highlights the ability to analyze proteoforms and their post-translational modifications (PTMs) directly from tissue samples without extensive preparation, preserving the native state of protein complexes. This approach is particularly useful for studying neurodegenerative diseases, where understanding the spatial distribution and interactions of proteoforms can provide insights into disease mechanisms. Dr. Hale emphasizes the importance of this technology in advancing pathology research and improving the detection and identification of high molecular weight proteins and membrane protein complexes.</p><h5><strong>Learning points:</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Spatial Distribution Analysis: </strong>Nano-DESI mass spectrometry enables the spatial mapping of proteoforms within tissues, providing insights into their distribution and functional roles, which is crucial for understanding disease mechanisms, particularly in neurodegenerative diseases.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Non-Denaturing Conditions: </strong>The technique preserves the native state of protein complexes during analysis, allowing for the study of intact proteoforms and their post-translational modifications (PTMs) directly from tissue samples without extensive preparation.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Advanced Mass Spectrometry Techniques: </strong>Utilizing high-resolution mass spectrometers like the Orbitrap Eclipse, the method allows for detailed analysis of high molecular weight proteins and membrane protein complexes, enhancing the detection and identification capabilities for complex biological samples</li></ul><h5><strong>Who should attend:</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Pathology Researchers: </strong>This technique provides valuable insights into the spatial distribution and interactions of proteoforms within tissues, aiding in the understanding of disease mechanisms and pathology.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Neurodegenerative Disease Scientists: </strong>The ability to analyze intact proteoform complexes in their native state is particularly beneficial for studying neurodegenerative diseases, offering potential breakthroughs in understanding disease progression and identifying therapeutic targets.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Mass Spectrometry Technologists:</strong> Professionals working with advanced mass spectrometry techniques can benefit from the innovative application of nano-DESI for high-resolution imaging, enhancing their analytical capabilities and methodologies for complex biological samples. &nbsp;</li></ul><p>If you cannot attend this webinar please register to receive a link to the On Demand version the following day.&nbsp;</p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Dr. Oliver Hale (Postdoctoral Research Fellow, University of Birmingham)</p><p>Dr Oliver Hale is a postdoctoral research fellow who specializes in mass spectrometry. His current focus is on combing native mass spectrometry analysis of intact proteins and mass spectrometry imaging, as part of the EPSRC-funded NAMS project.</p></blockquote></div></div></div>

Thermo Fisher Scientific: ASMS 2025 Workshops

Imaging of intact proteoform complexes in tissue

Learn how nano-DESI native ambient MS maps proteoforms in tissues under non-denaturing conditions, advancing insights into neurodegeneration and pathology.

<p><strong>Gel permeation chromatography (GPC), also known as size exclusion chromatography (SEC), is a critical technique for determining the molecular weight and structural parameters of polymers. While application of this technique spans a wide range of industries from advanced materials to pharmaceuticals, scientists often face significant challenges in method development, data interpretation, and troubleshooting. These complexities can compromise results and slow down your research.</strong></p><p>Join our "Ask the Expert" session for a unique opportunity to get personalized guidance from Agilent GPC specialists. Bring your specific questions and challenges, and our experts will provide practical insights to help you get the most out of your instrumentation.</p><h5><strong>This interactive session will focus on key topics, including:</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Method Development:</strong> Best practices for system configuration and robust method development.</li><li><strong>Component Selection: </strong>How to choose the right columns, standards, and detectors for your application.</li><li><strong>Advanced Setups: </strong>Insights into multi-detector systems (RI, UV, MALS, viscometry).</li><li><strong>Data Analysis: </strong>Utilizing software tools for accurate and reliable data interpretation.</li><li><strong>Troubleshooting: </strong>Strategies to overcome common GPC issues.</li></ul><p>Register now to submit your questions, and we will answer them live during the session.</p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter:&nbsp;</strong> Dr. Andreas Tei (Global Marketing Product Manager Small Molecules LC &amp; GPC Columns, Agilent Technologies)</p><p>Andreas holds master’s and PhD degrees in synthetic organic chemistry from the University of Heidelberg in Germany. He has almost 30 years of experience in analytical and preparative chromatography, starting as an instrument operator for GC/MS and LC/MS instrumentation at the Institute of Pharmacy at the University of Heidelberg. Andreas joined Agilent as a product manager for LC instrumentation, participating in the development of Agilent’s Automated Purification software and Infinity II LC instrumentation. He is now a marketing product manager in Agilent’s small molecule LC and GPC columns and calibration standards portfolio and is involved in creating the next generation of GPC consumables.</p><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Mr. Ganesh Kokate (Pre-Sales Application Support, Agilent Technologies)</p><p>Ganesh is a seasoned pre-sales application engineer with over 24 years of experience in industrial and analytical development roles. Holding a master’s degree in organic chemistry, Ganesh began his career at USV and has since contributed to leading pharmaceutical organizations including Cipla, HIKAL, Torrent, and TCG Lifesciences. He has been at Agilent for three years, specializing in GPC, HPLC method development, prep HPLC, LC/MS, and NMR. His work focuses on impurity profiling of new drug molecules, combinatorial compounds, and biological samples, leveraging chromatography and spectroscopy to determine chemical and physical properties, composition, structure, and reactions of organic and inorganic compounds.</p><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Dr. Ramaprasad Ganni (Technical Support Specialist, Agilent Technologies)</p><p>Ramaprasad has 21 years of experience in the field of chromatography and column chemistries. Having previously worked for Elsevier, Germany, and Millipore, India, he joined Agilent Technologies in 2008 in the Chemistries and Supplies division, where he is responsible for workflow solutions development, providing technical support, and trainings for the food, pharma, petroleum, and biotechnology sectors. His experience spans application development, LC and GC column chemistries and technologies, sample preparation techniques, method development, and troubleshooting issues in LC, GC, mass spectrometry, GPC/SEC, and preparative LC.</p><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Mr. Shreyas Tribhuvane (Business Development Manager, LC Columns, Agilent Technologies)</p><p>Shreyas has 10 years of experience working closely with biopharma customers to understand their analytical characterization needs. As a business development manager for biocolumns and glycan kits, his primary responsibility focuses on assessing the needs of the biopharma market and communicating with the Agilent solutions unit team in order to deliver optimized solutions. He uses his hands-on experience with Agilent glycan sample prep kits to help customers use these kits to optimize their glycan characterization work.</p></blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Ask the Expert: Master Your GPC Workflow

Ask the Expert: Master Your GPC Workflow

Agilent experts share best practices in GPC/SEC method development, detector setups, and troubleshooting. Join the interactive session.

<p><strong>New functions of the improved UV Workstation Software will be described and demonstrated.</strong></p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter:&nbsp;</strong> Scott Melis, PhD (Application Scientist, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)</p><p>Scott Melis has a PHD in Physics from Georgetown University in Washington, DC and started with Agilent in 2021 as a Molecular Spectroscopy Application Scientist. In his graduate work, Scott studied nanoparticle formation and growth for a variety of applications. Projects that he worked with include developing processes to deposit and characterize semiconducting molecular nano-cocrystals for use in optoelectronic devices as well as controlling polymer nanoparticle size through rapid mixing conditions.</p></blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: New Software Features for UV Work Station Software

New Software Features for UV Work Station Software

New functions of the improved UV Workstation Software will be described and demonstrated.

<h4><strong>Are you navigating ICH M10 requirements for your regulated bioanalysis workflows?</strong></h4><p>Join our experts as we break down the globally harmonized ICH M10 guidelines, show how labs are applying them in practice, and explore how SCIEX OS software helps ensure quality, efficiency, and compliance.</p><h5><strong>Key highlights:</strong></h5><ul><li>What the ICH M10 guideline is and why it matters for regulated bioanalysis</li><li>How pharmaceutical labs are approaching method validation and study sample analysis</li><li>Common workflow challenges and inefficiencies in meeting regulatory expectations</li><li>How SCIEX OS software simplifies data management, calculations, and reporting</li><li>A live demonstration of current calculation workflows using SCIEX OS software</li><li>A vision for the future of streamlined bioanalytical validation</li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Henri Meijering, Ardena</p><p>Henri Meijering is a seasoned bioanalytical scientist with over 20 years of experience in drug development and pharmacokinetics. He specializes in developing and validating LC-MS/MS and HPLC methods for both small and large molecules. At Ardena Bioanalytical Laboratory, Henri leads scientific strategy and supports complex studies as Business Support Manager. A former core member of the EBF during the ICH M10 rollout, he is passionate about advancing scientific rigor and compliance in regulated bioanalysis.</p><p><br><strong>Presenter: </strong>Heather Hughes, SCIEX</p><p>Heather Hughes holds a degree in chemistry from Durham University and has built a career spanning clinical and pharmaceutical science. They began in NHS hospital laboratories, specializing in clinical chemistry, before moving into the pharmaceutical industry with experience at Pfizer and a contract research organization. With a background in both regulated and non-regulated environments, they joined SCIEX nine years ago as an application specialist. In this role, they support customers through training, troubleshooting, and showcasing SCIEX mass spectrometry solutions for small molecule workflows.</p></blockquote>

Streamline your ICH M10 workflows

Webinar on ICH M10 bioanalysis guidelines—learn method validation, sample analysis, and how SCIEX OS software ensures compliance and efficiency.

<p><strong>Food and environmental laboratories and contract testing labs are challenged with high sample volumes, regulatory requirements, and the need for consistent data integrity. A digital platform that can centralize workflow management, instrument connectivity, and compliance tracking is becoming essential.</strong></p><p>Agilent SLIMS unifies sample management, workflow execution, consumables tracking, and reporting into a single platform, providing labs with full visibility and control. This webinar session will demonstrate how SLIMS supports food and environmental workflows by ensuring compliance with ISO 17025, improving operational efficiency, and maintaining data traceability. Workflow examples, ranging from pesticide analysis to PFAS testing, will illustrate how SLIMS can be adapted to diverse applications.</p><h5><strong>Who Should Attend:</strong></h5><ul><li>Food and environmental contract testing lab managers</li><li>Quality assurance and compliance teams working under ISO 17025 standards</li><li>Laboratory operations leads handling multi-step sample workflows</li><li>Scientists and technical staff involved in data management and reporting</li><li>IT/LIMS administrators responsible for digital lab transformation</li></ul><h6><strong>Learning Outcomes:</strong></h6><ul><li>Attendees will gain clarity on how SLIMS can:</li><li>Centralize the management of food and environmental testing workflows from sample intake to final reporting</li><li>Integrate instrument data, consumables inventory, digital SOPs, and chain of custody in one system</li><li>Support ISO 17025 compliance through controlled processes, audit trails, and digital documentation</li><li>Provide adaptable workflows across applications such as pesticides, heavy metals, and PFAS, demonstrating flexibility for diverse analytical needs</li><li>Deliver practical improvements in turnaround times, operational consistency, and reporting reliability across contract testing labs</li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter:&nbsp;</strong> Ralf Davidsson (Product Specialist, Lab Informatics, Agilent Technologies, Australia)</p><p>Based in Brisbane, Australia, Ralf has been with Agilent Technologies for 19 years, and for the past 9 years as a Lab Informatics Product Specialist.</p><p>Holding a MSc degree in Chemical Engineering, he has previously worked in the pharmaceutical industry with method development and validation.</p><p>In his current role, he supports the sales teams and customers with the solution design of digital lab solutions.</p></blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Every Sample Counts: How SLIMS Transforms Testing Workflows

Every Sample Counts: How SLIMS Transforms Testing Workflows

Webinar on Agilent SLIMS: unify workflows, ensure ISO 17025 compliance, and boost efficiency in food and environmental contract testing labs.