Measurement results are only fit for purpose if the measurement uncertainty (MU) is reliable and has a magnitude small enough for the intended use. The target MU is the maximum admissible uncertainty defined for a specific measurement goal.&nbsp;In compliance assessment, the MU should be small enough to enable identification of deviations from compliance relevant to the interests to be protected (such as public health or industrial productivity). Too large an uncertainty would not provide the required protection, while an uncertainty that is too small could mean the use of unnecessary expensive measurements.&nbsp;The Eurachem/CITAC guide on ‘Setting and Using Target Uncertainty in Chemical Measurement’ suggests how to set upper boundaries for the uncertainty based on the intended use of the result [1].&nbsp;The impact of the MU on decisions is illustrated in a fictional scenario.&nbsp;<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Setting_Target_Measurement_Uncertainty_2_daf2cb4ec8.jpg" alt="Eurachem: Setting Target Measurement Uncertainty" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Setting_Target_Measurement_Uncertainty_2_daf2cb4ec8.jpg 150w," sizes="100vw" width="740" height="770">Mr. Reis is a farmer planning to sell oranges to a juice producer. The juice producer checks oranges for thiabendazole pesticide residues and Brix level (degrees Brix provides a measure of orange juice sweetness). The producer only accepts oranges with thiabendazole residues below 1 mg kg-1 and a Brix level above 55 °Bx, paying more if the Brix level is above 65 °Bx.&nbsp;Mr. Reis contracted Laboratory C to analyse his oranges before shipping them to the producer knowing that the customer also checks the oranges in its laboratory. Mr. Reis was very happy with the results provided by Laboratory C although the pesticide residue analyses were expensive.&nbsp;The producer accepted the oranges but decided to pay less than expected.&nbsp;After asking the juice producer, the detailed results of both laboratories were compared. This showed that although the results were metrologically compatible they supported different decisions on the oranges’ price.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Setting_Target_Measurement_Uncertainty_3_aa7c28e61a.jpg" alt="Eurachem: Setting Target Measurement Uncertainty - Laboratory C" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Setting_Target_Measurement_Uncertainty_3_aa7c28e61a.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="927" height="192"><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Setting_Target_Measurement_Uncertainty_4_4588f40881.jpg" alt="Eurachem: Setting Target Measurement Uncertainty - Juice producers Laboratory" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Setting_Target_Measurement_Uncertainty_4_4588f40881.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="911" height="195">The measurement of thiabendazole residues performed by Laboratory C is associated with an extremely low uncertainty making measurements more expensive than necessary. However, the uncertainty associated with the determination of the Brix level is too large, making compliance decisions too uncertain.Measurement results are only fit for the intended use if the measurement uncertainty (MU) is smaller than a maximum acceptable value (i.e. the target MU).&nbsp;Even if the customer or the regulator does not define the target MU, the laboratory should define it to decide if the measurement is fit for the intended use. The Eurachem/CITAC guide [1] suggests the use of different indicators of the measurement quality requirement to define the target MU. Information used to define the target MU is presented from the most likely to become harmonised to the ones supported with less adequate data. The following figure presents this hierarchy of adequacy with numbers from #1 to #9.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Setting_Target_Measurement_Uncertainty_01cd73bb2c.jpg" alt="Eurachem: Setting Target Measurement Uncertainty" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Setting_Target_Measurement_Uncertainty_01cd73bb2c.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="900"><blockquote>Approaches to defining the target MU described in the Eurachem/CITAC Guide, where utg and Utg represent the target standard and expanded uncertainties, respectively. (the numbers in the bottom of the circles identify the sections of the Guide)</blockquote>

Setting Target Measurement Uncertainty

In-source fragmentation can complicate LC-MS/MS data interpretation because ions may fragment before they reach the collision cell. Instead of obtaining a clean spectrum generated from an isolated precursor ion, the analyst may encounter a mixture containing the protonated molecule, adduct ions, and fragments produced directly in the ion source.NIST26 provides tools for recognizing these spectra and searching them against MS/MS libraries. The workflow described by James Little of Mass Spec Interpretation Services shows how chromatogram search results, filtered and unfiltered scores, and the NIST Library Search window can be combined to identify compounds even when the molecular ion is weak or absent.<blockquote>👉<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/in_source_fragmentation_32d33b2c54.pdf">Download PDF handout here</a></blockquote><h4>What is in-source fragmentation?</h4>In-source fragmentation occurs when analyte ions fragment within the ion source before conventional tandem mass spectrometry takes place. A typical in-source spectrum therefore contains a mixture of precursor and fragment ions.For example, the protonated molecule [M+H]⁺ may remain visible while several fragment ions are simultaneously present. This is fundamentally different from a conventional MS/MS experiment, where a particular precursor is isolated and subsequently fragmented to produce a comparatively clean product-ion spectrum.Terms used for these ions include:<ul><li>In-source fragment ions</li><li>Source-induced fragments</li><li>In-source fragmentation products</li><li>Source fragmentation ions</li><li>In-source CID products</li></ul>The presentation recommends “in-source fragment ions” as the clearest and most explicit terminology.<h4>Why in-source fragmentation matters for library searching</h4>When a reference standard is infused during the generation of NIST library data, MS2 spectra can be acquired not only for molecular-ion adducts but also for fragment ions observed at high resolution.This becomes particularly important for compounds whose intact protonated molecule is weak or essentially absent. In such cases, searching exclusively for [M+H]⁺ could prevent a useful library match even though abundant and characteristic fragment ions are available.The spectrum illustrated on page 3 of the presentation demonstrates this concept: the same spectrum contains fragment ions at m/z 311 and 333 together with [M+H]⁺ at m/z 377, [M+Na]⁺ at m/z 399, and [M+K]⁺ at m/z 415.<h4>Cholesterol: when the protonated molecule is not enough</h4>Cholesterol provides a useful example. In positive-ion electrospray, essentially no significant intensity is observed for the [M+H]⁺ ion of cholesterol. Instead, loss of water produces an abundant dehydrated ion.Consequently, a major cholesterol MS/MS spectrum in the NIST library is based on [M+H−H₂O]⁺ at m/z 369.3506 rather than the intact [M+H]⁺ precursor.This illustrates an important principle: a useful MS/MS library spectrum does not necessarily have to originate from the intact protonated molecule. Stable and abundant ions generated through predictable in-source fragmentation can also provide valuable information for compound identification.<h4>How NIST26 handles small neutral losses</h4>For relatively small losses, NIST26 can associate the resulting ion with the correct molecular structure directly in the Chromatogram window.This applies to losses such as:<ul><li>H₂O</li><li>NH₃</li><li>Other small neutral molecules</li><li>Adduct formation such as [M+Na]⁺</li></ul>For cholesterol, for example, a chromatogram search result for [M+H−H₂O]⁺ can therefore still be displayed together with the correct cholesterol structure.The presentation provides oxosorbicillinol as another example. Its chromatogram result is associated with the precursor type [M+H−H₂O]⁺ while retaining the identity and structure of oxosorbicillinol.<h4>What happens with larger fragment losses?</h4>The situation becomes more complicated when fragmentation involves a larger mass loss.For large fragment losses, the correct parent structure is not displayed directly for the corresponding entry in the Chromatogram results list. Structures are shown there primarily for conventional molecular/adduct ions such as M+H and M+Na and for the small neutral losses discussed above.To investigate larger in-source fragments and obtain proposed structures, the spectrum therefore needs to be transferred to the NIST Library Search window.<h4>Using Score and Score (Unfiltered) to find candidates</h4>A useful strategy for recognizing possible in-source fragmentation spectra is to compare the standard Score with Score (Unfiltered).The presentation recommends adding Score (Unfiltered) as a displayed property in the lower Chromatogram window and using a reasonably high value, such as &gt;800, in the filter settings. Results can then be sorted by Score (Unfiltered), placing the highest-scoring candidates at the top.The analyst should pay particular attention to entries where:Score is much lower than Score (Unfiltered).Such a large discrepancy can indicate a potentially useful in-source fragmentation spectrum that deserves further investigation.The example shown in the presentation is particularly striking:<ul><li>Score: 22</li><li>Score (Unfiltered): 928</li></ul>Despite the extremely low conventional Score, the very high unfiltered score indicates that the spectrum contains potentially valuable information that can be explored through a dedicated library search.<h4>Finding in-source candidates in the chromatogram</h4>NIST26 also provides a visual way to recognize potential candidates.Possible in-source spectra are indicated by blue dots in the Chromatogram TIC plot. Selecting one of these candidates with the mouse changes the marker from blue to green, indicating the currently active spectrum linked to the corresponding entry in the results list.This makes it possible to move visually through the chromatogram while simultaneously inspecting candidate spectra and their associated scores. The TIC example on pages 7–8 shows how these potential in-source spectra are distributed across the chromatographic run.<h4>How to send an in-source spectrum to Library Search</h4>Once a promising candidate has been identified, the workflow is straightforward:<ol><li>Identify a potential in-source spectrum in the Chromatogram window.</li><li>Check its Score and Score (Unfiltered) values.</li><li>Select the candidate in the chromatogram.</li><li>Right-click the corresponding entry.</li><li>Select Library Search.</li><li>Examine the resulting candidates in the NIST Library Search window.</li></ol>Sending the spectrum to Library Search is especially important when larger fragment losses are involved because plausible structures cannot be obtained directly from the Chromatogram results list in these cases.<h4>Interpreting the Library Search results</h4>Once the in-source spectrum has been transferred to Library Search, several potential identities may be returned with high scores.The example on page 9 demonstrates this clearly. Searching an in-source spectrum produces several high-scoring candidate spectra, with the leading result reaching a score of 928. Multiple library spectra for related candidate compounds may appear because different precursor types, collision energies, or fragmentation pathways can produce compatible spectral patterns.The purpose of the search is therefore not simply to accept the first result automatically. Instead, the resulting candidate list provides structures and identities that can be evaluated in the context of the experimental data.<h4>Check the Library Search settings</h4>Correct search settings are important when working with in-source spectra.The presentation illustrates several settings that should be checked before interpreting the results. The search is configured for Identity and MS/MS, with the precursor ion m/z taken from the spectrum. The illustrated high-resolution library search tolerances are 20 ppm for precursor ions and 40 ppm for product ions.Another important point is the MS/MS Hit List Filter. In the workflow shown in the presentation, Enable Filtering (Tandem Only) is switched off.Analysts should therefore verify the Library Search options rather than relying on default settings, as inappropriate filtering could remove potentially useful matches from consideration.<h4>Practical workflow at a glance</h4>For routine investigation of potential in-source fragmentation in NIST26, the presentation suggests the following approach:<ol><li>Review the Chromatogram TIC for possible in-source spectra.</li><li>Add Score (Unfiltered) to the displayed result properties.</li><li>Apply a relatively high Score (Unfiltered) threshold, with &gt;800 suggested as a reasonable starting point.</li><li>Sort results by Score (Unfiltered), highest first.</li><li>Look for unusually large differences between Score and Score (Unfiltered).</li><li>Select promising candidates marked in the TIC.</li><li>Send spectra involving substantial fragment losses to NIST Library Search.</li><li>Verify the MS/MS search and filtering settings.</li><li>Examine the high-scoring library candidates and proposed structures.</li></ol>This workflow provides a practical way to extract identification information from spectra that could otherwise appear problematic because the dominant ion is an in-source fragment rather than the expected molecular-ion adduct.<h4>Conclusion</h4>In-source fragmentation does not necessarily make an LC-MS spectrum unusable. In some cases, particularly for compounds such as cholesterol, a fragment generated before conventional MS/MS can actually be the dominant and analytically useful ion.NIST26 addresses this challenge by combining chromatogram-level searching with high-resolution MS/MS library data. Small neutral losses and common adducts can be associated directly with the parent structure, while more substantial fragmentation can be investigated by transferring the spectrum to the Library Search window. Comparing Score with Score (Unfiltered) provides an additional practical way to recognize promising in-source candidates.By understanding these relationships and using the appropriate search settings, analysts can obtain meaningful structural candidates from spectra that might otherwise be overlooked during LC-MS/MS data interpretation.

In-Source Fragmentation Searches in NIST26 Chromatogram Window

<h3><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.isc2026.org/">ISC 2026</a></h3>The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/companies/314">International Symposium on Chromatography (ISC)</a> represents the oldest conference series on separation science. ISC symposia have been organised since 1956 in each even year. ISC is one of the premier meetings series for discussion of all modes of chromatography and separation science with a broad coverage of techniques and applications.<h4>35th International Symposium on Chromatography</h4>📆6. - 10. September 2026📍Prague, Czech Republic<h3>REGISTRATION</h3><blockquote>👉<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.czech-in.org/cmPortalV15/Account/Login?ReturnUrl=%2FcmPortalV15%2FPortal%2FISC26%2Fnormal">Register HERE for the ISC 2026</a>Late Registration until 25 August 2026</blockquote><h3>VENDOR SEMINARS</h3>Discover the vendor seminars taking place during ISC 2026 in Prague, where leading analytical technology companies will present the latest developments in chromatography, mass spectrometry, and biopharmaceutical analysis. The programme covers stationary phase selectivity, UHPLC and ion chromatography innovations, superficially porous particle columns, virtual GC-MS method modelling, and advanced LC-MS workflows for emerging therapeutics.<h4>Lunch seminar Avantor</h4><h5>Stationary Phase Selectivity: A Powerful Tool for Challenging Separations</h5><ul><li>Monday, 7 September 2026&nbsp;</li><li>13:00-14:00</li><li>👉<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://form.jotform.com/262112522534345">REGISTER HERE</a></li></ul>Stationary phase chemistry is one of the most influential variables in chromatographic method development, providing a powerful means of controlling selectivity and achieving successful separations. While the wide range of commercially available stationary phase chemistries provides extensive opportunities to optimise selectivity, navigating these choices can be challenging, often leading to suboptimal column selection and missed opportunities to improve separation performance or speed of analysis.This seminar will explore why stationary phase selectivity is one of the most powerful tools available to chromatographers for method development. Approaches for characterizing selectivity, including the Tanaka and Neue methodologies, will be discussed as practical tools for understanding and differentiating column chemistries. These concepts will then be used to demonstrate how stationary phase design can be rationalized and how a deeper understanding of selectivity can guide more effective column selection.Application examples will highlight the impact of stationary phase chemistry across a range of analytes, including small molecules and peptides. The seminar will also examine how rational stationary phase selection can be incorporated into streamlined workflows for reversed-phase LC, HILIC and SFC method development.Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how strategic column selection can enhance resolution, reduce method development time, and enhance overall method performance. The concepts presented will provide a practical framework for scientists seeking a more structured, efficient, and knowledge-driven approach to method development.<blockquote>Dr Matt JamesMatt James is a Senior Research Scientist at Avantor Sciences. Matt gained his PhD at University of Bristol and over the last 15 years, he has worked within the Technical Support, Applications and R&amp;D teams within Hichrom, now part of Avantor. Recent focuses have been HPLC/UHPLC method transfer and translation, the use of solid core phases, development of next generation LC stationary phases and the development of LC methods for key applications, such as the analysis of nitrosamines and PFAS by LC-MS/MS.</blockquote><h4>Lunch seminar Shimadzu</h4><h5>Three New Reasons to Rethink Your Workflow</h5><ul><li>Dr. Gesa Schad, Shimadzu Europa GmbH</li><li>Dr. Waldemar Weber, Shimadzu Europa GmbH</li><li>Monday, 7 September 2026&nbsp;</li><li>13:00-14:00</li><li>👉<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.shimadzu.eu/forms/vendor-seminar-registartion_isc2026.html">REGISTER HERE</a></li></ul>Join us for an engaging seminar introducing three new analytical solutions designed to help laboratories work smarter, respond faster, improve robustness, and achieve greater confidence in their results. As analytical demands continue to grow, laboratories need technologies that not only deliver strong performance, but also enhance efficiency, flexibility, and ease of operation. This seminar will highlight how the latest innovations can streamline workflows, support complex applications, and create new opportunities for productivity across the laboratory.<h5><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=nexera+IC">Nexera IC</a> – new compact ion chromatograph&nbsp;</h5><ul><li>This new ion chromatography solution is designed to deliver reliable, high-sensitivity analysis for a anions and cations. With a focus on stability, ease of operation, and workflow efficiency, it helps laboratories achieve consistent results while supporting applications in environmental, food, chemical, and pharmaceutical testing.</li></ul><h5><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=x4">Nexera X4</a> – No more compromise in UHPLC analysis</h5><ul><li>This next-generation UHPLC platform is designed for laboratories that demand both ultra-high performance and robust operation, without compromise. Combining improved usability with dependable, consistent results, it helps optimize throughput, improve data quality, and simplify daily workflows across both routine and advanced analyses.</li></ul><h5><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=GCMS-TQ+RX">GCMS-TQ RX Series</a> – Enhanced Sensitivity and Reliability in GC-MS/MS Analysis&nbsp;</h5><ul><li>Our new advanced triple quadrupole GC-MS/MS systems are engineered to provide highly sensitive, selective, and dependable analysis for complex samples. Designed to support challenging applications such as trace-level detection and regulatory testing, they enable laboratories to strengthen analytical confidence, improve reproducibility, and manage demanding workflows more effectively.</li></ul>Join us to explore the latest innovations and gain valuable insights into our technologies. Register today to secure your place.<h4>Lunch seminar Advanced Materials Technology</h4><h5>Advantages of Superficially Porous Particle Columns for HPLC and LC-MS</h5><ul><li>Stephanie Schuster, Joshua McBee, Conner McHale, Peter Pellegrinelli (Advanced Materials Technology, 3521 Silverside Rd., Wilmington, DE 19810)</li><li>Tuesday, 8 September 2026&nbsp;</li><li>13:00-14:00</li><li>👉<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://halocolumns.com/isc-2026-vendor-lunch-seminar/">REGISTER HERE</a></li></ul> Superficially porous particle (SPP) columns have existed in one form or another since the late 1960s. However, the benefits of the particle with the solid silica core surrounded by the porous silica shell were not realized for small molecules until 2006 when the first sub-3-µm superficially porous particle columns were introduced. This particle technology enabled efficiencies similar to sub-2-µm fully porous particles (FPPs) without the need for ultra-high pressure capable instrumentation. As a result of the high efficiencies and lower back pressure, the columns may be run at faster flow rates to enable high throughput separations. Additionally, the SPP columns are rugged and offer long column lifetimes. This presentation will highlight comparisons between SPP columns and FPP columns for separations of pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and oligonucleotides.<h4>Lunch seminar Restek</h4><h5>Virtual Chromatographic Modelling Software For Optimising Separation Of Isobaric Compounds in GC-MS Methods</h5><ul><li>Sebastian Prisacariu, Anna Pulte</li><li>Tuesday, 8 September 2026&nbsp;</li><li>13:00-14:00</li><li>👉<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://form.jotform.com/262112099571355">REGISTER HERE</a></li></ul>There is a constant balance for high-throughput laboratories between method run times for large panel analyses and resolution of analytes across these panels to allow sufficient data quality. Developing such methods is often time consuming and expensive for laboratories, as dedicated resources are required to test methods iteratively. Chromatographic modelling tools are becoming increasingly popular for method setup and refinement in high-throughput laboratories looking to minimise instrument and analyst downtime. These tools traditionally offer column phase and method condition suggestions based on the separation of a list of analytes, which can then be modified to improve specific separations as necessary.When developing gas chromatography (GC) methods, shortening cycle time often comes at the cost of compounds co-eluting, with the expectation that a mass selective detector, such as a mass spectrometer (MS) will allow resolution through ion-selective quantitation. An issue arises when the method attempts to analyse isobaric compounds, which cannot be distinguished by MS, and as a result labs must rely upon physical separation via column phase chemistry.As GC-MS techniques continue to be adopted by laboratories, there is a need for more tools that consider mass data for analytes when optimising large panel separations. The virtual chromatographic modelling tool used in this study is built with mass spectrum data for compounds included in libraries. When operating in “MS mode”, the software identifies isobaric compounds and prioritises their separation when making recommendations regarding column phase and method conditions. For those using non-mass selective detection methods, the tool is easily toggled to “FID mode” for users interested in resolving all compounds, regardless of specific mass, allowing for flexibility in instrumentation. Results help labs save time and resources in method development and refinement by considering the instrumentation involved in the model.<h4>Lunch seminar Thermo Fisher Scientific</h4><h5>ASOs, ADCs, and Other Therapeutics: Advanced Characterization with Novel Reversed-Phase Columns and Integrated LC–MS Platform</h5><ul><li>Tuesday, 8 September 2026&nbsp;</li><li>13:00-14:00</li><li>👉<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://forms.cloud.microsoft/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=LXJ9toqqd0ehaevremo7Zz9X1b58h7ZKmlE1n_EPKh5URFJOMFFMVlZWOEc2NUQzWUlTTVY2UEhSTy4u&amp;route=shorturl">REGISTER HERE</a></li></ul>Biotherapeutics are becoming increasingly structurally diverse, placing greater demands on analytical platforms that can support efficient development and regulatory readiness. Reversed-phase chromatography (RPC) remains a widely adopted and adaptable technique, supporting applications that range from oligonucleotide analysis to detailed protein characterization and post-translational modification assessment.This seminar explores the integration of a macroporous, monodisperse reversed-phase column with a next-generation bioinert LC system for the analysis of two emerging classes of biotherapeutics. Antisense oligonucleotides were examined under optimized chromatographic conditions, using a design-of-experiments strategy to evaluate how ion-pairing reagents influence both LC separation and downstream MS performance. The platform was further applied to antibody–drug conjugates, combining RPC with Orbitrap mass spectrometry to support multi-level characterization. Intact, sub-unit, and bottom-up analyses enabled drug-to-antibody ratio determination alongside detailed PTM profiling — including glycosylation, oxidation, and deamidation — under native and stress conditions. Collectively, these studies demonstrate a streamlined and adaptable workflow for comprehensive biotherapeutic characterization.<blockquote>Sara Carillo, Ph.D. &nbsp;(Bioanalytical Research Lead, Characterization and Comparability Laboratory National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training (NIBRT), Dublin, Ireland)Sara Carillo completed her Ph.D. in chemical sciences in 2013 at the University of Naples Federico II, where she focused on the structural characterization of polysaccharides and glycoconjugates from Gram-negative bacteria using NMR and mass spectrometry techniques. In 2015, she joined the CCL group at NIBRT, led by Prof. Jonathan Bones. She began her postdoctoral research investigating the effects of extractables and leachables from single-use bioreactors on both the CHO cell N-glycome and the monoclonal antibodies they produce. She currently serves as Bioanalytical Research Lead at NIBRT, where her work centers on developing new mass spectrometry–based analytical approaches to enable deeper and more accessible understanding of biomanufacturing processes and the structural complexity of biopharmaceuticals.Sukhdev Bangar (Senior Product Marketing Manager, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Hemel Hempstead, UK)Sukhdev graduated from De Montfort University (UK) with a BSc. in Pharmaceutical Sciences. After which he worked in the Pharmaceutical industry at GSK &amp; Astra Zeneca performing LC &amp; LC-MS analyses. From 2005 till 2023 Sukhdev worked various roles at Waters Corporation; LC-MS applications, Pharma LC-MS Demo group leader and HPLC Product manager. In his current role at Thermo Fisher Scientific he is responsible for marketing activities for the Vanquish analytical LC’s product portfolio. In this role, he represents the voice of the customer helping shape the future of Vanquish LC systems.&nbsp;</blockquote>

Vendor Seminars at ISC 2026

Article

Events

Academy

Software

Video

Eurachem is a European network promoting international traceability of chemical measurements and good analytical practice. It provides expert guidance, supports method validation, uncertainty evaluation, proficiency testing, and facilitates discussion on technical and policy issues in analytical quality.

Eurachem

The International Symposium on Chromatography (ISC) represents the oldest conference series focussing on separation science. ISC symposia have been organised since 1956 in each even year. ISC is internationally recognised as one of the premier meeting series for discussion of all modes of chromatography and separation science with a broad coverage of techniques and applications.

International Symposium on Chromatography - (ISC)

My main interest is the identification of organic compounds by mass spectrometry in organic mixtures.

James Little/Mass Spec Interpretation Services

Separation Science

Agilent Technologies

US HUPO

Technology Networks

Unchained Labs

Phenomenex

Thermo Fisher Scientific

SCIEX

Waters Corporation

Unexpected changes to our chromatography often lead us to suspect the column first. &nbsp; But, in many cases, the true source of the problem is somewhere else in the system. &nbsp;In this webinar, we’ll explore some of the common chromatography issues we most often hear about as technical support specialists. Whether you’re dealing with shifts in retention time, pressure fluctuations, unexpected peaks, ghost peaks, missing peaks, or your peak shapes just don’t look right, we’ll walk through practical steps for diagnosing and resolving the problem. Having an understanding for where issues typically occur can help us to quickly identify the problem, implement the right corrective action, and prevent the problem from recurring in the future.<blockquote>Speaker: Jean Lane (Application Engineer, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)Jean has been employed with Agilent since Nov 2010 in technical and applications support and has a primary role supporting Agilent’s full line of LC columns and consumables, which also includes support for Agilent’s GPC/SEC product line. She came to Agilent thru acquisition of Varian and the former Polymer Laboratories. Jean has 20 plus years of technical and applications support for both HPLC and GPC consumable products. In addition to practical chromatography experience in the laboratory, she has had many, many years in her technical role involving customer support providing assistance and troubleshooting for customer chromatography issues.</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Becoming A Better Chromatographer Webinar Series

Why Your Column Isn’t Always the Culprit: Smarter HPLC Troubleshooting

Master HPLC troubleshooting with Agilent. Learn to diagnose retention shifts, pressure issues, and ghost peaks outside of the column environment

Smarter HPLC Troubleshooting: Beyond the Column Issues

<h4>What’s trending across Asia and what you should know next</h4>PFAS Asia Summit is back in 2026! Join us with leading experts across science and industry to explore the latest PFAS developments shaping Asia. From evolving regulatory frameworks to cutting-edge research and analytical innovation, this summit offers a focused platform to understand emerging risks, industry responses - helping you stay informed and prepared in a rapidly changing PFAS landscape.<h4>What you will learn:</h4><ul><li>Latest PFAS regulatory updates across global and Asian markets</li><li>Emerging PFAS trends in key industries, including agriculture, electronics, and pharmaceuticals</li><li>Advances in sample preparation and integrated LC-MS/MS technologies for PFAS detection and analysis</li></ul><h4>Agenda</h4><h5>09:00 - 09:05 a.m. Welcome &amp; Introduction</h5><h5>09:05 - 09:35 a.m. PFAS around the world - Regulatory and analytical trends</h5><ul><li>Holly Lee (SCIEX)</li></ul><h5>09:35 - 10:05 a.m. Utilizing LC-MS for proactive PFAS detection in Pharma</h5><ul><li>Eshani Galermo (SCIEX)</li></ul><h5>10:05 - 10:35 a.m. Advanced strategies in LC-MS/MS for clean-up and analysis of PFAS compounds in various sample matrices</h5><ul><li>Namrata Saxena (Phenomenex)</li></ul><h5>10:35 - 11:00 a.m. Behavior and metabolic effects of PFAS in wheat</h5><ul><li>Yanwei Zhang (China)<ul><li>*Speaking language: Chinese</li></ul></li></ul><h5>11:00 - 11:25 a.m. Standardization of IEC test methods for PFAS regulation compliance in the electrical, electronics, and automotive plastic industries</h5><ul><li>Jaehak Jung (Korea)<ul><li>*Speaking language: Korean</li></ul></li></ul><h5>11:25 - 11:55 a.m. Nontarget screening of PFAS transformation products during photoelectrochemical degradation of PFAS in water</h5><ul><li>Jheng-Sian, Yang (Taiwan)<ul><li>*Speaking language: Chinese</li></ul></li></ul><h5>11:55 a.m. - 12:10 p.m. Q&amp;A</h5>*Sessions delivered in non-English languages will be supported with English subtitles.<blockquote>Speaker: Yanwei Zhang, Ph.D. (Associate Researcher, Agro-Environmental Protection Institute, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, China)Speaker:&nbsp;Jaehak Jung, Ph.D. (Chief Technology Officer (CTO), Korea Institute of Analytical Science and Technology (KAIST), Republic of Korea)Speaker: Jheng-Sian Yang, Ph.D. (Assistant Professor, Department of Safety, Health and Environmental Engineering, National United University, Taiwan)Speaker: Holly Lee (Staff Scientist, Global Technical Marketing, Food, SCIEX)Speaker: Eshani Galermo (Staff Scientist, Pharma/Biopharma Quant Lead, SCIEX)Speaker: Namrata Saxena (Technical Manager, Asia/Pacific, Phenomenex)Speaker: See Chung Yip (Field Application Manager, SCIEX)</blockquote>

PFAS Asia Summit 2026

Stay ahead of the changing PFAS landscape in Asia. Learn about evolving regulations, industry impacts, and cutting-edge LC-MS/MS analytical methods

PFAS Asia Summit 2026: Trends, Regulations & LC-MS/MS  

<div><h4>Minimizing QC Release Risk Through Molecule‑Specific Analytics in Empower™ CDS</h4>As MALS gains adoption in QC, many biopharmaceutical labs face a disconnect between absolute molecular measurements and confident lot‑release decisions. Reliance on relative SEC methods, manual calculations, and subjective interpretation can obscure risks related to aggregation, recovery, and molecular distribution - often emerging only during method transfer or regulatory review.In this webinar, we show how integrating QC‑ready MALS into an Empower™ workflow enables labs to quantify and manage release risk. Standardized calculations convert raw MALS data into objective, reviewable metrics - reducing analyst‑dependent interpretation and supporting defensible release decisions before risks become compliance issues.<h4>What will you learn?</h4><ul><li>Transition MALS from characterization to routine QC testing</li><li>Automate critical molecular metrics tied to release specifications</li><li>Improve consistency, traceability, and confidence in release decisions</li></ul><h4>Who should attend</h4><ul><li>QC Managers and Directors responsible for release testing</li><li>MSAT and Method Transfer teams moving methods into QC</li><li>Analytical Development scientists supporting late stage programs</li><li>Regulatory Affairs and Compliance professionals focused on audit readiness</li><li>Organizations working with proteins, peptides, biologics, or complex modalities where aggregation and heterogeneity impact release decisions</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Colette Quinn, Ph.D. (Light Scattering Portfolio Owner, Waters Corporation)Colette Quinn is a Sr. business development manager in the biopharmaceutical group at Waters Corporation. Her focus is around biophysical solutions and how to integrate biophysical and biochemical approaches to enable a “totality of evidence” based approach to problems.</blockquote><blockquote>Presenter: Neil Lander (Senior Principal Product Manager, Waters Corporation)Neil has worked for Waters Corporation since 1994 and has held a variety of positions including Technical Support Specialist, Technical Trainer, Manager Customer Education and currently, Senior Principal Product Manager focusing on Informatics solutions.He provides internal support for Empower Chromatography Data System and is focused on developing laboratory software solutions that help organizations achieve their scientific and operational objectives.</blockquote></div>

Waters Corporation: Reduce QC Release Risk with Molecule Specific Analytics: QC Ready MALS in Empower™ CDS

Reduce QC Release Risk with Molecule Specific Analytics: QC Ready MALS in Empower™ CDS

Reduce biopharma release risks by integrating MALS into Empower CDS. Automate molecular metrics, eliminate manual math, and secure audit readiness

Reduce QC Release Risk with Empower Integrated MALS

Discover how mass spectrometry imaging is expanding beyond molecular detection in this US HUPO webinar featuring experts discussing innovative imaging approaches and emerging biomedical applications.<blockquote>Presenter: Dr. Angela Kruse (Assistant Professor, The Ohio State University)Presenter: Dr. Yasmin Shanneik (Postdoctoral Associate Baylor College of Medicine)Moderator: Dr. Jessica MooreModerator: Dr. Colleen Crouch</blockquote>

US HUPO: Spatial Imaging Series: More Than Mass Spec

Spatial Imaging Series: More Than Mass Spec

Join the US HUPO webinar to explore advances in mass spectrometry imaging and innovative approaches beyond conventional MS analysis.

<div>Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a diverse class of persistent environmental contaminants that can accumulate in biological systems and pose potential risks to human and environmental health. Understanding how different PFAS structures behave within living organisms, including the distribution of individual isomers and their biological effects, remains a significant analytical challenge.In this webinar, researchers will demonstrate how matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization trapped ion mobility spectrometry mass spectrometry was used to differentiate PFAS isomers, analyze PFAS-exposed bacterial biomass, and investigate tissue-specific PFAS distribution in a mouse model.The session will also explore PFAS-associated changes to the hepatic lipidome, highlighting the potential of advanced mass spectrometry approaches for PFAS research.<h4>Attend this webinar to:</h4><ul><li>Understand advanced mass spectrometry approaches for PFAS detection, characterization, and isomer differentiation</li><li>Learn how spatial imaging techniques reveal the biological impact and tissue distribution of environmental contaminants</li><li>Explore emerging applications of spatial mass spectrometry for studying microplastics and other environmental pollutants</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: &nbsp;Elizabeth Neumann, PhD &nbsp;( Assistant Professor, University of California, Davis)&nbsp;Elizabeth Neumann is an assistant professor in the chemistry department at UC Davis. Her research focuses on understanding the molecular and cellular architecture behind complex human disorders, such as renal cell carcinoma, spina bifida and Alzheimer's Disease.&nbsp;</blockquote><blockquote>Presenter: Autumn Qiu, PhD ( Assistant Professor, Michigan State University)&nbsp;Prof. Tian (Autumn) Qiu earned her Bachelor of Science in chemistry from Peking University and her PhD from the University of Minnesota. Autumn’s PhD studies focused on nanotoxicity mechanisms in environmental bacteria at the Center for Sustainable Nanotechnology. She was a Beckman Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and worked on D-amino acids in the microbiome-gut-brain axis. She joined Michigan State University as an Assistant Professor in 2022. Her lab investigates interactions among environmental contaminants, microbial metabolism, and host responses using mass spectrometry, particularly MALDI-MS, integrated with animal models and toxicological analyses.&nbsp;</blockquote></div>

Bruker: Unlocking New Insights Into PFAS Distribution and Biological Impact

Unlocking New Insights Into PFAS Distribution and Biological Impact

Explore advanced PFAS analysis with MALDI-TIMS-MS imaging. Discover how to differentiate isomers and investigate tissue-specific lipidome changes

Spatial PFAS Analysis: MALDI-TIMS-MS

<h4>By attending this presentation you will:</h4><ul><li>Explore a range of chromatographic separation modes for Bicycle® molecules and their impurities.</li><li>Gain practical insights into the identification and characterization of impurities and degradation products.</li><li>Learn a systematic approach to developing effective separation methods.</li><li>Recognize best practices for optimizing separations to support analytical development and stability studies.</li></ul><h4>Event Overview</h4>Bicycle® molecules are novel medium molecules and provide a unique set of challenges to separate and identify impurities and degradants. They are fully synthetic, short peptides that loop together into two constrained rings. This unique bicyclic shape allows them to mimic the target-binding capabilities of large antibodies while retaining the rapid tissue penetration and manufacturing advantages of small molecules.The presentation covers a broad approach to achieving separation with Bicycle® molecules and will touch on a large range of separation modes.<blockquote>Speaker: Andrew Feilden (Senior Director, Analytical Sciences, Bicycle Therapeutics)Dr Feilden joined Bicycle in October 2022 where he leads the CMC analytical science team. &nbsp;He has over 25 years' experience in the pharmaceutical industry having worked for both CROs and large pharma. &nbsp;His area of work has been around trace analysis and he is an expert in extractables and leachables. &nbsp;He completed his degree and DPhil at the University of York.</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Analysis of Bicycle® Molecules - Novel Medium Molecules

Analysis of Bicycle® Molecules: Novel Medium Molecules

Explore chromatographic separation modes for Bicycle® peptides. Learn systematic method development to analyze impurities and degradants

Analyzing Bicycle® Molecules: Separation & Impurities

<h4>Key Learning Points</h4><ul><li>Understand how to improve resolution with different stationary phases and mobile phase selectivity.&nbsp;</li><li>Learn key method development strategies for unknowns and complex mixtures.</li><li>Build LC methods that are reproducible, rugged, and transferable.</li><li>Review real examples of how to separate difficult compound classes.</li></ul><h4>Who Should Attend</h4><ul><li>Any LC users who want practical strategies for method development and optimization, or scientists who struggle with method reproducibility, ruggedness, or robustness.</li></ul><h4>One webinar, two viewing options</h4>We know you're busy, select a viewing session that works best for you.<h5>Viewing Options</h5>Session 1<ul><li>Tuesday, August 11, 2026</li><li>Los Angeles: 10:00 AM PT | New York: 1:00 PM EST</li><li>Mexico City: 12:00 PM CDT</li></ul>Session 2<ul><li>Wednesday, &nbsp;August 12, 2026</li><li>London: 9:00 AM BST | Berlin: 10:00 AM CEST&nbsp;</li><li>Mumbai: 1:30 PM IST</li></ul><blockquote>Speaker: Grace Guo (Senior Technical Specialist, Phenomenex)&nbsp;Grace Guo graduated from Johns Hopkins University with a Master’s degree in Material Science and Engineering. She joined Phenomenex Technical Team in 2017 providing technical support globally. With more than 9 years of experience in SPE, HPLC and GC, she delivered 90+ seminars and webinars globally covering food and environmental, clinical, pharma and biopharma industry.&nbsp;</blockquote>

Phenomenex: Unknowns Uncovered - Smart LC Strategies That Work

Unknowns Uncovered: Smart LC Strategies That Work

Master smart LC method development for unknown compounds. Learn Phenomenex strategies for better resolution, stationary phase selectivity, and ruggedness

Smart LC Strategies That Work

Therapeutic peptides are a fast-growing pharmaceutical drug class, but they present unique analytical challenges due to closely related process impurities, degradation products, and higher-order aggregate species. This webinar shows how complementary chromatographic workflows can be used to address those challenges, with examples spanning assay, related substances, stability-indicating analysis, and aggregate assessment. Real-world applications will cover aggregation profiles of key GLP-1 receptor agonists, including semaglutide, liraglutide, and tirzepatide.<h4>Key Learning Points</h4><ul><li>Understand the main analytical challenges involved in therapeutic peptide characterization, including closely related impurities, degradation products, and aggregate species.</li><li>Describe where reversed-phase chromatography and size exclusion chromatography fit across therapeutic peptide development workflows.&nbsp;</li><li>Learn how different reversed-phase selectivities were used for semaglutide assay, related substances, and stability/degradant studies, and understand how similar workflows can be adapted for other GLP-1 analogs, including tirzepatide.</li></ul><h4>Who Should Attend</h4><ul><li>Any liquid chromatography users working with, or interested in analyzing peptide therapeutics by HPLC. &nbsp;</li></ul><blockquote>Speaker: Sean Orlowicz (Principal Market Development Manager, Phenomenex)Sean Orlowicz has been working in the field of analytical chemistry for over 23yrs. After receiving his degree in Chemistry from the University of Illinois at Chicago, he started his career in large scale synthesis, using HPLC and GC techniques in reaction monitoring and purification. Sean took this experience to Phenomenex in 2003, working on site with clients worldwide on method development, troubleshooting and method transfer. Sean explored instrumentation for a few years, growing to specialize in LCMS, before returning to Phenomenex to help build and manage Phenomenex’s new applications laboratory. Since then, Sean has been driving innovation and growth though Business Development efforts, and most recently, in 2025 Sean has taken a Market Development Management role, spearheading our global efforts in Pharmaceuticals.&nbsp;</blockquote>

GLP-1: Assay to Aggregates

Master GLP-1 peptide analysis (semaglutide, tirzepatide). Discover RP-HPLC and SEC workflows for assay, related substances, degradation, and aggregates

GLP-1 Peptide Characterization: RP-HPLC & SEC Workflows

<h5>The Problem&nbsp;</h5>Most researchers developing LNPs are stuck in the shade with one-by-one LNP makers that either run costly single use consumables or need a whole extra run to clean the mixer and flowpath before pressing on with more formulations. They tie researchers to the lab bench, and often consume more reagents than you’d ideally want. At the end of the day, this means fewer samples processed, with more hands-on time and higher per experiment costs&nbsp;<h5>The Solution</h5>Sunscreen stops formulation labs from getting burnt by high costs, wasted reagents and laborious sample processing with 100% re-usable mixers and automated sample processing in a 96 well plate format. Using as little as 400 µL of sample per formulation and running a sample every 3-4 minutes, you get more formulations in less time from less material – all while you bask in the extra hours you thought you’d never get back.&nbsp;<h5>The Proof&nbsp;</h5>In this virtual seminar we’ll shed light on how Sunscreen’s automation enables fully hands-free LNP formulation, learn about the benefits of mixing LNPs with Sunnies, and check out the impact of Sunscreen vs one-by-one approaches.&nbsp;<blockquote>Presenter: Ben Knappett, PhD (Sr. Product Manager, The Sunny Suite, Unchained Labs)Ben Knappett is the Sr. Product Manager for the Sunny Suite, Unchained Labs’ automated microfluidic nanoparticle synthesis instruments, used primarily for LNP encapsulation in drug delivery, vaccines, and gene therapy applications. Ben received his MChem degree from Durham University, and completed a PhD in nanoparticle synthesis and characterization at the University of Cambridge. Ben previously worked for Particle Works as Head of Science and Applications, playing a key role in the development and commercialization of the instruments that now make up the Sunny Suite.</blockquote>

Unchained Labs: Make your LNP formulation workflow shine with Sunscreen

Make your LNP formulation workflow shine with Sunscreen

Automate LNP formulation with the Sunscreen system. Learn how 96-well plate automation and reusable mixers reduce reagent waste and speed up workflows.

Automated LNP Formulation Workflows: Sunscreen Platform

<div><div id="inner_content_body_text" data-content-id="394785">As PFAS regulations continue to evolve, laboratories face increasing pressure to detect a broader range of compounds while maintaining confidence, efficiency, and regulatory readiness. Traditional targeted methods remain essential, but growing awareness of emerging PFAS is driving the need for more comprehensive analytical strategies.Join us for a webinar exploring the latest advances in high-resolution mass spectrometry and intelligent data analysis that enable more comprehensive PFAS characterization in food and food-contact material testing.<h4>You will learn how to:</h4><ul><li>Expand PFAS detection beyond targeted analysis</li><li>Improve confidence in identifying known and emerging PFAS</li><li>Streamline PFAS identification with intelligent data analysis workflows</li><li>Stay ahead of evolving food safety testing requirements</li></ul>The webinar concludes with a live panel discussion moderated by Dr. Dasharath P. Oulkar (Thermo Fisher Scientific). Joined by invited customer speakers, the panel will explore the growing focus on PFAS in seafood, discussing current analytical challenges, regulatory considerations, and practical approaches to testing.English subtitles will be provided for this webinar and a Certificate of Attendance will be awarded to all attendees of the live webcast.<blockquote>Presenter: Jeremy Koelmel, Ph.D. (Associate Research Scientist in Epidemiology, Yale University)</blockquote><blockquote>Panel Discussion: Dasharath P. Oulkar, Ph.D. (Manager, FSSAI-Thermo Fisher Scientific Food Safety Solution Center, Ghaziabad, Thermo Fisher Scientific, India)Dr Dasharath P. Oulkar has 20+ years of experience in the area of food safety and quality testing and extensive technical experience various chromatography, mass spectrometry and sample preparation techniques required for food safety, authenticity and quality. He is currently working in collaboration with FSSAI to develop new methods and supporting various food laboratories across APJ.&nbsp;</blockquote></div></div>

Thermo Fisher Scientific: Future-Proofing Emerging Contaminants in Food Analysis

Future-Proofing Emerging Contaminants in Food Analysis

Future-proof your food testing lab against evolving PFAS regulations. Learn how high-resolution MS and intelligent workflows identify emerging contaminants

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