The Pittcon Podcast

Dominic Gostick, CTO of PerkinElmer, discusses the company's recent transformations and innovations in scientific instrumentation. He highlights the launch of new products like the QSight® 500 and the Spotlight™ Aurora FTIR Microscope, emphasizing their applications in environmental and food safety testing.You can read the written interview at:https://www.azom.com/article.aspx?ArticleID=24384Find out more about Pittcon 2026!https://www.pittcon.orgChapters0:00 Introduction to Perkin Elmer's Transformation4:25 New Product Launches: QSight® 5008:40 Spotlight™ Aurora Microscope and Applications13:45 Focus on Usability and AI17:25 Sustainability and Performance18:36 Pittcon, Networking and Industry Trends#perkinelmer #massspectrometry #science #microscopy #lcms #laboratory #chemistry #analyticalscience #pittcon

Kickstarting the new series of the Pittcon Podcast, Sir Professor Cato T. Laurencin discusses his pioneering work in regenerative engineering, a field he founded that combines principles from various disciplines to create new ways to regenerate tissues and organs. He shares insights into his career journey, the development of the Laurencin-Cooper ligament, and the ambitious HEAL Project aimed at regenerating a human limb by 2030.You can read the written interview at:https://www.news-medical.net/news/202...Find out more about Pittcon 2026!https://www.pittcon.org

In this insightful episode, we welcome Dr. Vicki Grassian, a distinguished professor and expert in environmental chemistry, to discuss the critical role of environmental interfaces in shaping our world. From their effects on health and climate to their impact on ecosystems, Dr. Grassian sheds light on the unseen but powerful interactions happening at the microscopic level.Understanding Environmental Interfaces:Dr. Grassian explains how surfaces and interfaces in the environment—such as atmospheric aerosols, soil particles, and water contaminants—play a crucial role in chemical reactions that affect air quality, climate change, and human health.A Journey in Environmental Chemistry:She shares her path into environmental science, the challenges she has faced in her research, and how curiosity and persistence have driven her to push the boundaries of scientific understanding.The Power of Spectroscopy:We dive into the significance of spectroscopy as a tool for analyzing complex environmental systems, providing key insights into chemical processes that influence the world around us.Recognition & Scientific Contributions:Dr. Grassian reflects on being honored with the prestigious Pittsburgh Spectroscopy Award and how such recognition fuels further innovation and collaboration in the field.The Role of Conferences in Advancing Science:A discussion on how major scientific gatherings, like Pittcon, contribute to the exchange of ideas, foster collaborations, and inspire the next generation of environmental chemists.Join us for this engaging conversation as Dr. Grassian unpacks the hidden chemistry shaping our environment and the scientific tools that help us understand it.Register for Pittcon 2025 in Boston!⁠https://www.pittcon.org/registerChapters00:00 Understanding Environmental Interfaces02:54 Challenges in Environmental Chemistry Research05:56 Significant Findings in Atmospheric Aerosols08:56 Advancements in Spectroscopic Techniques11:56 The Role of Spectroscopy in Environmental Chemistry15:04 Recognition and Impact of the Pittsburgh Spectroscopy Award18:01 The Importance of Conferences in Scientific Advancement#chemistry #environmental #environmentalscience #aerosols #healthimpacts #spectroscopy #pittcon

In this enlightening episode, we are joined by Dr. Rabi Ann Musah, a Professor of Chemistry at the University at Albany, State University of New York. Dr. Musah shares her groundbreaking research on distinguishing between hemp and marijuana, two varieties of Cannabis sativa that are chemically similar yet legally distinct.Dr. Musah explains the primary difference between hemp and marijuana lies in their tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content. While both belong to the Cannabis sativa species, hemp contains 0.3% or less THC, making it non-psychoactive and legal under federal law, whereas marijuana has higher THC levels and remains a controlled substance. The conversation delves into the difficulties faced by law enforcement and forensic laboratories in distinguishing between hemp and marijuana, given their similar appearances and chemical compositions. Current methods require quantifying THC levels, a process that is both time-consuming and resource-intensive. Dr. Musah discusses her development of a rapid field test that targets metabolomic differences between the two plants. This novel approach utilizes ambient ionization mass spectrometry combined with chemometric analysis to provide real-time, accurate differentiation without extensive sample preparation. Dr. Musah shares also insights into ongoing research and the potential for developing similar testing methods for other controlled substances, as well as the importance of collaboration between academic researchers and law enforcement to address emerging challenges in forensic science.Register for Pittcon 2025 in Boston!⁠https://www.pittcon.org/registerChapters00:00 Understanding Cannabis Analysis in Forensics08:05 Challenges in Differentiating Hemp and Marijuana11:04 Revolutionizing Cannabis Analysis with DART-HRMS13:52 The Role of Statistical Analysis in Cannabis Research18:05 Mentorship and Community in Scientific Research#cannabisscience #chemistry #hempanalysis #cannabisanalysis#forensicscience #statisticalanalysis #dartms #pittcon

In this episode of the Pittcon Podcast, we sit down with Jonathan V. Sweedler, the James R. Eiszner Family Endowed Chair in Chemistry at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, for an in-depth conversation about his extensive career in the sciences. A leading figure in analytical chemistry, Professor Sweedler shares insights into professional development, research innovations, and the importance of mentoring in the scientific community.Sweedler’s research focuses on developing cutting-edge analytical methods to study complex microenvironments, particularly within the nervous system. His pioneering techniques in mass spectrometry and microfluidics enable the detailed analysis of neurotransmitters and neuropeptides at the single-cell level, helping to unravel the intricate chemical dialogues that drive learning, memory, and behavior.Beyond the lab, Professor Sweedler reflects on the challenges of managing diverse research projects, navigating career transitions, and fostering collaboration within research teams. As the Editor-in-Chief of Analytical Chemistry, he also discusses the evolving landscape of the field and the role of scientific publications in shaping the future of research.Additionally, Sweedler shares his experiences attending Pittcon over the years and the value of professional development tracks at conferences. Tune in as we explore his journey, the future of analytical chemistry, and the impact of fostering mentorship and collaboration in science.Chapters00:00 Navigating Career Transitions in Science03:05 Research Journey and Innovations in Metabolomics05:49 Challenges in Research and Project Management09:04 Mentoring and Fostering Collaboration11:54 The Importance of Professional Development15:08 Reflections on Pittcon and Its ImpactRegister for Pittcon 2025 in Boston!⁠https://www.pittcon.org/register#careerdevelopment #research #metabolomics #analyticalchemistry #pittcon #proteomics #massspectrometry #microfluidics

In this episode of the Pittcon Podcast, we interview Amara Holder, a research mechanical engineer at the US Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of Research and Development. We discuss the chemistry of wildfire emissions, particularly in urban interfaces. We explore the unique chemical characteristics of urban fires, advancements in monitoring technologies, community-driven solutions for smoke exposure, and the challenges faced in measuring emissions. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding wildfire emissions for public health and future research directions.Amara Holder's research primarily focuses on pollutant emissions from combustion sources and their subsequent impacts on human health and the environment, with a particular emphasis on wildland fires.Key Research Areas🔥 Pollutant EmissionsDr. Holder investigates the types and quantities of pollutants released during combustion processes, particularly in the context of wildland fires. This includes analyzing the chemical composition of emissions and their potential health risks. ☣️ Toxic Metals in Wildland FiresA significant aspect of her research is the fate of toxic metals during wildland fires. This includes understanding how these metals are released into the atmosphere and their subsequent deposition in various environments, particularly in areas where wildland and urban interfaces overlap.🌎 Health and Environmental ImpactsDr. Holder's work aims to elucidate the relationship between pollutant emissions from wildland fires and their impacts on public health, particularly in vulnerable populations. This research is crucial for developing strategies to mitigate health risks associated with exposure to these pollutants.Chapters00:00 Understanding Urban Fire Chemistry03:07 Key Findings on Wildfire Emissions05:49 Advancements in Emission Monitoring Technologies08:55 Mitigating Smoke Exposure: Community Solutions11:54 Challenges in Measuring Emissions from WUI Fires15:00 Chemical Differences in Urban vs. Natural Fires18:03 Future Research Directions and Global Perspectives21:03 Reflections on the Scientific CommunityRegister for Pittcon 2025 in Boston!⁠https://www.pittcon.org/register#wildfires #urbanfires #emissions #airquality #toxicology #environmentalprotection #smokeexposure #environmentalhealth #pittcon #pollution #fire

John R. Yates III, Ph.D., is the Ernest W. Hahn Professor in the Departments of Molecular Medicine and Neurobiology at Scripps Research in La Jolla, California. He is renowned for his pioneering work in mass spectrometry-based proteomics, significantly advancing the analysis of complex protein mixtures.Dr. Yates earned his B.A. in Zoology (1980) and M.S. in Chemistry (1983) from the University of Maine, followed by a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Virginia in 1987. His career has been marked by the development of innovative techniques, notably the algorithm for automated peptide sequencing and Multidimensional Protein Identification Technology (MudPIT), both of which have become fundamental tools in proteomics research. His extensive publication record includes over 1,000 scientific papers, reflecting his profound impact on the field. In addition to his research, Dr. Yates serves as the editor-in-chief of the Journal of Proteome Research, contributing to the dissemination of significant advancements in proteomics. His ongoing work continues to influence the development of proteomic technologies and their application to complex biological questions.Register for Pittcon 2025 in Boston!⁠https://www.pittcon.org/register#proteomics #massspectrometry #Neuroproteomics #SingleCellProteomics #PostTranslationalModifications #BiomarkerDiscovery #AIinProteomics #ProteinResearch

Dr. Susan Olesik is a prominent figure in the field of chemistry, particularly known for her innovative work in analytical chemistry and mass spectrometry. Her research focuses on the development of advanced analytical techniques to enhance the understanding of complex chemical systems. Dr. Olesik's work emphasizes the importance of nanotechnology and surface chemistry, exploring how these areas can be leveraged to improve the sensitivity and specificity of analytical methods.One of her notable contributions includes the application of nanoparticle-based sensors for environmental monitoring and biomedical applications. These sensors are designed to detect trace levels of pollutants and biomarkers, showcasing the potential of nanotechnology in addressing real-world challenges.In addition to her experimental work, Dr. Olesik is dedicated to education and mentorship, striving to inspire the next generation of scientists. Her commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive scientific community is evident in her outreach efforts and collaborative research initiatives.Listeners can expect to gain insights into the intersection of chemistry and technology, as well as the implications of Dr. Olesik's research on future scientific advancements.For more information on Dr. Olesik's work and its impact, tune in to this episode!Register for Pittcon 2025 in Boston!⁠https://www.pittcon.org/register#analyticalchemistry #chemistry #massspectrometry #proteomics #metabolomics #nanotechnology #surfacechemistry #nanomedicine #nanotechnology