Today features networking opportunities, ash cloud chemistry, and the recognition of field-defining research. It’s a day for looking both back and ahead – with mass spectrometry very much leading the way in both directions.
Here are our top picks for today, have fun!
Henry Thomas, Deputy Editor
Today’s Must See
10:10-10:30am (Ballroom III): What do Volcanic Eruptions and Urban Fires Have in Common? Ash Clouds filled with BPCAs – Forensic Analysis by LC/QTOF-MS – Michael Thurman, Imma Ferrer and James Pyke
When the ash clouds settle, the real analytical work begins. Michael Thurman, Imma Ferrer and James Pyke present a comparison of ash from the Mt. St. Helens eruption in 1980 and recent urban wildfires, revealing shared families of sulfonated and chlorinated BPCAs formed through radical ion chemistry. Thanks to water samples preserved over 45 years ago, the team has carried out a rare forensic analysis of one of the most powerful volcanic events in modern U.S. history.
As Thurman and Ferrer told us back in 2020, referencing their “passion for discovery”: “Occasionally, we might hear colleagues say that it’s just a matter of measuring some compound in a water sample. In fact, the art of analysis (or an analytical scientist) is in turning a simple measurement into a whole new area of research – and we think that’s a noble pursuit indeed.”
12:00–1:00 pm (Poster-Exhibit Hall): Networking Session – Hispanics and Latinx in MS (Adriana Zardini Buzatto, Rafael Montenegro Burke)
In the afternoon, comes a networking event offering Hispanic and Latinx scientists in mass spectrometry a dedicated space to meet, exchange ideas, and support one another’s professional development. Open to scientists at all stages of their careers, the session aims to grow a more inclusive and connected MS community.
The founders of the group are clear-eyed about the challenge, as highlighted in Recalibrating Representation in MS: “There is a need to identify the existing barriers causing this and generate special programs able to enable the Hispanic community to have equal opportunities.”
“We need to give people the skills, the knowledge and the visibility to grow in their careers. I am a strong advocate of networking – scientists of every age should get connected with people that have a similar mission and purpose to you, especially within our community.”
4:45–5:30 pm (Hall AB): Biemann Medal Lecture + Research Awards Presentation (Joseph Loo)
Receiving the prestigious Biemann Medal this year is Power List alum Livia Eberlin, for her innovations within cancer diagnoses using mass spectrometry – an area of focus which she spoke to us about back in 2023. “I am extremely passionate about bringing mass spec to medical practice and enabling medical users with limited or no expertise in analytical chemistry to use mass spectrometry and its ability to gather incredible molecular information to make better decisions for their patients – especially patients with cancer.”
Tomorrow’s Planner
8:30–10:30 am (Hall AB): WOA am: Single Cell Omics (Kevin Clark)
2:30–4:30 pm (Ballroom III): WOG pm: Ion Mobility: Structure Determination & Applications (Erin Baker)
5:45–7:00 pm (Room 345-346): Forensics & Homeland Security: Emerging Technology for the Forensic Chemist (Patrick Fedick)
Thought of the Day
“Medical research would be extremely limited – if not unfeasible – without access to high quality analytical techniques, including mass spectrometry. Most critical research questions being investigated in biomedical research can only be answered by probing details of molecular processes in biological samples, which requires high-performance analytical measurements.” – Livia Eberlin
Aprés-Sci
If you’re looking to spend your evening in a calm and cultural setting, The Walters Art Museum is the perfect place to visit. Located in Baltimore’s Mount Vernon district, the museum is home to a stunning collection of art spanning centuries and continents; from ancient Egyptian artifacts to Renaissance masterpieces, there’s something for everyone.
The museum's peaceful ambiance allows you to take your time, admire the art, and reflect after a jam-packed day. Best of all, admission is free, so you can explore its many galleries without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re an art lover or just looking to unwind in a calm setting, The Walters offers an ideal evening escape.
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