Mass Spectrometry: Theory and Application

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Determine appropriate ionisation technique and instrument type for analysis
• Have raised awareness of mass spectrometry applications areas
• Interpret, understand and critically evaluate mass spectrometry data
• Have an awareness of the principles of advanced mass spectrometry techniques

1. Tenets of Mass Spectrometry

• Ionisation techniques
• Sample Introduction
• Analyser types
• Low and high mass resolution

2. Advanced Mass Spectrometry

• MS/MS
• Hyphenated techniques
• Large molecule MS

3. Applications of Mass Spectrometry

• Structural elucidation
• Qualitative MS
• Quantitative MS
• Speciation
• Isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS)
• ‘Omics’

4. Practical techniques

• Sample preparation and data acquisition
• Strengths and limitations of automation
• Data Interpretation
• Reporting data in literature/reports

Teaching and learning methods

Teaching Methods

• Lectures (two per week: a mixture of plenary lectures and small-group problem solving workshops)
• Practical workshops (spaced evenly through the semester, involving interaction with the instrumentation and data interpretation in small groups)
• Directed reading
• Bb online support

Learning Methods

Independent study, student motivated peer-group study, student driven tutor support.

Resources & Reading list

Textbooks

McLafferty and Turecek. Interpretation of Mass Spectra.

De Hoffmann and Stroobart. Mass Spectrometry – Principals and Applications.

Gary Siuzdak. Mass Spectrometry in Biotechnology.

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.