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

Gary Siuzdak. Mass Spectrometry in Biotechnology.

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

McLafferty and Turecek. Interpretation of Mass Spectra.

Summative

Summative assessment description