Project overview
In its simplest terms mass spectrometry is a technique for weighing compounds or molecules. This is achieved through an initial stage where the neutral compound becomes charged. This is called ionisation, and once ionised, these species (ions) can be separated using magnetic and/or electric fields. For individual compounds analysis can be simple, but when dealing with mixtures other technologies are required. The mixtures need to be separated to identify the individual components; this is fundamentally separation science and there are a number of different ways to undertake this. The most common is called chromatography, which is a method of separating many different forms of chemical mixtures. Separations can be undertaken using gases or liquids. Ion mobility is another separation science technique, here individual species (ions) are separated because of differences in their shape. Combination of chromatography, ion mobility and mass spectrometry affords the most powerful modern day instrumentation for the analysis of complex mixtures. The intrinsic complexity of an ion mobility mass spectrometer, such as the Synapt G2Si (already housed in the mass spectrometry facility at Southampton Chemistry), requires a highly trained, dedicated, specialist operator to fully maximise the capacity and showcase the capability of this cutting edge scientific instrumentation. This proposal will fund a new two year full-time position for a specialist analyst. This person will initially design and implement generic experimental protocols and train existing staff and early adopter researchers. This research differs from the predominantly biological focus of other ion mobility mass spectrometers across Southampton and the UK. The new appointee will develop bespoke methods for advanced research projects, locally and regionally, and also engage other researchers by developing training activities and working with researchers to produce open-access publications.
