This award will support the purchase of a high resolution time-of-flight gas chromatograph mass spectrometer for a variety of applications in atmospheric sciences, oceanography, and biomedical sciences. The instrumentation will be capable of investigating complex mixtures of trace organic compounds present in the environment or relevant to other research. The instrument will provide improved methods of separation of compounds and characterization of complex mixtures, as well as increased sensitivity to trace concentrations. It will enhance research at the Miami Coral Gables and Medical campuses, and at Nova Southeastern University, as well as provide training opportunities for graduate and undergraduate students as part of course offerings.
Normal 0 false false false EN-US KO X-NONE Being able to reliably measure and identify the trace-components of environmental or biological samples is important for developing a more complete scientific understanding of the natural environment and health related issues. We were interested in taking a newer analytical technique - an advanced form of mass spectrometry - and applying it to complex issues including atmospheric composition and identification of melanoma chemical signatures. The research supported by this award included: 1) the purchase of a high-resolution quadrupole/time-of-flight mass spectrometer and gas chromatograph (GC/QTOF) and 2) the testing of this instrumentation by analyzing air samples collected during a biomass burning exercise and analyzing headspace above melanoma skin tissue. Each of these sample types had been analyzed using conventional quadrupole mass spectrometry and gas chromatography (GC/MS) which allowed us to compare the techniques. Our research showed the GC/QTOF to be a powerful technology that permitted the collection of accurate mass data for a range of samples. This data provides the critical information necessary for determination of molecular composition and chemical component identification. The new instrumentation will be a valuable resource for advanced research projects and for training of post-doctoral scientists and both graduate and undergraduate students.
