Mass spectrometry
The course covers theory and key concepts in mass spectrometry (MS), as well as its applications to analytical problems. The course aims to provide a broad and in-depth knowledge of modern mass spectrometry.
This course covers the connection between mass spectrometry and separation methods, as well as qualitative and quantitative data analysis. The different mass spectrometry techniques are compared thoroughly and are evaluated for different applications and analytical problems. Students will gain both practical and theoretical knowledge.
The course covers the following subjects in mass spectrometry (MS):
- Principles and functions of common MS instruments and their components, such as ion source, analyzer, pump system and detector.
- Principles of different ionization methods, electron ionization (EI), chemical ionization (CI), MALDI, atmospheric pressure ionization (API), and mainly electrospray ionization (ESI).
- Principles of scanning and data acquisition methods and tandem MS.
- Basic fragmentation mechanisms for EI and tandem MS.
- Basic interpretation of MS spectra.
- Use of isotopes for structure investigation and generation of molecular formulas with MS.
- Explanation of central concepts such as "average mass", monoisotopic mass, mass resolution and mass accuracy.
- Fragmentation and sequencing of peptides.
- Coupling of chromatographic methods with MS.
- Quantification by MS.
- New MS methods such as ion mobility MS and non-target screening with MS (ambient MS).
Modules
After the course, students should be able to:
Part 1: Theory (8 ECTS)
- Describe and explain the principles of common types of mass spectrometers, their components, ionization methods, and different analyzers' separation of ions with respect to mass and charge.
- Describe and explain the principles of scanning and data acquisition methods, tandem MS and chromatographic coupling with MS.
- Describe and explain basic fragmentation mechanisms.
- Interpret typical mass spectra of small organic compounds.
- Suggest MS methods for gas chromatography (GC) and liquid chromatography (LC) separations.
Part 2: Laboratories (2 ECTS)
- Develop and optimize GC/MS and LC/MS methods for common, simple analytical problems.
- Evaluate and critically review results from both qualitative and quantitative MS.
Teaching Format
The teaching consists of lectures, seminars, exercises and laboratories.
Assessment
Theory: Written exam
Lab: Written reports
Examiner
Ulrika Nilsson
unils@su.se
The schedule will be available no later than one month before the start of the course.
We do not recommend print-outs as changes can occur. At the start of the course,
your department will advise where you can find your schedule during the course.
Note that the course literature can be changed up to two months before the start of the course.
Course reports are displayed for the three most recent course instances.
Course Coordinator
Ulrika Nilsson, email: unils@su.se
Chemistry Section & Student Affairs Office: chemistry@su.se
