MRI: Acquisition of a Mass Spectrometer System for Undergraduate Research at the University of St. Thomas and Associated Colleges of the Twin Cities

University Of St. Thomas, Saint Paul MN

Investigators

Abstract

The University of St. Thomas (UST) will acquire an ion trap liquid chromatograph mass spectrometer (ion trap LC-MS) system with this award from the Major Research Instrumentation program. The instrument will enable researchers at the Associated Colleges of the Twin Cities (UST, Macalester College, Augsburg College, and Hamline University) to study: i.) the synthesis of novel photochromic compounds, isotopically-labeled drugs, and new antibiotics; ii.) the synthesis and characterization of novel cyclophanes and transition metal-mediated macrocyclic and cage complexes; iii.) photodegradation products of antibiotics in natural waters; iv.) the chemistry of atmospheric aerosols and systems being monitored using microdialysis probes. Other senior personnel will utilize the instrument for research in materials chemistry, organic synthesis, forensic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, neuroscience, and plant physiology. Mass spectroscopy is a standard tool used by chemists to identify and characterize materials and chemical species by accurate measurement of their mass and fragmentation patterns as they are vaporized and ionized in the instrument. Liquid chromatography is an isolation technique that separates a complex mixture into individual components before introduction to the mass spectrometer. This acquisition will be used hands-on by undergraduate students in research projects. Students will also be introduced to the analysis technique in laboratory course instruction.