Principles of Mass Spectrometry

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Physics, chemistry, bio-chemistry, and all their various subdisciplines find their way into the general topic of mass spectrometry. Experimentation starts with a good understanding of the physics of the technology. In this course students will acquire core knowledge and skills to understand and engineer a complete mass spectrometer. Additionally, students will develop in-depth knowledge of the theory, physics, chemistry and practical implementation of modern mass spectrometry systems. They will dissect the details on the different ionization mechanisms and the effect these have on the nature and type of detected molecules. Students will gain insight in the manipulation of molecules, ions and electrons and their interaction using electric, radiofrequency and magnetic fields to understand the physical, chemical and biological properties of a molecule. They will also apprehend the achievable molecular resolution and the detailed approaches for molecular structural analysis. The design and construction of different ion sources, ion optical systems and mass spectrometers will be discussed to provide the students with the competences to utilize and modify innovative MS-based instruments. A key learning objective is the analysis of mass spectral data for compound identification with spectral libraries and databases. Each course element will be illustrated using everyday examples of applied mass spectrometry across the scientific disciplines.