Grant: Research Tools and Instruments

Mass spectrometry is a technique that many scientists use to analyze and identify chemicals and biochemicals. As new chemical and biochemical materials are designed, prepared and isolated, more capable techniques are required to identify them. Towards this goal, the ever-maturing mass spectrometry field provides improved modes of analysis, and requires state-of-the art equipment.<br /> <br /> Funds are requested for a multiple-function mass spectrometer to satisfy a hands-on bioanalytical research community and Canada-wide scientists in need of for-service small molecule mass spectrometry data for their research.<br /> <br /> The requested mass spectrometer will replace an unusable mass spectrometer at Dalhousie, and simultaneously augment the capabilities that it provides.<br /> <br /> This application is submitted by Dr. Alison Thompson, director of the Dalhousie Chemistry Mass Spectrometry facility for &gt;12 years. The application is submitted on behalf of the research community that uses the facility ( including the ten co-applicants, from several universities). Over the past four years the existing/failing instrument has served the needs of &gt;40 research groups at 15 institutions in 5 provinces: the need to replace this failing instrument is urgent.<br /> <br /> The requested mass spectrometer will enable exact mass measurements of small compounds, (bio)macromolecules and (bio)molecular complexes. The equipment will enable trainees to acquire hands-on tandem high-resolution mass spectral data, a first at Dalhousie. These features will dramatically advance the research capacity of synthetic, medicinal and analytical chemists, as well as chemical oceanographers and chemical biologists at Dalhousie and beyond.<br /> <br /> The requested mass spectrometer will be located in the Dalhousie Chemistry Mass Spectrometry Facility. This facility has been operating for &gt;12 years, and is supported by a dedicated full-time Dalhousie staff technician, as well as through the provision of specialized laboratory space and an office. A robust long-term operating model will be immediately on hand to manage and maintain the requested mass spectrometer and thus make the instrument reliably available for trainees needing to acquire high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry data for their research projects.<br /> <br /> The requested mass spectrometer will enable research trainees to learn how to use modern mass spectrometry equipment to further research goals in areas such as:<br /> &bull; inventing improved catalysts for green technology;<br /> &bull; exploring novel structural diversity as a fundamental tool for drug discovery; <br /> &bull; understanding the ocean&rsquo;s nutrient eco-system; <br /> &bull; characterizing the molecular behaviour of biomolecules such as proteins and amino acids;<br /> &bull; identifying biomarkers for early disease detection; <br /> &bull; characterizing mechanisms of chemical reactions; and<br /> &bull; synthesizing new functional materials. <br /> <br /> <br />