Democratization of Mass Spectrometry Through Simplified Sample Preparation/Ionization for High Impact Applications

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Chemical analysis forms the basis for discovery in a wide variety of disciplines (e.g. environmental, medical and "omics" related research areas). The development of analysis systems that are faster, require less sample, and offer increased sensitivity and compatibility with a variety of matrices are critical to probing e.g. biological and chemical systems. My research program proposal leverages our expertise in microfluidics, mass spectrometry, and separation science and will focus on novel methods to enhance, simplify and ruggedise both sample preparation and introduction for mass spectrometry, and apply them to high impact applications. The proposed program will involve four research thrusts. The first will focus on the use of hydrophobic/hydrophilic patterned surfaces that self-wet to quickly yield micro-droplet arrays to carry out rapid sample preparation (tissue imaging, liquid chromatographic archiving and preconcentration). The second will focus on enhancing a novel mass spectrometric ambient ionization interface (liquid micro-junction surface sampling probe, LMJ-SSP) to rapidly sample the broader chemical space of complex biological samples using a "gradient at the tip approach". Both thrusts one and two seek to further democratise mass spectrometry, taking it from specialised, well-trained operators to more routine field use in public health, and hospital settings.  The third thrust will utilise the LMJ SSP to characterise biofilms formed on different relevant surfaces. Biofilms protect the microbial community from external pressures, including antibiotics, immune cells and drinking water disinfection. Trainees will work in the Drinking Water Distribution Laboratory (DWDL) at Queen's and at the newly minted Centre for Health Innovation (Kingston General Hospital) to assess biofilm growth on relevant surfaces. Contrastingly, the microbes that make up biofilms produce a number of bioactive compounds for mutualistic benefit and/or as a survival tool. In collaboration with Dr. Avena Ross's group at Queen's will be using novel MS tools to examine different species of Psuedoalteromonas grown on different scaffolds to search for novel biosynthetic compounds. The fourth thrust  involves working with Dr. Natalie Agar, Harvard School of Medicine, USA (Cancer) and Dr. Sabeth Verpoorte, Groningen, The Netherlands (Liver) and the Molecular Navigation Group at Queen's to develop LMJ-SSP and) as a rapid tissue imaging tool for intra-operative assessment of tumour margins and liver function. Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion will continue to be a priority of my research program. HQP will be required to participate in formal EDI training programs organised through the University Human Rights and Equity Office. HQP will benefit from working at discipline interfaces where researchers will be trained on tissue preparation, chemical/biochemical safety, and state-of-the-art electrochemical, mass spectrometric, microbiological and microfabrication techniques.