Abstract
The 25th edition of the International Reid Bioanalytical Forum (REID) was held at the Cambridge Belfry (Cambourne, UK) between 4 and 7 September 2023 and hosted approximately 100 delegates, the majority of whom were attending the event for their first time.
REID encourages early-career researchers to present their work and have a bursary program to help provide them support. At the 2023 event, REID welcomed 15 bursary winners to provide them with the opportunity to participate in their first international meeting, network with their peers and make their first oral, or poster presentation. The bursary winners also had the opportunity to interview with the Bioanalysis journal and their responses to the interview questions are transcribed below in this second part of two.
Olga Begou
Please could you briefly introduce yourself, including your current affiliation & role?
My name is Dr Olga Begou, and I am an analytical chemist, PhD. I earned my bachelor's degree in chemistry from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTh), Greece, in 2013 and went on to complete my master's degree in analytical chemistry – quality control in 2015. In 2020, I successfully obtained my PhD in analytical chemistry (Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, AUTh), where my research focused on the development and validation of analytical methods for the determination of drugs and metabolites in biological samples. For 3 years, I served as a postdoctoral researcher and an integral member of the BIOMIC_AUTh team, where I worked as an analytical chemist in several research projects, with regard to targeted and untargeted metabolic profiling of different biological matrices of human and animal cohorts and food samples, using advanced analytical platforms, such as LC–MS/MS, LC–quadrupole TOF–MS and GC–MS. Currently, I am CEO of ThetaBiomarkers, a very new spinoff of AUTh, where we provide deep-tech metabolomics and bioanalysis services for a plethora of biomarkers and drugs, regarding health, wellness and lifestyle using technologies that are based on state-of-the-art hyphenated MS.
What are your current research focuses?
My work primarily centers on metabolomics and lipidomics-based studies, and I'm dedicated to advancing the field of analytical chemistry. My research currently focuses on developing new bioanalytical solutions for the accurate determination and quantification of a plethora of biomarkers in alternative matrices, such as dried blood and dried urine spots. Dried matrix spot is an easy and safe sampling technique that offers several advantages compared with traditional liquid sample collection methods, and it is particularly suitable for sample collection, among neonates or children, the elderly, and patients requiring frequent and repetitive testing.
What are the next steps in your research?
A noticeable trend is the integration of LC–MS technology into clinical laboratories. Building on this trend, my next steps focus on innovation and on developing new bioanalytical solutions that highlight the potential of at-home biofluid microsampling for health and wellness monitoring, that can be applied to everyday clinical practice. This shift toward at-home biofluid microsampling aligns perfectly with the growing interest in decentralized healthcare and personalized medicine. By making health monitoring more accessible and patient-centric, we can potentially revolutionize how we approach healthcare. As I move forward with these developments, my primary focus is on ensuring that such at-home biofluid microsampling solutions are not only convenient but also highly reliable, accurate and compliant with regulatory standards.
How has the Reid bursary helped you?
The Reid bursary award was a significant financial support that gave me the opportunity to attend the 25th International Reid Bioanalytical Forum (REID). Beyond the financial aspect, the Reid bursary also offered me a unique opportunity for professional development. Attending this conference allowed me to access global knowledge and stay updated on the latest developments in bioanalysis. I had the privilege of learning from experts and connecting with peers from around the world. Also, I had the opportunity to present part of my research, leading to constructive feedback, as well as valuable collaborations and networking.
What can REID & the wider bioanalytical community do to help early-career researchers?
Supporting early-career researchers is vital for the continued growth and innovation in the field of bioanalysis. First and foremost, financial assistance is a cornerstone of support. Providing scholarships, support for publications and travel awards can significantly alleviate the financial strain that early-career researchers often face. Also, mentorship programs are a crucial element in early-career development. Establishing mentorship initiatives that pair early-career researchers with experienced professionals can provide invaluable guidance, share insights and help navigate the intricacies of a scientific career. In addition to this, equipping early-career researchers with the necessary skills is essential, and training and workshops serve as powerful tools for skills development. Career development resources and available information on career planning, job opportunities and professional development ensure that early-career researchers are well-prepared to make informed decisions about their career paths. Lastly, recognition through awards and honors within the bioanalytical community not only boosts confidence but also enhances career prospects, ultimately creating a cohesive support system for early-career researchers and ensuring their success in the field.
Artemis Lioupi
Please could you briefly introduce yourself, including your current affiliation & role?
Chemist (AUTh) experienced (PhD) in analytical chemistry and specifically in method development for metabolomics-based studies with an in-depth experience in GC–MS, LC–MS/MS and LC–TIMS/TOF–MS instrumentation techniques. My current field of interest is focused on bioanalysis and foodomics and specifically on the development of new methods for targeted and untargeted metabolomics studies and biomarkers discovery. I am currently a research scientist at the BIOMIC interdisciplinary laboratory at the AUTh (https://biomic.web.auth.gr/).
What are your current research focuses?
My interests are on the development of LC–MS and GC–MS methodologies for metabolite profiling and bioanalysis with emphasis on the use of new separation media, for example, new ultra-performance LC columns for very polar molecules. Also, the application of novel techniques such as trapped or cyclic ion mobility for the separation of isomers and application of blood microsampling technologies for the determination of drugs and metabolites.
What are the next steps in your research?
Work at the limits of analytical chemistry such as on new rapid microbore LC separations to attain significant reduction in solvent usage, waste and run time. In addition, application of microsampling techniques in clinical research and diagnostic applications for minimal invasiveness, reduced logistical costs and biohazard risks. The next steps in my research also include collaboration with researchers from different countries and attendance to international conferences to broaden my network and gain exposure to diverse perspectives and methodologies.
How has the Reid bursary helped you?
The Reid bursary provided me with the chance to travel to Cambridge and present my research findings through oral presentation. It made it possible for me to meet other researchers, academics and professionals in the field and build connections that can lead to collaborative research opportunities. The REID meeting assisted me, as a young researcher, to develop new skills and knowledge, gain experience in presenting my work to a professional audience and effectively communicate my research findings. Overall, the Reid bursary is a great opportunity for young researchers by reducing financial barriers, and facilitating personal and professional growth.
What can REID & the wider bioanalytical community do to help early-career researchers?
REID and the wider bioanalytical community could support early-career researchers by organizing seminars and hands-on workshops to enhance their presentation skills, grant writing and other critical topics. In addition, the granting of travel awards and reduced registration fees for international recognized conferences gives young researchers the opportunity to travel without financial barriers, to present their research, to meet experienced researchers and to gain new knowledge in their field of interest. A further step would be to give more opportunities to young researchers to publish in bioanalytical journals and to provide guidance on publishing research findings and navigating the publication process.
Georgina Page
Please could you briefly introduce yourself, including your current affiliation & role?
I am Georgina Page from De Montfort University (Leicester, UK); I am in my fourth year of a part-time PhD and am a research assistant.
What are your current research focuses?
My current area of research is focused on how exogenous factors, particularly from food consumption, can affect metabolite levels measured within saliva and how fasting periods for sample collection are often not adequate. This analysis is being carried out using 1H NMR spectroscopy.
What are the next steps in your research?
My next steps are to look at my data using statistical analysis to highlight the most affected changes.
How has the Reid bursary helped you?
The Reid bursary gave me the opportunity to take part in the ChromSoc Bioanalytical Forum hosted in September 2023 where I presented my current work. The costs of the hotel and events were all covered of which I would not have been able to afford by myself and I recommend any new researchers to apply for the bursary in the future.
What can REID & the wider bioanalytical community do to help early-career researchers?
The event was great for networking and socializing with people who work in a similar area to yourself so you can share ideas. It also introduced me to the different scientific roles that may be available outside of academia. To start with I was nervous to present at this conference as it was my first one, but everyone was very welcoming and kind that it made me feel comfortable to share my work.
Shwan Ahmed
Please could you briefly introduce yourself, including your current affiliation & role?
I am Shwan Ahmed, a final-year PhD student in the Roy group at the Centre for Metabolomics Research at the University of Liverpool. Originally from Iraq, I have a background in analytical chemistry, having pursued Chemistry for my undergraduate studies in Iraq. Subsequently, I moved to the UK and completed my MSc in analytical science for industry at Keele University.
What are your current research focuses?
My research primarily focuses on employing metabolomics to investigate infectious diseases. Specifically, we employ a variety of spectroscopy techniques and MS-based metabolomics in critically ill children with sepsis. This involves classifying bacteria relevant to sepsis and evaluating antimicrobial resistance under various antibiotic exposures.
What are the next steps in your research?
My next step of research involves the direct analysis of plasma from different patient cohorts to assess whether metabolomics can resolve between different scenarios and thus serve to identify specific chemical markers for use in the clinical environment. Subsets of patient will test the ability of metabolomics to distinguish 1) confirmed bacterial sepsis from patients without sepsis, 2) bacterial and viral infections apart, and 3) antibiotic profile without recourse to bacterial culture-based testing. The outcome will be a set of metabolite biomarkers for rapid diagnostics.
How has the Reid bursary helped you?
The Reid bursary has assisted me in effectively presenting my work as a PhD student and analytical chemist to a broader audience, allowing me to receive valuable insights and perspectives. Beyond providing financial support for attending the REID conference in Cambridge, this assistance has been beneficial for both my academic and professional growth. It has not only motivated me personally but also garnered recognition within my field. Furthermore, the bursary has facilitated networking opportunities, connecting me with professionals who have made noteworthy contributions to both science and industry in my specific field.
What can REID & the wider bioanalytical community do to help early-career researchers?
Reid has been incredibly supportive of emerging researchers through their bursary program. While I appreciate the assistance received so far, I believe there's an opportunity for greater impact by fostering increased collaboration with the industry. I am particularly interested in expanding networking opportunities and exploring potential collaborations that would facilitate meaningful connections with established professionals. This, I believe, would not only enhance our research endeavors but also contribute to our professional development.
Svenja Stiltz
Please could you briefly introduce yourself, including your current affiliation & role?
My name is Svenja Stiltz and I am a biochemist by training. I studied chemistry in my bachelor's degree and subsequently completed a master's degree in biochemistry. Then I started my career at Nuvisan one and a half years ago working in bioanalytics, developing and validating LC–MS/MS methods.
What are your current research focuses?
I am focusing on the development of bioanalytic methods for small molecules using LC–MS/MS and validation according to current guidelines.
What are the next steps in your research?
My next steps will remain in the area of method development and validation, where I will be involved in more complex projects like multianalyte and new modality assays.
How has the Reid bursary helped you?
Reid helped me to make contacts with very nice people who work in the same field. It was also a very interesting and great experience for me to attend a conference and give a talk in front of a large audience for the first time.
What can REID & the wider bioanalytical community do to help early-career researchers?
For me, this support was just right to be able to have such an experience.
Rebecca Dowell
Please could you briefly introduce yourself, including your current affiliation & role?
I'm Rebecca Dowell, a research scientist and a project manager at BioApp Solutions.
What are your current research focuses?
At BioApp Solutions, we develop and validate LC–MS methods for various compounds including peptides, proteins, lipids and oligos in the early stages of discovery through to regulatory analysis. In addition, we develop analytical methods for biomarkers to support these new drug modalities. The work we perform typically has a challenging analytical background. We utilize the specificity of LC–MS detection to provide advantages over traditional methodologies.
What are the next steps in your research?
We are optimizing standard bioanalytical method workflow starting points which can be applied to peptide, protein, lipid and oligo drugs and associated biomarkers. The goal is that these standard workflows are robust and can be easily transferred between laboratories. These workflows can include some or all of the following: SPE, sample pretreatment, stabilization, proteolytic enzyme digestion, immunocapture clean-up and differential mobility separation.
How has the Reid bursary helped you?
It allowed me to attend the forum and meet people within the bioanalytical community. I was able to present a poster on a recent project which gave me confidence and offered me some recognition within the field.
What can REID & the wider bioanalytical community do to help early-career researchers?
Provide training and support to universities: university courses do not reflect our industry. Bioanalysis is generally not a defined topic at universities. Provide more training courses/conferences that early-careers can attend without relying on significant financial support from their company/organizations. They allow early-career scientists to increase networking within the community, keep up-to-date with current topics and get the chance to present their work.
Financial disclosure
The authors have no financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.
Writing disclosure
No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.
Interview disclosure
The opinions expressed in this interview are those of each interviewee and do not necessarily reflect the views of Expert Publishing Medicine.
Competing interests disclosure
The authors have no competing interests or relevant affiliations with any organization or entity with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, stock ownership or options and expert testimony.