Experimental methodology in a core facility: Light scattering for preliminary experiments and final answers

As a core analytical facility, we are approached by users seeking our services with a large variety of samples. They usually have specific experiments/equipment in mind, frequently desiring to use the most intensive experimental techniques (in terms of sample, time, and money), when a simpler technique could give them the answers they require at a fraction of the cost. Often our recommended techniques include preliminary analysis with dynamic light scattering (DLS), followed by multi-angle light scattering (MALS), instead of analytical ultracentrifugation (AUC) or other high-maintenance biophysical techniques.

In this webinar expert speakers will explain, with a few examples, the methodology we have developed to save users time, sample, and money by prioritizing certain techniques for preliminary experiments. Many times the results from these ‘preliminary’ experiments are sufficient to provide the answers to the questions our researchers are asking.

Key learning objectives

• The fundamentals of light scattering theory, instrumentation and applications
• How light scattering instruments are used for fast, preliminary experiments before more intensive studies are attempted
• How often preliminary experiments provide all the answers needed for the scientific question
• Advantages (and some disadvantages) of Wyatt’s DLS and MALS instruments in relation to other techniques such as AUC.

Who should attend?

• Customers of biophysical core facilities or CROs who are considering light scattering in relation to other techniques
• Lab managers responsible for biophysical characterization who would like to optimize facility workflows, productivity, and use

Presenter: Peter Randolph (Director of Physical Biochemistry Facility, Florida State University)

Dr. Peter Randolph attended the University of Virginia for his undergraduate and graduate studies and Florida State University for his post-doctoral work. During his graduate studies, Dr. Randolph studied ancient Sm proteins using a variety of biophysical techniques (including Light Scattering) with a special focus on crystallography. Dr. Randolph is currently the Director of the Physical Biochemistry Facility at Florida State University, where he assists users in biophysical characterization and binding studies.

Presenter: Landry Bennett (Application Scientist, Wyatt Technology)

Landry earned his B.S. in Chemistry from the Georgia Institute of Technology in Dec 2013 where he researched in Dr. John Zhang’s nanoparticle synthesis and characterization lab. Upon graduating, Landry worked at Solvay Specialty Polymers as a research technician. He earned his M.S. in Analytical Chemistry at Michigan State University in 2016 under the guidance of Dr. Merlin Bruening. During his time there, Landry studied the targeted isolation of monoclonal antibodies from blood serum using membranes functionalized with peptide mimotopes. Landry joined Wyatt Technology in 2018 as an application scientist in the southeast region.

Presenter: Ellen Simms (SelectScience)

Ellen studied biological sciences at the University of the West of England, UK, before completing a master's in epidemiology from the University of Bristol. As a member of the Editorial team, she now plays an integral role in shaping the content on SelectScience.