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Mass Spectrometry Techniques: LC-MS/MS and GC-MS

A hands on programme for analysts running mass spectrometry benches in South African and African environmental, food, forensic and pharmaceutical laboratories. Delegates learn how liquid and gas chromatography couple to mass detectors, how to read spectra, build acquisition methods and confirm the identity and concentration of trace compounds in complex sample matrices.

What you will be able to do

  • Explain the principles of ionisation, mass separation and detection in LC-MS/MS and GC-MS.
  • Set up acquisition methods for target compounds using multiple reaction monitoring.
  • Interpret mass spectra and fragmentation patterns to confirm compound identity.
  • Optimise chromatographic separation to reduce matrix interference and ion suppression.
  • Apply calibration, internal standards and quality control checks to quantify trace analytes.
  • Diagnose common instrument faults affecting sensitivity and reproducibility.

Course outline

  1. 01Fundamentals of mass spectrometry
  2. 02Ionisation sources and mass analysers
  3. 03Coupling chromatography to the mass detector
  4. 04Building and tuning acquisition methods
  5. 05Spectral interpretation and confirmation
  6. 06Matrix effects and ion suppression
  7. 07Quantification and quality control
  8. 08Routine maintenance and fault finding

Who should attend

Laboratory analysts, chemists and technicians operating or planning to operate mass spectrometry instruments in testing and research laboratories.

Dates, venues and fees

DatesVenueDaysFeeCalendar
17 to 19 Aug 2026Kampala3US$1,500
24 to 26 Aug 2026Dar es Salaam3US$1,500
31 Aug to 2 Sep 2026Pretoria3R13,000
7 to 9 Sep 2026Cape Town3R13,000
21 to 23 Sep 2026Online3US$900
28 to 30 Sep 2026Mozambique3US$1,500
5 to 7 Oct 2026Cairo3US$1,500
12 to 14 Oct 2026Accra3US$1,500
19 to 21 Oct 2026Lusaka3US$1,500
26 to 28 Oct 2026Kigali3US$1,500
2 to 4 Nov 2026Nairobi3US$1,500
9 to 11 Nov 2026Durban3R13,000
16 to 18 Nov 2026Johannesburg3R13,000
30 Nov to 2 Dec 2026Mauritius3US$1,500
7 to 9 Dec 2026Dubai3US$1,500
14 to 16 Dec 2026Lagos3US$1,500
21 to 23 Dec 2026Harare3US$1,500

Fees are per delegate. South African venues are priced in rand; other locations and online in US dollars. Fees exclude 15% VAT where applicable. Group bookings of three or more delegates from the same organisation qualify for a reduced rate; contact us for a quotation.

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