Implementation Workshop: TOF/QTOF Mass Spectrometry for Identification, Screening, and Confirmation in Forensic Toxicology and Chemistry

Wednesday, October 18, 2023 | 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM Eastern

Time-of-Flight and Quadrupole Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (TOF/QTOF-MS) systems can be a powerful, versatile analytical technology for forensic science service providers (FSSPs) with proper setup and use. Even for forensic laboratories fortunate enough to have the budget to consider expanding their capabilities with TOF/QTOF-MS instrumentation, full implementation can still be a challenge without experience or expertise using TOF/QTOF-MS systems. Challenges can include conflicting vendor information or a lack of information specific to FSSP needs related to available upgrades, hardware, and software.

This virtual workshop aims to provide guidance to FSSPs involved in the planning, purchase, use, or quality assurance surrounding TOF/QTOF-MS instrumentation. The speakers for this workshop were selected with the goal of curating a panel of subject matter experts with many combined years of user experience to provide a multifaceted and in-depth perspective on the topic, without endorsing a particular vendor or instrument. Each presenter has a unique role within their respective organizations and can offer their own specialized perspectives on the topics that will be discussed.

Challenges experienced during the implementation of a TOF/QTOF-MS system in a forensic laboratory include unforeseen costs associated with use, complicated upkeep and maintenance, a steep learning-curve for hardware and software, increased data complexity, considerations surrounding sample preparation, avoiding instrument down-time, and regulatory compliance. Many of these issues will require additional training and experience of the operational FSSPs.

Speakers will candidly discuss the challenges they have encountered—ranging from instrumental maintenance to data management bottlenecks—and will offer proven solutions based on their own experiences. The coverage will extend to the day-to-day operational realities that can be overlooked but are essential for successful system implementation and operation, such as instrument maintenance, data management, and reporting. For participants particularly interested in the analytical capabilities of these technologies, the workshop will delve into detailed recommendations concerning scope definition, method development, and validation processes. In sum, this virtual workshop event aims to equip attendees with an understanding to support the effective and efficient integration of TOF/QTOF-MS systems into FSSP operations.