The beginning of this week was a continuation of last week’s extensive sample preparation. This time, however, we would not be creating more samples but testing their PFOS and PFBA adsorption. Because PFOS and PFBA are kinds of PFAS that cannot be detected through the HPLC sensor, the PDA, we had to use the LC-MS, which is located in the BRC. The LC-MS is actually the standard method of testing for PFAS adsorption. However, due to the distance of the LC-MS and the convenience of the HPLC being in the lab we currently work in, it was decided that PFOA could be tested on the HPLC.

 We decided to walk to the BRC, which allowed me to see parts of the campus I did not know of. It was extremely hot, but it was nice to get a change of scenery. Once we got there and took a lot at the LC-MS, I noticed that it was very similar to the HPLC.

It similarly had different liquid phases, which were in places on top of one part of the machine and had the same overall setup of where vials would be placed and eventually extracted from. The biggest difference in the LC-MS was that it had a separate machine. This is due to the fact that the method of detecting samples involves mass spectrometry. Consequently, this allows for precise data without any complications like the HPLC may present. 

I also got to attend a group meeting with my PI. In group meetings, there will always be a person presenting research followed by questions from the audience. It was interesting to hear about someone’s research that is vastly different from mine. Because it was something I was unfamiliar with and had a lot to do with complex DNA engineering, it was quite hard to follow, but I tried my best to comprehend the information to the best of my abilities.

Overall, I am completing lab work on my own now. Every day, I am tasked with contaminating the various samples I have created in the past few weeks and preparing them in vials to be tested in either the HPLC or the LC-MS. Even when small adjustments are made to the experimental procedure, I am able to complete them on my own, which is an accomplishment I was immensely looking forward to this summer. Now that I have gotten a grasp of the concepts of the purpose of the project, my current challenge changes every day. One day I am confused about how many samples I need to create, and which ones would go through the LC-MS or the HPLC and the next day I may be struggling with the process and math behind dilutions. Fortunately, I feel comfortable enough to speak up when I need help understanding something and my mentor and other graduate students always offer to explain the steps further.

In my short time here, I have learned quite a few things about my preferences in learning and habits that can promote productivity. I’ve learned that I feel more motivated and productive to get work done in the morning. This also led to my discovery of preferring to complete lab work first and computer work second. Because lab work can be very long, tedious, and a place of learning, I find that it is best to complete lab tasks before my energy depletes throughout the progression of the day. Furthermore, although computer work requires focus and motivation, I like to end my days on the computer because it allows me to let go of the intense focus I have in the lab. Additionally, I like to plan for what I am expected to do tomorrow at the end of each day. Our research requires an immense number of samples therefore planning for days in advance is necessary to be on schedule.