Mass Spectrometry Facility: Sample Submission Guidelines
The Mass Spectrometry Facility provides advanced analytical services to researchers. To ensure the highest quality of data and the most efficient turnaround time, all users must complete a standardized sample submission form for every project. This process ensures that facility staff have the necessary context, safety information, and technical requirements to process your samples correctly.
Why the Submission Form Matters
Mass spectrometry is a highly sensitive technique. Small variations in sample preparation, buffer composition, or concentration can significantly impact instrument performance and data integrity. The submission form acts as a bridge between your research goals and the facilitys technical capabilities, allowing us to troubleshoot potential issues before an instrument is compromised.
Key Information Required
When filling out your submission form, please be prepared to provide the following essential details:
- Principal Investigator (PI) and Account Information: Valid billing codes are required for all services to ensure timely processing.
- Sample Identification: Clear, unique labeling for each sample. Please ensure your physical vial labels match the identifiers on the form exactly.
- Sample Nature: Are you submitting proteins, metabolites, peptides, or small molecules? Providing the chemical structure, molecular weight, or expected sequence is vital for targeted analysis.
- Sample Matrix: List all buffers, salts, and detergents present in the sample. Certain reagents, such as SDS or non-volatile salts, can damage mass spectrometry hardware and must be noted so we can perform necessary clean-up steps.
- Concentration and Volume: We require accurate estimates of sample concentration. Overloading a column can lead to poor peak shape and carryover, while underloading will result in poor signal-to-noise ratios.
- Safety Data: You must disclose any potential biological, radioactive, or chemical hazards. Samples containing pathogens or highly toxic substances require specific handling protocols to protect facility personnel.
Best Practices for Sample Preparation
Before submitting, please ensure that your samples are properly stored. Proteins should generally be kept at -80C until the moment of submission. Ensure that lids are tightly sealed to prevent evaporation, and use secondary containment (such as a labeled plastic bag) to keep samples organized.
Submission Workflow
- Consultation: For complex projects or novel experimental designs, we recommend a brief consultation with our staff prior to filling out the form.
- Online Portal Submission: Complete the electronic submission form via our facility website.
- Physical Delivery: Print a copy of the submission confirmation and attach it to your sample box. Drop your samples off at the designated facility freezer or collection point.
- Review: Facility staff will review your submission and contact you if there are questions regarding the experimental setup or sample compatibility.
Data Retrieval and Policy
Once your analysis is complete, you will receive an automated notification via email with a link to your raw and processed data. Please note that data storage is temporary; ensure you download and back up your files within 30 days of project completion. If you require assistance with data interpretation, please mention this on your submission form so that we can allocate appropriate time for a follow-up consultation.
By following these guidelines, you help us maintain the high standards of the facility and ensure that your research benefits from the most accurate and reliable mass spectrometry data possible.
