Pittcon 2025
Hello all,
I attended this year’s Pittcon 2025 in Boston from March 1- 5.
The show serves as a platform for introducing cutting-edge technologies and fostering discussions on critical issues in the scientific community while presenting significant advancements in laboratory science and instrumentation.
In other words, ways that strong labs can be ahead of the wave and become even stronger.
With so little time and so many presentations and panels to take in, here are some of Marc’s notes and highlights from the conference, in case you were not able to attend:
Conference Theme
The overarching theme of Pittcon 2025 focused on collaboration, connection, and cultivating the next generation of researchers, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary partnerships and mentorship in driving scientific innovation.
These aspects of the conference underscored the event’s role in advancing scientific knowledge, fostering professional growth, and showcasing technological innovations in the field of laboratory science.
A Sample of MS and LC Product Launches and Innovations
Shimadzu Scientific Instruments introduced several new products, such as three UV-Vis spectrophotometers designed to minimize stray light and enhance data reliability. They also unveiled a new lineup of triple quadrupole mass spectrometers, each offering improved sensitivity and user-friendly features.
Axcend presented the Focus LC system, a compact high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) platform featuring automated sample injection and real-time in-line monitoring, compatible with existing data systems to streamline laboratory workflows.
Industry Participation
Notably, Agilent Technologies returned to Pittcon after a 13-year hiatus, marking a significant presence at the conference.
Conversely, major companies like Thermo Fisher Scientific and Waters Corporation were absent, with only Waters' TA Instruments division participating.
Keynote Lecture
The Wallace H. Coulter Lecture was delivered by Dr. Cato T. Laurencin, a distinguished engineer, physician, scientist, innovator, and professor at the University of Connecticut. Dr. Laurencin is regarded as the founder of the field of regenerative engineering and is currently the executive director of the Connecticut Convergence Institute for Translation in Regenerative Engineering.
His talk, titled "Regenerative Engineering: The Frontier is Here," emphasized the convergence of materials science, stem cell research, and clinical translation to regenerate complex tissues and organs.
Emerging Trends
Discussions at Pittcon 2025 highlighted several emerging trends:
User-Centric Design: Manufacturers emphasized designs informed by user feedback to enhance the usability and visual appeal of laboratory instruments.
Advancements in Mass Spectrometry: There was a focus on developing mass spectrometry technologies that are more accessible and easier to use, broadening their application in various research fields.
Integration of AI and Focus on PFAS: The conference addressed the role of artificial intelligence in laboratory settings and the challenges posed by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), underscoring the need for innovative analytical solutions.
Networking Opportunities
The conference offered various networking sessions to foster collaboration and professional development:
Chemistry Career Paths Panel: Aimed at undergraduate and graduate students, this panel featured experts from industry, academia, government, and graduate schools, discussing career options for chemistry graduates.
Building an Academic Career as a Separation Scientist: Led by Emanuela Gionfriddo, PhD., Associate Professor of Chemistry at the University of Buffalo, and Katelynn Perrault Uptmor, PhD., Assistant Professor of Chemistry at William & Mary, this session provided insights into academic careers in separation science, offering CV-building tips and advice for early-career scientists.
Educational Engagement
Waynesburg University was represented by Associate Professor of Chemistry, Dr. Bradley Davis, and six students, who attended the conference as Student Aides. They participated in technical programs, explored the exposition, and engaged in professional development opportunities such as short courses and networking sessions.
Exhibitor Innovations
Companies like Etallwit showcased a range of laboratory solutions, including liquid handling systems, chemical synthesis instruments, and environmental storage solutions, highlighting their commitment to advancing laboratory efficiency and precision.
Did you attend Pittcon? We would love to hear your feedback about the conference and any other highlights you’d like to tell us and your colleagues about.