MALCOLM A. BARNARD

As a  graduate student pursuing a Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry in the Brodbelt Research Group at The University of Texas at Austin’s Department of Chemistry, I am interested in utilizing my interdisciplinary research background to bring a unique and comprehensive perspective to develop analytical workflows from method development to software in the field of top-down and native mass spectrometry.

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In my current work, I use HPLC, capillary electrophoresis (CE), and ion mobility separation (drift tube and TIMS) paired with top down, native, and charge detection mass spectrometry (Orbi-CDMS) to study complex intact biological molecules and to perform software development. I create and optimize mass spectrometry-based analysis workflows for cyclic peptides, intact proteins, protein complexes, and megadalton-sized biological complexes to expand analytical workflow capabilities in the biological mass spectrometry field.

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Foundational studies in ecology, marine sciences, and biology have informed my interdisciplinary approach to analytical instrumentation and methodology. My previous research focused on the biogeochemical drivers of harmful algal blooms (HABs). HABs and harmful cyanobacterial blooms (HCBs) are increasing in magnitude and prevalence globally. They can cause major human and environmental health detriments, shut down public water supplies, and lead to death of dogs and livestock. My prior research focused on investigating biogeochemical drivers of HABs and HCBs at the molecular, community, ecosystem, and watershed scales. Using analytical chemistry, sensor, and remote sensing techniques, I investigated macro-nutritional and vitamin geochemical influences on HABs and HCBs. Illuminating and understanding the biogeochemical drivers of HABs and HCBs is crucial to be able to combat the deleterious effects of the blooms.