Robert Bradshaw and Laura Cole

Robert Bradshaw and Laura Cole, Sheffield Hallam University

Interviewed by Mervyn Lewis, Associate Editor

Originally published in October 2023

What was your impression of Mass Spectrometry when you were first introduced to it?

RB: I was first introduced to mass spectrometry when I was studying for my BSc in Forensic Biology in 2006. I was fascinated by the theoretical concepts and the broad range of applications which were available. This particularly resonated with me as I was being taught by world renowned experts in this field, making the research applications that were being discussed more relateable. The enthusiasm for the topic shown by my tutors was something that made me very intrigued.

LC: My first introduction to mass spectrometry was as an undergraduate Biomedical Science Student back in 2004. Being only a small part of analytical science modules initially it was a fascinating phenomenon to me! Unlike now, it was not a technique that was associated as a key tool in biomedical science. My lecturers at the time did their best to convince us all of its power!

What persuaded you that Mass Spectrometry could be a good career option for you? Were you attracted by an application of Mass Spectrometry or excited by the prospect of developing it as an instrumental technique?

RB: Due to the research that was being undertaken in the Biomolecular Sciences Research Centre (BMRC) at Sheffield Hallam University, I was particularly drawn towards applications within mass spectrometry imaging. I saw that this work was being disseminated in journals and in conferences worldwide and this is something I wanted to be involved in.  

LC: Imaging work within the Biomolecular Sciences Research Centre (BMRC) at Sheffield Hallam University was the initial fascination for me and was the turning point for my career choice and future research specialism. I was attracted by the numerous applications, its future applicability and advancement as a powerful disease diagnostics tool.

How did you go about finding your first opportunity in Mass Spectrometry?

RB: A sandwich placement opportunity became available during my Undergraduate studies which focused on the use of MALDI MSI for the analysis of latent fingermarks under the supervision of Prof. Simona Francese (who has gone on to make significant advancements in this topic over the past 15 years). During my placement year, I was able to see the power of this technique and the ability to obtain an abundance of information (both chemical and physical) from minute sample quantities. I went on to complete a PhD and PostDoc. in the same topic, working closely with potential end-users at the UK Home Office and West Yorkshire Police. I have now gone full circle, teaching the new generation of scientists about mass spectrometry concepts and applications in my role as a Senior lecturer in Analytical Science at SHU.

LC: Mass spec found me I guess! I was looking for a PhD project with a cancer research theme and did not ever foresee a switch to bioanalytical chemistry and mass spectrometry. In fact, I declined when a colleague suggested I apply to a mass spec project! I am so glad I made the plunge for what at first was a steep learning curve (with many peaks and troughs!) but then so rewarding and resulted in finding my niche in scientific research. I went on to complete my PhD with Director of Studies being Professor Malcolm Clench on a CRUK funded project. I then continued working with Malcolm as a PostDoc. before being appointed as Course Leader and Senior Lecturer in Biomedical Science at Sheffield Hallam University.

In what application fields do you see new opportunities in Mass Spectrometry?

RB: One of my current research interests lies in environmental chemistry, in particular the transfer of potentially harmful molecules from plastics onto foodstuff. It is evident that the public are becoming more aware about issues surrounding the use of plastics and the impact it has on our world. Modern instrumentation is becoming increasingly more capable in detecting low abundant analytes in a range of sample types, which makes analysis of leachate more achievable.

LC: I am passionate about mass spec imaging within the clinical setting and encouraging links between pathologists and multimodal mass spectrometry imaging. The multiplexing nature of mass spec offers numerous possibilities in disease diagnostics and especially now where instrument run times are becoming more high throughput maintaining spatial resolution.

What is your opinion about the impact that automation and informatics will have on Mass Spectrometry?

RB: Modern instrumentation can provide an abundance of data which can be extremely difficult and time consuming to interpret manually. Automation for data interpretation will certainly make this process easier and should ultimately maximise the information obtained from datasets.

LC: Automation, informatics tailored with machine learning innovations seem to be driving the forward momentum of data analysis. In the appropriate setting why not? Human decision making, especially involving a patient’s treatment plan teamed with such advancements could be very beneficial in healthcare.

Could you describe your views on career prospects in Mass Spectrometry for young people?

RB: Mass spectrometry is an exciting field to work in as it is ever changing and improving. A career in mass spectrometry often means working on new and interesting topics requiring multiple key professional skills such as communication, collaboration, and innovation. The world of mass spectrometry is also so vast and covers multiple analyte types, innovative applications, and instrument types – this opens a world of opportunities for a budding mass spectrometrist! 

LC: Mass spectrometry unbeknown to many, is a mainstay technique being employed universally from hospitals to airports; aside from the academic workbench. However, such a powerful, diverse tool still appears to be unfamiliar to many students that I teach during lectures and practical sessions. The analytical team here at Sheffield Hallam University (academic and technical) continue to promote the benefits and inform on the diverse career prospects now available for young people to ensure the mass spec future is in safe hands! 

Acknowledgements.

Laura and Rob would like to thank Sheffield Hallam University, CMSI and colleagues within the mass spectrometry group and research centre here, headed by Prof. Malcolm Clench. "Enjoy your retirement, Malcolm!". Rob would also like to thank Prof. Francese for her support throughout his progression within academia.