Best of the Week: Analytical Laboratory Manager Duties, Improving SICM-TERS, Tracking Type 2 Diabetes

Analytical laboratory managers require more than just technical skills to succeed. A recent “Pathways in Spectroscopy” episode dives into this topic. Also, we continue our coverage of Pittcon 2026 with an interview clip from Naihao Chiang, an assistant professor at the University of Houston. This clip highlights challenges in liquid-phase measurements, and how tip-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (TERS) is being integrated with scanning ion-conductance microscopy (SICM) to study electrolytic environments. And finally, we also spotlight the “back to basics” theme that is driving the forensic science industry right now, with four experts giving their perspectives on the latest developments that they are seeing in the field.

This is the Best of the Week.

A Day in the Life of an Analytical Laboratory Manager

In this “Pathways in Spectroscopy” episode, Saikat Banerjee describes his dynamic role as an analytical lab manager at DuPont. His workflow centers on prioritizing diverse requests from R&D, manufacturing, and customers, focusing on problem context before selecting techniques like IR, Raman, or NMR spectroscopy.¹ In this video clip, Banerjee emphasizes translating analytical results into actionable business insights, clearly communicating uncertainties, and collaborating with stakeholders.¹ He also highlights the importance of digital tools in ensuring data traceability and efficiency, underscoring the balance between technical expertise, communication, and strategic decision-making in industry.¹

Improving SICM-TERS Performance

TERS combines scanning probe microscopy with Raman spectroscopy to deliver chemical information at nanometer-scale resolution. Naihao Chiang’s group at the University of Houston is advancing TERS through vibrational nanoscopy and by integrating it with SICM for studies in electrolytic environments. Chiang highlights challenges in liquid-phase measurements, including acoustic and vibration control, and emphasizes probe design for signal optimization.² He recommends beginning with surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) to refine fabrication before progressing to more complex TERS applications.²

Back to Basics: Analyzing the State of Forensic Science in 2026

This feature article examines how forensic science is evolving through advanced spectroscopic techniques and portable instrumentation. Methods such as Raman spectroscopy, FT-IR, and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) enable rapid, non-destructive analysis of evidence, while handheld devices support on-site investigations. Researchers are also leveraging chemometrics and AI to improve data interpretation and reduce bias. However, challenges remain, including funding limitations, workforce shortages, and legal admissibility under the Daubert standard.³ The article highlights ongoing efforts to align academic training with industry needs and emphasizes that broader adoption of new technologies will shape the future of forensic analysis.³

Can Vibrational Spectroscopy Track Type 2 Diabetes?

This Q&A overview highlights how vibrational spectroscopy, including FT-IR spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy, is advancing the detection of molecular changes in red blood cells associated with Type 2 Diabetes. These label-free techniques reveal protein misfolding, lipid remodeling, and oxidative stress, enabling early disease staging. FT-IR excels at identifying protein structural changes, while Raman complements it by probing lipid organization and redox balance.⁴ Combined with multivariate analysis, these approaches support biomarker discovery, though challenges remain in translating findings from model systems to clinical diagnostics.⁴

Reflecting on the Legacy of C. V. Raman

This Q&A explores the life and legacy of C. V. Raman, whose discovery of the Raman Effect revolutionized spectroscopy. It traces his early academic achievements, independent research while working in finance, and pivotal decision to pursue academia.⁵ The article explains how his work provided key evidence for quantum theory, alongside figures like Albert Einstein. Despite technical challenges, Raman’s findings transformed molecular analysis. His legacy endures through honors, institutions, and ongoing global applications of Raman spectroscopy in science and industry.⁵

References

1. Banerjee, S.; Wetzel, W. A Day in the Life of an Analytical Laboratory Manager. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/a-day-in-the-life-of-an-analytical-laboratory-manager (accessed 2026-03-25).
2. Chiang, N.; Wetzel, W. Improving SICM-TERS Performance. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/improving-sicm-ters-performance (accessed 2026-03-25)
3. Wetzel, W. Back to Basics: Analyzing the State of Forensic Science in 2026. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/back-to-basics-analyzing-the-state-of-forensic-science-in-2026 (accessed 2026-03-25).
4. Wetzel, W. Can Vibrational Spectroscopy Track Type 2 Diabetes? Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/can-vibrational-spectroscopy-track-type-2-diabetes (accessed 2026-03-25).
5. Wetzel, W. Reflecting on the Legacy of C. V. Raman. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/reflecting-on-the-legacy-of-c-v-raman (accessed 2026-03-25).