Pathways in Spectroscopy Preview: Planning a Scientific Conference

Our ongoing “Pathways in Spectroscopy” short-form video series takes spectroscopists on a journey through self-discovery and the options they have for careers with their skills and knowledge. By focusing on key professional development topics and highlighting numerous career paths, the hope is that the practical information provided in this video series can serve as guidance for spectroscopists as they navigate a brutal and evolving job market.¹

In several of our previous videos, we’ve touched upon numerous career paths that some spectroscopists have taken, such as starting their own business, serving as a product manager for an instrument supplier, and managing an analytical laboratory. However, in an upcoming episode, we will shift to another field spectroscopists can find employment in––event planning.

In an upcoming episode of “Pathways in Spectroscopy,” we sit down with Brian Strohmeier, who has had an extensive career in analytical spectroscopy.

Strohmeier’s expertise is in surface analysis and microscopy, specializing in industrial R&D, manufacturing problem-solving, and advanced materials characterization.² He has served as an expert trial witness in litigation involving analytical techniques and has extensive experience developing instrumental methods in applied chemistry. His expertise spans various spectroscopic techniques, including X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), atomic emission spectroscopy (AES), secondary-ion mass spectrometry (SIMS), glow discharge–optical emission spectroscopy (GD-OES), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM/EDS), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Strohmeier’s research covers adhesion, corrosion, surface modification, and diverse material systems, including metals, polymers, and catalysts.²

However, we focused our conversation on Strohmeier’s new role as the President of Pittcon for 2027, which will be held in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

On April 20^th, we will dive into the behind-the-scenes planning that goes into making a scientific conference a success. Strohmeier will touch upon the inner workings of the Pittcon staff, and how the staff, along with a collection of volunteers, collaborate on pulling off a scientific trade show of Pittcon’s size.

We’re looking forward to sharing you this episode on April 20^th.

References

1. Wetzel, W. Pathways in Spectroscopy, Episode 1: Sarah Theiner on Transitioning from Research to Sales. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/pathways-in-spectroscopy-episode-1-sarah-theiner-on-transitioning-from-research-to-sales (accessed 2026-02-06).
2. LinkedIn, Brian Strohmeier. LinkedIn. Available at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mercedes-bertotto-41421019/ (accessed 2026-03-26).