Pathways in Spectroscopy Preview: What it Takes to be an Analytical Laboratory Manager

In our “Pathways in Spectroscopy” series thus far, we have explored several important topics that would appeal to young, emerging spectroscopists seeking to grow their careers and professional development.

“Pathways in Spectroscopy” offers an inside look at the numerous career paths spectroscopists can take. This short-form video series focuses on career-related topics and professional development, covering a wide range of topics such as building technical and soft skills, identifying career advancement opportunities, navigating transitions between academia and industry, and understanding emerging trends in analytical instrumentation and applications.¹

In February, we focused primarily on entrepreneurship in spectroscopy. Our guest, Mercedes Bertotto, highlighted some of the key challenges and important strategic decisions that she had to make in order to turn her spectroscopic knowledge into a marketable business plan.

In March, we focus on what it means to work in an analytical laboratory. Our guest, Saikat Banerjee, will discuss his background in spectroscopy and how it led him to his current position as an analytical laboratory manager at DuPont.

Saikat Banerjee has been a Senior Scientist and the Analytical Lab Manager at DuPont for nearly 4 years. He previously worked at Northwestern University as a postdoctoral research associate before joining DuPont. Banerjee holds a Ph.D in Chemistry from the University of Minnesota.

DuPont is a multinational science and technology company founded in 1802, known for innovations in chemicals, materials, and agriculture.^2,3 Historically a gunpowder manufacturer, it evolved into a leader in polymers and industrial chemistry, developing products such as nylon, Teflon, Kevlar, and Tyvek.^2,3 Today, the company focuses on electronics, water solutions, safety, and advanced materials, serving industries from semiconductors to construction while emphasizing sustainability and high-performance engineering. It continues investing in R&D and strategic partnerships to address global challenges across markets worldwide.^2,3

We are looking forward to sharing our conversation with Banerjee with you soon.

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. DuPont, About Us. DuPont. Available at: https://www.dupont.com/about.html (accessed 2026-02-26).
3. Britannica Money, DuPont Company. Brittanica.com. Available at: https://www.britannica.com/money/DuPont-Company (accessed 2026-02-26).