Previewing the 12th Nordic Conference on Plasma Spectrochemistry and Ionization Principles in Mass Spectrometry

The 2026 Winter Conference on Plasma Spectrochemistry in Tucson, Arizona, was a success. On the heels of this conference is the 12^th Nordic Conference on Plasma Spectrochemistry and Ionization Principles in Mass Spectrometry, which will cover similar topics and take place in Loen, Norway, from June 14–18, 2026 (1,2).

This unique conference serves as another opportunity for spectroscopists, scientists, and industry professionals to gather under one roof to talk about the latest trends and developments plasma spectrochemical and mass spectrometric techniques. Hosted by the Analytical Section of the Norwegian Chemical Society (NKS), this biennial event promises to bring together an international community of researchers, laboratory professionals, instrument developers, and industry experts who share a deep interest in plasma spectrochemical and mass spectrometric (MS) techniques (2).

Plasma spectrochemistry and related ionization methods in MS are foundational to modern elemental and molecular analysis. They underpin technologies ranging from inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) to advanced ionization strategies that enhance sensitivity and selectivity in complex matrices. The 12th Nordic Conference will explore these themes in depth, with an emphasis on both fundamental principles and cutting-edge applications (1,2).

Some of the topics that will be talked about extensively throughout the week include inductively coupled plasma (ICP), direct-current plasma (DCP), mid-infrared photothermal (MIP) and glow discharge; plasma fundamentals and mechanisms; laser-assisted spectrometric techniques; and ionization methods in MS including ESI, MALDI, SIMS, AMS, and emerging hybrid approaches (2). It also covers sample preparation, hyphenated methods, miniaturization and nanotechnology, as well as elemental, isotopic, and molecular characterization (2).

Beyond theory and instrumentation, the conference highlights practical and interdisciplinary applications across fields such as environmental science, geochemistry, proteomics, metabolomics, human and veterinary medicine, material sciences, and security applications (2). This breadth makes the conference particularly valuable for researchers seeking to translate analytical innovation into real-world impact.

The scientific program for the conference will include a combination of oral and poster presentations. These presentations and oral symposia will be delivered from the leading experts in the field (3). These experts represent some of the leading thought leaders in spectrochemistry, and their various backgrounds will allow for numerous application areas to be covered during the week. Some of the expected coverage topics include biogenic nanoparticle characterization, microplastics detection through advanced spectrometry, novel ionization techniques, simultaneous atomic and molecular spectrometry, and MS imaging at micro and nano scales. In addition, there will also be a number of short courses available for attendees to participate in, all of which are geared to deepening their methodological understanding (3).

What sets the Nordic Conference apart is its balance of high-level scientific discourse and community building. Attendees can engage with exhibitors showcasing the latest scientific instruments, reagents, and resources, fostering connections that extend beyond the lecture hall (3,4).

Another aspect to this conference that sets it apart is its location. Loen is positioned in Norway’s fjord region, which is a popular vacation spot in the country. Optional activities attendees can take advantage of including an excursion to the Briksdal Glacier featuring an outdoor conference dinner, and scenic tours such as a fjord cruise on Loen Lake and visits to Geiranger and Dalsnibba summits (4).

As plasma spectrochemistry and MS continue to evolve with innovations in instrumentation and analytical strategies, the 12th Nordic Conference on Plasma Spectrochemistry serves as an upcoming forum to continue the conversation. Whether you are a seasoned expert or an emerging scientist, this conference is set to serve the analytical science community by fostering an environment where collaboration and the exchange of ideas can flourish.

References

1. Nordic Plasma, Nordic Conference on Plasma Spectrochemistry and Ionization Principles in Mass Spectrometry: From Elements to Molecules! Nordic Plasma. Available at: https://nordicplasma.com/ (accessed 2026-02-02).
2. Nordic Plasma, Scope of Conference. Nordic Plasma. Available at: https://nordicplasma.com/scope/#read (accessed 2026-02-02).
3. Nordic Plasma, Scientific Programme. Nordic Plasma. Available at: https://nordicplasma.com/scientific_programme/#read (accessed 2026-02-02).
4. Nordic Plasma, Social Programme. Nordic Plasma. Available at: https://nordicplasma.com/social_programme/#read (accessed 2026-02-02).