Microsampling for illicit drug testing

This webinar explores microsampling and its applications in the analysis of illicit drugs, with a focus on method development and validation.

Microsampling represents a powerful tool for minimally invasive bioanalysis. In this webinar, we will present an overview of the latest miniaturized technologies and workflows tailored for illicit drug testing. Applications span from forensic and toxicological contexts to anti-doping analysis. The session includes an overview of the microsampling technologies used, insights into method development and validation, and real-world applications.

Of interest to:

  • Analytical and bioanalytical chemists
  • Toxicologists and forensic scientists
  • Clinical laboratory professionals
  • Researchers in pharmaco-toxicological analysis, medicinal chemistry, analytical chemistry, pharmaceutical analysis

​​What you will learn

  • Key technologies for modern microsampling
  • Applications in forensic, toxicological and anti-doping analysis
  • Method development and validation strategies
  • Examples of real-world implementation
  • Benefits and challenges of microsampling in illicit drug testing

Speakers

Laura Mercolini, PhD

Associate Professor of Medicinal Chemistry, Head of the Research Group of Pharmaco-Toxicological Analysis, Research Group of Pharmaco-Toxicological Analysis (PTA Lab), Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBiT), Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy

Laura Mercolini is an Associate Professor of Medicinal Chemistry at the University of Bologna and Head of the Pharmaco-Toxicological Analysis Laboratory (PTA Lab). She is also the Director of the II-level Master’s degree in Forensic Chemical and Chemical-Toxicological Analysis (MASTFORCHEM). Her research focuses on advanced bioanalytical techniques, with a strong emphasis on microsampling approaches and their application in forensic, clinical, occupational, and anti-doping fields. She is the Chair of the WADA Dried Blood Spot Technical Working Group. She acts as Deputy Editor of Medicinal Research Reviews.

Michele Protti, PhD

Senior Assistant Professor of Medicinal Chemistry, Research Group of Pharmaco-Toxicological Analysis (PTA Lab), Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBiT), Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy

Michele Protti is a Senior Assistant Professor of Medicinal Chemistry at the University of Bologna. He conducts his research at the Pharmaco-Toxicological Analysis Laboratory (PTA Lab), focusing on the development and validation of innovative analytical methods for bioactive compounds. His main areas of interest include microsampling technologies, miniaturised sample preparation, and method optimisation for clinical, forensic, and anti-doping applications. He has participated in several national and international research projects and collaborates with regulatory agencies, clinical labs, and anti-doping organizations to improve analytical workflows for illicit drug testing.

Neil Spooner

Director Spooner Bioanalytical Solutions & Chair Patient Centric Sampling Interest Group

Neil is the Founder of Spooner Bioanalytical Solutions, helping companies to integrate biological fluid microsampling, and patient centric sampling and analysis into workflows. He also works with organizations to develop technologies and introduce them to the market. Neil also assists organizations with their understanding of emerging trends in the pharmaceutical industry and bioanalysis. Neil is a Senior Visiting Research Fellow at the University of Hertfordshire, Editor in Chief of the journal, Bioanalysis, Founder of the Patient Centric Sampling Interest Group and Co-Chair of the Reid Bioanalytical Forum. He has published over 70 peer reviewed manuscripts and delivered over 50 podium presentations.​​​​​​​

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