Full-Service Analysis
The Mass Spectrometry & MS Imaging Facility provides analytical support to researchers at Columbia University and external collaborators. We offer both full-service analysis and self-service instrument access depending on project needs.
For full-service projects, facility staff perform sample preparation, LC-MS or MS imaging data acquisition, and data analysis. We work closely with researchers to select appropriate methods and instrumentation for each study.
Lipidomics & Metabolomics
Lipids and small-molecule metabolites play important roles in cell signaling, energy metabolism, and disease biology. We use high-resolution LC-MS/MS to profile complex biological samples for both untargeted discovery and targeted quantitative studies.
Services include:
- Untargeted lipidomic and metabolomic profiling
- Targeted analysis of lipid classes and metabolite panels
- Comparative studies across tissues and biofluids
- Biomarker and metabolic pathway studies
Compatible sample types:
Cells, fresh-frozen tissue, OCT-embedded tissue, plasma, serum, and urine
Targeted Drug Quantification
Quantitative analysis of drugs and their metabolites is important for pharmacokinetic studies, drug development, and clinical research. We use triple-quadrupole LC-MS/MS with MRM detection for sensitive and selective analysis in plasma, urine, tissue, and other complex biological samples.
Services include:
- MRM-based quantitative analysis
- Calibration curve and internal standard workflows
- Pharmacokinetic and drug metabolism studies
- Method development and validation
PFAS & Environmental Contaminant Analysis
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are persistent environmental contaminants that can accumulate in biological and environmental samples at trace levels. We use targeted LC-MS/MS with MRM workflows for sensitive detection and quantification in complex matrices.
Services include:
- Targeted PFAS quantification (including PFOA, PFOS, and expanded panels)
- Analysis of water, plasma, serum, tissue, and environmental samples
- Method development for emerging contaminants
- Exposure and biomonitoring studies
DESI Mass Spectrometry Imaging
Desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry imaging (DESI-MSI) enables direct molecular analysis of tissue sections without extraction or staining. The technique generates spatial maps showing the distribution and localization of lipids, metabolites, drugs, and small molecules across tissue sections while preserving tissue morphology.
We use DESI-MSI for both untargeted molecular profiling and targeted imaging workflows in fresh-frozen and OCT-embedded tissues, including tumor samples and 3D spheroid models. Molecular images can also be aligned with histological stains such as H&E for direct comparison with tissue structure and pathology.
Services include:
- Spatial lipidomics and metabolite imaging
- Label-free molecular imaging from tissue sections
- Molecular mapping across tumor margins and tissue compartments
- Co-registration with histological images
- Targeted imaging and relative quantification workflows
Typical spatial resolution:
40–50 μm
Self-Service Access & Training
Select instruments are available for independent use by trained researchers. After an onboarding session with facility staff, users can schedule instrument time and run samples independently.
SFC-MS
Supercritical fluid chromatography-MS for small molecule analysis, chiral separations, and reaction monitoring
Location: 544 Havemeyer
Advion Expression CMS-L
Open-access mass spectrometry system with TLC plate reader for routine compound confirmation and synthetic chemistry workflows
Location: 544 Havemeyer
MALDI-TOF/TOF
Peptide and protein mass profiling, intact mass measurements, and polymer analysis
Location: 216 Havemeyer
Getting Started
To discuss a project or request training, contact Dr. Fereshteh Zandkarimi. For new projects, we recommend an initial meeting to review sample requirements, experimental design, and expected turnaround times.
Current rates are available on the Rates page.