MSU’s Patrick recognized for mass spectrometry advances as ‘Emerging Investigator’
Contact: Sarah Nicholas
STARKVILLE, Miss.—Amanda Patrick, an assistant professor in ̾Ƶ’s Department of Chemistry, is one of only 19 early career scientists globally to be named an “Emerging Investigator” by the Journal of the American Society for Mass Spectrometry.
Patrick joins a distinguished group of researchers making significant contributions to the advancement of mass spectrometry, which is an analytical technique for measuring the mass-to-charge ratio of ions.
In the recently published article () co-authored by Matthew Carlo, a summer Ph.D. graduate now residing in Ridgecrest, California, and Andie Nanney, a senior chemistry major from Biloxi, Patrick presents an innovative, cost-effective method for differentiating chemical isomers—molecules with identical mass but distinct structures.
The research offers a promising solution for making advanced molecular differentiation more accessible, with possible future applications in diverse fields such as health, environmental and forensic sciences.
“Being included among so many fantastic mass spectrometrists is an honor and a highlight of my career thus far,” Patrick said. “I am excited the research article was coauthored with both a graduate student and undergraduate student, highlighting the importance and synergy of the research and mentoring aspects of my career.”
This recent honor builds on Patrick’s significant successes in the field of mass spectrometry. Last year, she received a $540,737 grant from the National Science Foundation, awarded through its Major Research Instrumentation Program, Chemistry Research Instrumentation Program and Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research. This funding provided ̾Ƶwith a high-resolution mass spectrometer, an essential tool that enhances research in numerous areas including drug manufacturing, fuel refinement and environmental testing.
As principal investigator for the NSF grant, Patrick spearheaded efforts to integrate the high-resolution mass spectrometer into MSU’s research infrastructure. The instrument currently supports the research of 12 different research groups on campus, aiding studies ranging from developing sustainable solvents to analyzing environmental samples for contaminants. The equipment also plays a vital role in training future scientists through hands-on student education and research.
Patrick was named a in 2022 and received the American Chemical Society Petroleum Research Fund’s Doctoral New Investigator Award in 2021. Patrick has been a member of the American Society for Mass Spectrometry since 2012.
For more information about the ̾ƵCollege of Arts and Sciences and the Department of Chemistry, visit and .
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