Good mass spectrometry and its place in good science

Good practices in analytical sciences are indispensible for the accurate reporting and the proper interpretation of results. In this tutorial special feature article, Mark Duncan (University of Colorado Denver) systematically outlines important aspects and parameters one should consider for best practices in mass spectrometry. This eff ort is motivated by the greater availability of instruments in individual laboratories often operated by researchers without formal training or expertise in analytical science and mass spectrometry. He also emphasizes the role operators of mass spectrometry platforms have in designing the appropriate experimental schemes and experiments to adequately answer the questions asked. This tutorial will be benefi cial to the novice in the fi eld of mass spectrometry and may also serve as a benchmark for more senior or experienced users. Mark Duncan, Ph.D., is Professor of Medicine at the University of Colorado Denver - School of Medicine. He is also co-director of the University of Colorado Denver Proteomics facility. His research activities balance new method development with goal-orientated clinical research. He is not only committed to improving analytical methods, but to ensuring that the methods are employed to address important clinical questions. His research philosophy is that good science must be founded on valid analytical data.