Instrumentation and development of a mass spectrometry system for the study of gas-phase biomolecular ion reactions

Lin, Ziqing, "Instrumentation and development of a mass spectrometry system for the study of gas-phase biomolecular ion reactions" (2015). Open Access Dissertations. 503. ii ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS I am deeply thankful to my PhD advisor, Prof. Zheng Ouyang. He is more than a mentor or supervisor, but a kind friend, giving me a fantastic PhD experience at Purdue. His passion, courage and extraordinary vision in scientific research makes him an outstanding scientist and engineer. Prof. Ouyang works hard day and night, while on the other side providing a free and comfortable environment for me and other colleagues in the group to do research and raise opinions without pressure. These precious characteristics no doubt affect me in my professional life. When we first met in Tsinghua, he told me that PhD life is a best opportunity to test our boundary of capabilities. I learnt a lot during my PhD study, not only in terms of technical knowledge but the determination and belief in solving a problem. Five years is not a short period, I truly appreciate his supervision and encouragement for me to explore the scientific world and myself. It is my honor to know Zheng as a person and have the opportunity to work with each other for both research and teaching experiences. I sincerely wish him good luck for his future endeavors. I would also like to extend my thanks to Prof. Yu Xia in Department of Chemistry. I received a lot of valuable suggestions and comments from her for gas-phase ion chemistry. Prof. Xia is very sophisticated and precise about her scientific findings. Her dedication and persistence shows me how one could possibly be devoted to her career. Moreover, Dr. Xia has a charismatic personality and always welcomes discussions at any iii time. She also allowed me to use the nanospray tip puller and the commercial mass spectrometer in her laboratory, which was a great favor during my PhD study. It is my privilege to have Prof. Kinam Park and Prof. Corey Neu in my thesis committee, who are always trying to do everything to help. although not in my committee, has offered tremendous guidance and support in different perspectives of my graduate studies. I would also like to thank Prof. from Badger Technical Services for their kind help in organic synthesis, theoretical calculation, and tips for the pyrolysis nozzle.