Chromatography: A Science of Discovery

Leading researchers discuss the past and present of chromatography

More than one hundred years after Mikhail Tswett pioneered adsorption chromatography, his separation technique has developed into an important branch of scientific study. Providing a full portrait of the discipline, Chromatography: A Science of Discovery bridges the gap between early, twentieth-century chromatography and the cutting edge of today’s research.

Featuring contributions from more than fifty award-winning chromatographers, Chromatography offers a multifaceted look at the development and maturation of this field into its current state, as well as its importance across various scientific endeavors. The coverage includes:

• Consideration of chromatography as a unified science rather than just a separation method

• Key breakthroughs, revolutions, and paradigm shifts in chromatography

• Profiles of Nobel laureates who used chromatography in their research, and the role it played

• Recent advances in column technology

• Chromatography’s contributions to the agricultural, space, biological/medical sciences; pharmaceutical science; and environmental, natural products, and chemical analysis

• Future trends in chromatography

With numerous references and an engaging series of voices, Chromatography: A Science of Discovery offers a diverse look at an essential area of science. It is a unique and invaluable resource for researchers, students, and other interested readers who seek a broader understanding of this field.

ROBERT L. WIXOM (1924–2009). As Professor and then Professor Emeritus of Biochemistry at University of Missouri–Columbia, Dr. Wixom received three teaching awards, including a nomination by MU students for the Conservation Educator of the Year (1996) for the State of Missouri. He served as a departmental representative to the Graduate Faculty Senate (1970–1993) and the chair of the Biological Sciences Sector, (1989–1992), which included a key role in three new major university programs. He was the co-initiator of the UMC Environmental Affairs Council, serving as their first chair for three years (1990–1994). In 2003, he received the Earlham College Outstanding Alumni Award.

CHARLES W. GEHRKE (1917–2009). As Professor and then Professor Emeritus of Biochemistry at University of Missouri–Columbia, Dr. Gehrke authored over 260 scientific publications in analytical chemistry and biochemistry, including a number of books. He was widely known for developing a quantitative gas chromatographic analysis method for amino acids, which, with NASA, advanced the analysis of moon rocks for signs of life. Dr. Gehrke developed many official analytical methods that were adopted by the Association of Analytical Chemists (AOAC) and received numerous awards, including the AOAC Harvey W. Wiley Award.

Drs. Wixom and Gehrke continued to contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge and education in many ways long after retiring from teaching and research at the University of Missouri. With a great appreciation for history and the groundwork that has been laid for future generations of scientists, they teamed up to produce this book Chromatography: A Science of Discovery. This is their last publication, as they both have passed away. The future of chromatography will benefit from their lifelong efforts.