CHEMICAL ANALYSIS AND DETECTION FACILITY CORE – ABSTRACT The diverse research performed by Center investigators requires the ability to identify and measure a wide array of contaminants in the environment and in biological samples. The Chemical Analysis and Detection (CAD) Facility Core addresses this need through the development of new methods for detection and measurement of small molecules and metals present in various matrices. As the number and quantities of new and emerging environmental contaminants increases, CAD strives to develop high throughput analytical methods that can measure 100 or more analytes in a single assay. The Core staff includes five PhD chemical analysts who prepare and analyze samples, maintain cutting edge analytical capabilities, and develop methods as needed to respond to new environmental challenges. Most analytical measurements are performed using the Core’s extensive capabilities in mass spectrometry, which includes gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) methods for identification and quantitation of organic contaminants, as well as inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP/MS) for quantification of metals. The Facility Core staff are highly experienced researchers who work with investigators on experimental design, appropriate sample collection methods, customization of existing assays, and development of unique assays. Following analyses, CAD assists with data interpretation and review of quality assurance and quality control. CAD works closely with the CEED Translational Research Support Core, the Community Engagement Core and the Research Cores to ensure that samples are prepared appropriately for analysis. CAD also offers training in mass spectrometry to CEED members, students and postdocs, enabling them to run their own assays with supervision from Core staff. During the current grant period, the Core has analyzed over 16,000 samples from 26 different CEED investigators. During the next grant period, CAD will expand and refine existing methods in multiclass targeted analysis (e.g., endocrine disruptors, PFAS). CAD is also designing new methods based on non-targeted LC/MS analysis for identification of contaminants in environmental samples, as well exposomic approaches for hazard assessment. Additionally, CAD is developing laser ablation ICP/MS methods for use in spatial and temporal quantitation of metals (e.g., teeth, tissue samples, and hair). As part of CAD’s role in rapid response to disasters, core researchers also evaluate, optimize, and validate methods for the use of field ready sensors and passive samplers. The Core’s combination of expertise, experience, and access to sophisticated instrumentation provides critical support for CEED research projects that require either routine or state-of-the- art science capabilities for measuring small molecules and metal contaminants that adversely impact human health. CAD’s extensive analytic too...