December 2009 Contents

Becoming a Super Lab Manager

There is hardly a company in the world that hasn't been affected by the global economic downturn. In an economy such as ours, management should help alleviate the stress put on employees worrying about job security. Communication is key, and when staff members are aware of an organization's goals, productivity and motivation improve.

Richard Daub

Perspective On: A Food Testing Lab

The U.S. imports food from more than 150 countries and territories. Much of it is fresh produce and seafood, which can carry microscopic contaminants. While these contaminants become smaller and more sophisticated and food safety laws become stricter, food testing laboratories are coming up with new technologies and processes to detect chemical toxins before they reach the consumer.

Bernard Tulsi

Motivating a 21st Century Lab Staff, Part II

In coming up with ways to motivate their staff, managers should take into account the different age cohorts that exist among employees. These groups all value different things and have various expectations when it comes to work. This article outlines ways of approaching each of these cohorts.

Ronald B. Pickett

Location, Location, Location

Whether your R&D operation functions as one central laboratory or as several smaller laboratories, the location chosen can impact facets of your business differently. From personnel relocation to reducing operating costs, several factors should be taken into consideration when determining the best location for your lab.

John K. Borchardt

Measuring Mercury Levels in Fish

Human activities produce most of the mercury found in the environment. After it settles into rivers, lakes and oceans, it reacts with microorganisms and converts to methyl mercury, which builds up in predatory fish. Regulatory bodies around the world have initiated strict legislation to monitor mercury levels in seafood to protect the health of consumers.

Hazel Dickson

The Evolution of Equipment Service

The quality and reliability of your laboratory equipment is central to generating results. Those results have a vital impact on the success of your lab, and when an instrument fails, your reputation can suffer. Choosing the right service provider can have a significant impact on your lab’s efficiency and success.

Joachim Joerger

Science Matters

A Year in Review – Looking Back and Planning Ahead

Rich Pennock

Product Focus

Chillers

Freezers

Washers

Ovens

Evolution Of

Analytical Balances

Technology News

The latest equipment, instrument and system introductions to the laboratory market.

Lab Safety

The how, when and what for a meaningful lab safety audit.

Vince McLeod

Spotlight On Software

Purpose-Built LIMS

Dave Champagne

How It Works

Obtaining Cost-effective and Precise qPCR Chemistries

Sample Preparation for the Detection of PAH and Phthalates

Predicting Central Nervous System (CNS) Drug Penetration

Sample Security