Semarang, July 17, 2026 – The Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Mathematics (FSM), Universitas Diponegoro (UNDIP), successfully organized the second session of the UNDIP Global Classroom (UGC) as part of the Analytical Instrumentation course. Conducted online on Friday, July 17, 2026, the event brought together students and professionals to deepen their understanding of modern mass spectrometry techniques.
The session was moderated by Prof. Drs. Gunawan, M.Si., Ph.D., who welcomed participants and introduced the invited speaker, Dr. Viko Ladelta, Staff Scientist at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Saudi Arabia. The lecture, entitled “Mass Spectrometry: Fundamentals and Data Analysis,” provided comprehensive insights into the principles and practical applications of mass spectrometry.
Dr. Ladelta explained the fundamental concepts of mass spectrometry, including ionization methods, mass analyzers, mass detection systems, isotope patterns, and data interpretation through real-world case studies. Drawing on more than a decade of research experience, he highlighted the growing importance of Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) for analyzing high-molecular-weight compounds.
Unlike conventional mass spectrometry, which is generally used to characterize relatively small molecules, MALDI-TOF MS enables the characterization of macromolecules such as natural and synthetic polymers. These materials are widely utilized in industrial applications, making accurate molecular characterization essential for research and product development.
To reinforce the theoretical concepts, Dr. Ladelta presented a case study on polystyrene, demonstrating how mass spectra can be interpreted to determine molecular weight distributions and estimate the number of repeating monomer units in polymer chains.
The session attracted 14 participants, including undergraduate and postgraduate students from the Department of Chemistry, Universitas Diponegoro, along with Ms. Dwita Srihapsari from the Forensic Laboratory, whose professional work extensively involves mass spectrometry.
Through the UNDIP Global Classroom program, the Department of Chemistry continues to strengthen its commitment to international academic collaboration by connecting students with distinguished researchers from leading global institutions. The program also provides valuable opportunities for participants to gain exposure to advanced analytical techniques and current developments in chemical sciences, preparing them to meet the challenges of modern research and industry.