Metabolites and Single Compounds Laboratory

These laboratories undertake several biochemical and isotopic studies, including analyses of 1) lipid residues in archaeological pottery and carbon stable isotope analysis of fatty acids; 2) secondary metabolites in dental calculus and archaeological artefacts; 3) faecal biomarkers from soil and lake biogeochemical records; and 4) carbon and nitrogen stable isotope analysis of single amino acids from both ancient and modern samples. These analytical capabilities are made possible thanks to wet chemistry facilities and sophisticated instrumentation; a Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometer (Agilent 8890), a liquid chromatography system with a triple quad mass spectrometer (Shimadzu LCMS 8050), and a Gas Chromatography Combustion Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometer (elementar isoprime visION System).