Applications of Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry for Advancing Public Health and Environmental Sustainability

This thesis presents research from international collaborations exploring applications of chromatography and mass spectrometry for advancing public health and environmental sustainability. Using liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry, antimicrobial residues were quantified in wastewater from a national campaign, and identified a high risk of both antimicrobial resistance emergence and potential environmental harm. Hospitals were identified as a significant contributor of antimicrobials in wastewater further highlighting the need for comprehensive national action. Cannabinoids and pyrethrin pesticides, two naturally-occurring chemicals, were also examined using comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography with mass spectrometry to explore the unique capabilities, applications, and limitations of this technology.