GOM Measurement Challenges: Advancements and Insights from Sreekanth's Ph.D. Journey

Continuing Sreekanth's Ph.D. journey from our last newsletter: Sreekanth delivered two presentations at the ICMGP 2022 conference. Subsequently, he delved into his research on applying the non-thermal plasma calibration method to enhance GOM measurements using a Tekran Hg vapor analyzer coupled with a speciation system. He utilized metrology training received from the GMOS-Train project to advance this work, resulting in a recent publication as his second peer-reviewed paper in Analytica Chimica Acta. Additionally, he presented this work at the Goldschmidt conference 2023 in poster format.

Sreekanth shared the outcomes of his research work at the GMOS Train meetings held in Hamburg and Nantes. Continuing his focus on GOM measurement issues, he started laboratory experiments to investigate sampling biases arising from denuders and cation exchange membranes (CEM) during the pre-concentration step.

Sreekanth actively participated in a workshop on "Measurement of Atmospheric Mercury: Assessment of New Measurement and Calibration Methods and Development of a Path Forward," held in October 2023 at the University of Nevada, Reno (USA), where he delivered two talks highlighting his recent work on GOM measurement challenges, including calibration issues and sampling losses. The workshop aimed to address critical aspects of atmospheric mercury measurements, calibration, and the research needed to overcome current limitations. Moreover, he contributed to COP 5 'Minamata Convention on Mercury' in Geneva, Switzerland, by introducing the GMOS Train project's first work package (atmospheric mercury dynamics) during a side event – a ‘knowledge lab session’.

As a result of collaborations among ESRs, Sreekanth co-authored 2 papers this year with ESR9 and ESR10. Currently, Sreekanth is immersed in laboratory experiments concerning GOM stability issues attributed to CEM, which he plans to publish as his third peer-reviewed research paper. Despite the inherent challenges of lab work, he remains focused on completing his Ph.D. and anticipates presenting his findings on GOM measurement issues at ICMGP 2024 through an oral presentation.

by tina

Alkuin (ESR1) Celebrates PhD Defense Success with Global Collaborators and French Tradition

On 2nd of November 2023, Alkuin (ESR1) successfully defended his PhD thesis with the title: “New Constraints on Atmospheric Mercury Cycling from Two Mountain Observatories in the Southern Hemisphere Tropics” (the thesis has been published and is now openly accessible under: https://www.theses.fr/2023GRALU030). The GMOS train was well represented in the PhD defense, not only on stage and in the jury, but also in the audience. Many collaborators tuned in online (among them most ESRs) and, amazingly, Sonja (ESR7), Isabel (ESR6), and Dr Johannes Bieser (from Hereon) even found the time to be there in person!

Following the long but engaging scientific discussions during the defense, the evening was rounded off – as customary in France – with a pot de thèse, an open buffet with plenty of food and drinks. In tune with Alkuin’s life trajectory, this featured a mix of Latin-American (mostly Bolivian), French, and German specialties.

After this unforgettable day, Alkuin gave himself a bit of time to recover both sleep and inspiration. Having regained his strength, he is now on the verge of initiating a new chapter of scientific collaboration with Hereon under the supervision of Dr Johannes Bieser!

by tina

Outstanding Poster Award 2024 at the Arctic Frontiers Conference Actions & Reactions in Tromsø, Norway

GMOS Train ESR Sonja Gindorf from Stockholm University received the Outstanding Poster Award 2024 at the Arctic Frontiers Conference Actions & Reactions in Tromsø, Norway, last week. The award is given by Arctic Frontiers and APECS (Association of Polar Early Career Scientists). Sonja’s poster entitled “Arctic Ecosystem Mercury Speciation and Distribution North of Svalbard during the NPI Arctic Ocean II Expedition” illustrated the mercury work Sonja carried out during an Arctic Ocean expedition in August 2023.

The Norwegian Polar Institute, the Arctic Council, and AMAP organized and funded the cruise. Sonja took part in the cruise based on an application through the Swedish Polar Secretariat.

by tina

Important Updates for ICMGP Conference Attendees: Abstract Submission Deadline and GMOS-Train Meeting

As the International Conference on Mercury as a Global Pollutant (ICMGP) draws near, we would like to bring your attention to some crucial updates.

1. Abstract Submission Deadline:
The deadline for abstract submission is on 31st January 2024. If you haven't already submitted your abstract, we encourage you to do so promptly. For detailed information and to submit your abstract, please visit the ICMGP Conference Abstract Submission

2. GMOS-Train Meeting in Cape Town:
With the upcoming GMOS-Train gathering in Cape Town, we are planning a pre or post-conference meeting, followed by a social event. To help us make the necessary arrangements, please inform prof. Horvat of your plans to attend.

3. Sponsorship Opportunities:
In our commitment to inclusivity, we are actively exploring sponsorship opportunities, particularly for Early Stage Researchers (ESRs) who may face funding challenges. Your prompt response regarding your attendance is highly valued.

We appreciate your collaboration and look forward to your active involvement in the ICMGP.

Best regards,

Prof. Milena Horvat

by tina

ESR Sonja Gindorf Clinches Top Prize at Bolin Days Climate Research Poster Competition

Our ESR, Sonja Gindorf, won the first prize at the Bolin Days for climate research at Stockholm University, a poster competition for early career scientists.

The Bolin Days is an internal conference organized by the Bolin Centre for Climate Research in Stockholm, Sweden. The two-day event serves as a platform for members to present new results in climate science in a multi-disciplinary environment. The poster exhibition includes a poster competition for early career scientists who are encouraged to present their research creatively and innovatively. The competition is judged by a jury of leadership, experts from the different Bolin Centre research themes, and External Science Advisory Group members based on criteria such as Overall appearance, Organization & flow, Clarity of content as well as Engagement and interaction.

The first prize is SEK 15,000, the second prize is SEK 10,000, and the third prize is SEK 5,000 in research money.

Awarded poster The Role of Catchment Properties for Mercury Transport and Bioaccumulation

Congratulations to Sonja!

by tina

GMOS-Train Knowledge Lab on COP-5

The Secretariat of the Minamata Convention on Mercury is delighted to extend additional avenues for knowledge exchange and information dissemination during the upcoming fifth meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Minamata Convention on Mercury (COP-5). These avenues are embodied in the form of special sessions known as "Knowledge Labs."

These Knowledge Labs present an exceptional opportunity for event organizers to interact with COP-5 participants and present their work in a dynamic and open setting. Each Knowledge Lab session will consist of a 45-minute poster presentation, fostering engaging discussions and insights.

We are excited to announce that the GMOS-Train Knowledge Lab is scheduled for November 3rd, from 14:00 to 14:45.

Gmos-Train COP 5 PRESENTATION

by tina

Reno Workshop in Measurement of Atmospheric Mercury

Jožef Stefan Institue's team, comprised of Prof. Dr. Milena Horvat, Dr. Igor Živkovic, and Sreekanth Vijayakumaran Nair (GMOS-Train ESR 2), recently attended a three-day workshop in Nevada organized by the University of Nevada, Reno, in the United States.

The workshop on the topic ˝Measurement of Atmospheric Mercury: Assessment of New Measurement and Calibration Methods and Development of a Path Forward˝ aimed to address critical aspects of atmospheric mercury measurements, calibration, and the research needed to overcome current limitations. This workshop holds great significance for Sreekanth’s ongoing Ph.D. research work within the GMOS-Train project. The workshop was based on numerous presentations, demonstrations, lab visits, breakout sessions, and roundtable discussions on crucial topics related to atmospheric mercury measurement and calibration methods. Participation in this workshop will contribute significantly to Sreekanth’s research progress and provide him with a unique opportunity to network with leading scientists in the field. The insights gained from this workshop will undoubtedly enhance the quality and scope of his research, ultimately benefiting the scientific community as a whole. Moreover, the experience gained will also have a positive impact on our ESR’s career prospects. An important outcome of the workshop was the commitment to publish a peer-reviewed paper. This publication would disseminate the workshop's findings and outcomes to the broader scientific community, ensuring the knowledge gained reaches a wider audience.

by tina

A decade of global commitment to make mercury history

Ten years ago, on 10 October, 2013, the international community took a key step forward by signing the Minamata Convention on Mercury. This multilateral environmental agreement, named after the bay in Japan where mercury-tainted industrial wastewater poisoned thousands of people in the mid-20th century, later came into force in 2017. Nowadays, the Minamata Convention plays a crucial role in helping countries to control, reduce and eliminate mercury across all its life-stages.

“We at UNEP are proud to host the Secretariat for this Convention, which protects the environment and human health from the pernicious impacts of this dangerous neurotoxin”, stated Inger Andersen, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Executive Director. “I call on all nations and all partners to redouble their efforts at COP-5 to protect human health and the environment from mercury pollution and help attain a pollution-free planet”.

Watch below a special video focusing on the journey of the Minamata Convention since its adoption in 2013 and all the pivotal work ahead.

How the Convention is aiming to end mercury’s millennia-long toxic run

On the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the adoption of the Minamata Convention on Mercury, read this story by the UN Environment Programme on the journey that made the treaty what it is today, including interviews with key personalities from the history of the Convention.

Monika Stankiewicz, Executive Secretary of the Minamata Convention, underlined that “it is a commitment of now nearly 150 parties and many stakeholders to act to eliminate the use of mercury in daily life and processes, to control its emissions and also ensure no suffering due to mercury poisoning”. She added that, “as we move forward to make mercury history, I hope to see more countries joining the Convention in the near future”.

Get ready: Fifth meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP-5)

The fifth meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Minamata Convention (COP-5, 30 October - 3 November in Geneva, Switzerland), will focus on further reducing mercury use in industrial processes and consumer products, strengthening the implementation of national action plans, and making crucial progress on measuring the Convention's effectiveness. Read here the COP-5 media advisory to know what to expect.

Ahead of the fifth meeting, register now to the COP-5 online events (from 9 to 13 October) that comprise 22 sessions held throughout the week. These series of online events provide an informal platform for Parties and observers to share information and knowledge as part of COP-5.

by tina