Science meeting set for Memphis

The Commercial Appeal
October 13, 2007
By Daniel Connolly

Scientists from around the world are expected in Memphis for the annual meeting of the Federation of Analytical Chemistry and Spectroscopy Societies.

The meeting runs Sunday through Thursday and is meant for analytical chemists, scientists whose training equips them to learn as much as possible about the makeup of a substance, said conference organizer Paul Bourassa.

"Analytical chemists are like the detectives of science," he said.

They often work in research, quality control or manufacturing processes.

"They can tell you a lot about what you have in your hand, or what's in the process or what's in the product," he said. "Or in the biological field, what's in the patient."

Bourassa, an analytical chemist by training, is director of manufacturing and distribution for Lifeblood and said he has tried hard for years to bring the conference to Memphis.

"I think this is a great opportunity for the Memphis area to be put on the international scientific map with a conference of this stature," Bourassa said.

The conference is one of several high-tech meetings held in Memphis recently. The Fifth Annual Musculoskeletal New Ventures Conference, a meeting between small companies and big-name venture capital firms, wrapped up earlier this week.

The gathering at the Memphis Cook Convention Center will feature items including oral presentations and a trade show. It's expected to attract about 900 people.

One of the highlights is a special gathering at Elvis Presley's mansion.

"Two hundred chemists at Graceland," Bourassa said. "That should be an event in itself.

-- Daniel Connolly: 529-5296

FACSS 2007

For more information about the Federation of Analytical Chemistry and Spectroscopy Societies conference, call (505) 820-1648 or go online to facss.org.