Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: ISO 17025 • Limit of Detection • Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)

HPLC

Term from Laboratory Testing industry explained for recruiters

HPLC (High Performance Liquid Chromatography) is a standard laboratory technique used to separate, identify, and measure different substances in a mixture. Think of it like a very sophisticated filtering system that helps scientists determine exactly what's in a sample. It's commonly used in pharmaceutical companies, food safety testing, environmental monitoring, and medical laboratories. When you see HPLC on a resume, it means the person has experience operating these specialized instruments and analyzing the results. Other similar techniques include Gas Chromatography (GC) or Mass Spectrometry (MS), which are all ways to analyze samples in a laboratory setting.

Examples in Resumes

Performed quality control testing using HPLC techniques for pharmaceutical products

Analyzed environmental samples with HPLC and documented results according to EPA standards

Maintained and calibrated HPLC equipment for routine laboratory testing

Developed new testing methods using High Performance Liquid Chromatography for food safety analysis

Typical job title: "HPLC Analysts"

Also try searching for:

Laboratory Analyst Analytical Chemist QC Analyst Research Scientist Laboratory Technician Quality Control Specialist Chromatography Specialist

Where to Find HPLC Analysts

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Professional Networks

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you validate a new HPLC method for regulatory compliance?

Expected Answer: A senior analyst should explain the process of method validation including accuracy, precision, specificity, linearity, and reproducibility testing. They should mention documentation requirements and regulatory standards like FDA or EPA guidelines.

Q: What steps would you take to troubleshoot irregular HPLC results?

Expected Answer: Should describe a systematic approach to problem-solving, including checking instrument parameters, sample preparation, column conditions, and mobile phase composition. Should mention documentation and quality control measures.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you ensure quality control in HPLC analysis?

Expected Answer: Should discuss calibration procedures, running standards, system suitability tests, and maintaining proper documentation. Should mention following SOPs and GLP guidelines.

Q: Explain your experience with sample preparation for HPLC analysis.

Expected Answer: Should describe different sample preparation techniques, understanding of proper handling procedures, and importance of consistency in preparation methods.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What safety procedures do you follow when operating HPLC equipment?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of basic laboratory safety, proper handling of chemicals, use of personal protective equipment, and awareness of emergency procedures.

Q: How do you maintain laboratory records for HPLC analysis?

Expected Answer: Should explain basic documentation practices, understanding of laboratory notebooks, data recording, and importance of following standard operating procedures.