Headspace Gas Chromatography with a Flame Ionization Detector

This course provides a comprehensive overview of headspace gas chromatography coupled with flame ionization detection (HS-GC-FID), a cornerstone technique in forensic toxicology and alcohol analysis. Developed and presented by David Zimmerman, Assistant Laboratory Director at the Kern Regional Crime Laboratory, the course blends practical bench experience with management-level insights from over a decade in forensic science.

Through this course, participants will:

• Understand headspace sampling — what it is, why it is used, and how it applies to forensic toxicology.
• Explore gas chromatography — its underlying principles, system components, and how to develop or modify analytical methods.
• Examine flame ionization detection — including detector theory, advantages, limitations, and common troubleshooting strategies.

Designed for forensic scientists, toxicologists, and laboratory professionals, this course emphasizes both the theoretical foundations and the practical considerations necessary for reliable HS-GC-FID analysis in criminal justice and forensic laboratory settings.