logo
School of Biosciences, Division of
Food Sciences
   
   
  
 

Rob Linforth

Principal Research Fellow, Faculty of Science

Contact

Expertise Summary

My research career started in the field of plant hormone analysis, during which I learnt a range of analytical skills (Thin Layer Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid Chromatography, Gas Chromatography - Mass Spectrometry), which were used in the discovery of the biosynthetic origins of the plant hormone Abscisic Acid (ABA). This involved the isolation of metabolites from batches of plant tissue for their identification and the development of assays for their quantification.

In 1991, I transferred to the Food Chemistry group, to develop new research areas, work with industrial companies on short term objectives and run the research laboratory. I have worked in close association with industrial companies on both a short term and a long term basis; developing methodology, guiding research programs and presenting results.

One of the long term research objectives of the Food Chemistry group was to develop methodology for the real-time analysis of volatiles in the breath during eating. This would enable us to study the effects of the food matrix, human physiology, or the aroma compounds themselves, on volatile release in mouth. I was responsible for the design of the gas phase interface which was patented and went into commercial production.

I am now responsible for co-ordination and supervision of a range of projects across the School of Biosciences, principally within flavour science, but, also encompassing the investigation of pheromone release from insects, biochemical studies of plant tissues and fungicide residue analysis. In parallel with my analytical skills, I have also developed interests in statistical analyses and modelling, using techniques such as principle component analysis, partial least squares regression and non-linear multivariate regression analysis.

Recent Publications

Division of Food Sciences

University of Nottingham
Sutton Bonington Campus
Loughborough, Leicestershire LE12 5RD

telephone: +44 (0) 115 951 6141
email: lynne.moseley@nottingham.ac.uk