The focus of this Symposium is the application of mass spectrometry (MS) for product characterization, process monitoring, formulation development and release testing in the pharmaceutical industry. Since mass spectrometry is used routinely for a wide array of applications, the meeting will provide scientists in the industry an opportunity to share their data and learn from their colleagues. Although most of the applications may deal with biopharmaceuticals (proteins, DNA, viral vectors), applications for conventional pharmaceuticals will also be discussed.