The invention generally relates to systems and methods for sample analysis. In certain embodiments, the invention provides systems for analyzing a sample that include an electric source, a vacuum chamber including a conducting member, in which the conducting member is coupled to the electric source, a sample introduction member coupled to the vacuum chamber, and a mass analyzer. The system is configured such that a distal end of the sample introduction member resides within the vacuum chamber and proximate the conducting member, such that an electrical discharge may be produced between the sample introduction member and the conducting member. A neutral gas that has been introduced into the vacuum chamber interacts with the generated discharge, producing ions within the vacuum chamber that are subsequently transferred into the mass analyzer in the vacuum chamber.