Basics of Microbiology as they Apply to Forensics

Overview

Dr. Bruce Budowle, of the University of North Texas Health Science Center, and Dr. Dana Kadavy, Director of Biological Sciences at Signature Science, LLC, presented on microbiology, pathogens, human microbiome, and genetic engineering/synthetic biology. Participants will gain a better understanding of microbiology as applied to microbial forensics and the role it plays in combating bioterrorism. The microbial world is vast and diverse. While some microorganisms are beneficial, there are others that cause disease and have been used as bioweapons to cause harm to people, animals, and plants, the effects of which may have a serious impact on our health, economy and general safety.

Understanding basic microbiology, the indicators of development and use of bioweapons, and the associated risks for victims can be important for the forensic scientist who may be the first exposed to this type of crime scene evidence. Over the past few years there have been substantial technical and bioinformatic advances which enhance the capability to type microbial evidence as well as expand to the characterization of microbes and their products, therefore supporting a wider range of forensic investigations. In this webinar series, Dr. Budowle leveraged his extensive research background and provided critical information which will be foundational to understanding the current application of microbial forensics to combating biological crimes. The final product from this webinar series is a guidance document which may be used to inform forensic scientists and other stakeholders on the basics of Microbial Forensics in order to drive considerations and discussions pertaining to policy development addressing microbial forensic applications.

A certificate of completion is available for all who register and attend this webinar.

Presenters

• Dr. Bruce Budowle
• Dr. Dana Kadavy