All of our webinars, reports, podcast episodes, and other educational resources are available to the public at no cost.
Funding for the Forensic Technology Center of Excellence has been provided by the National Institute of Justice.
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Just Sexual Assault Response for Cases without DNA Evidence
Original Release Date: April 19, 2024 In this 2024 Sexual Assault Awareness Month special release episode, Just Science sat down with Erin House, Special Assistant Attorney General in Michigan; Richard Johnson, Kalamazoo SAKI Investigator; and Lindsey King, Kalamazoo Community-based Victim…
DNA Recovery After Sequential Processing of Latent Fingerprints on Black Polyethylene Plastic
Publication Journal of Forensic Sciences, February 2024 Authors Abigail S. Bathrick | Bode Technology Sarah Norsworthy | RTI International Dane T. Plaza | Bode Technology Mallory N. McCormick | United States Secret Service Donia Slack | RTI International Robert S. Ramotowski | United States Secret Service …
Intelligence and the Value of Forensic Science
Publication Forensic Sciences, March 2024 Author Paul J. Speaker | West Virginia University Abstract Recent research has seen a rapid expansion in the reference to front-end forensics as an indication of the untapped value of forensic science. While some of…
FBI Laboratory Decision Analysis Studies in Pattern Evidence Examinations
← Back to Webinar Series Page This webinar originally occurred on March 19, 2024 Duration: 1 hour Overview From 2007 through the present, the FBI Laboratory has led a series of decision analysis “black-box” studies aimed at evaluating the accuracy,…
Humanitarian and Human Rights Resource Center Virtual Library 2024
← Back to the HHRRC Special Initiative The Humanitarian and Human Rights Resource Center (HHRRC), an organization within the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) and the Forensic Sciences Foundation (FSF) supported by the National Institute of Justice’s (NIJ’s) Forensic…
2024 NIJ Forensic Science R&D Symposium
Overview The Forensic Technology Center of Excellence (FTCOE) assisted the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) in hosting the annual NIJ Forensic Science Research and Development (R&D) Symposium on Tuesday, February 20, 2024 at the 76th Annual American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) conference in Denver, Colorado. This…
Just Lessons Learned in Forensic Technology Transition
Original Release Date: February 2, 2024 In episode four of our Roadmap to Improving Technology Transition season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Catherine Grgicak, Associate Professor of Chemistry at Rutgers University-Camden, and Stephanie Stoiloff, Chief of the Forensic Services…
Just Enhancing Research to Improve Tech Transition
Original Release Date: January 26, 2024 In episode three of our Roadmap to Improving Technology Transition season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Catherine Grgicak, Associate Professor of Chemistry at Rutgers University Camden, and Henry Maynard, Lead Research Scientist for…
2023 Year in Review
A Message from the Forensic Technology Center of Excellence Another year in the books, and so much has happened! In 2023, the Forensic Technology Center of Excellence (FTCOE) hosted various virtual events and delivered numerous online resources – including 6…
Just Building Partnerships to Advance Forensic Technology
Original Release Date: January 19, 2024 In episode two of our Roadmap to Improving Technology Transition season, Just Science sat down with Cleveland Miles, Director of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation’s Division of Forensic Science, and Henry Maynard, Lead Research…
Just Improving Forensic Technology Transition
Original Release Date: January 12, 2024 In episode one of our Roadmap to Improving Technology Transition season, Just Science sat down with Lucas Zarwell, Director of the Office of Investigative and Forensic Sciences at the National Institute of Justice, and…
White Paper – Information Sharing Between Medicolegal Death Investigators and Toxicology Testing Services
Date December 2023 Overview The National Institute of Justice (NIJ)-in partnership with its Forensic Technology Center of Excellence (FTCOE) at RTI International and the National Center for Health Statistics, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)-convened a virtual Medicolegal Death…
Success Story: NIJ and The New York City OCME Validating Confirmatory Body Fluid Identification Assays for Real-World Impact
National Institute of Justice and The New York City OCME Date December 2023 Overview Support from the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) enabled the New York City OCME to develop and validate proteomic mass spectrometry body fluid assays to support…
What FSSP Leaders Should Know about Artificial Intelligence and its Application to Forensic Science In-Brief
Date December 2023 Overview Artificial intelligence (AI), which leverages computers to perform tasks that enhance decision-making, problem-solving capabilities, and technology-driven innovativeness,” is a rapidly growing area of interest for both industry and the federal research and development (R&D) community.1 For forensic science service…
What Medical Examiner’s and Coroner’s Offices Should Know about Molecular Autopsy
Date December 2023 Overview A molecular autopsy consists of “postmortem genetic testing of decedents who died naturally, suddenly, and unexpectedly at young ages.” Molecular autopsies can enable a more accurate determination of cause of death in cases where the scene…
2024 ASCLD Emerging Issues Webinar Series
← FTCOE ASCLD All Resources Page Overview Through a partnership with the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors (ASCLD), the FTCOE is pleased to present another ASCLD Emerging Issues webinar series with tools you can use. Each webinar in this…
Topic of Interest: Forensic Testimony, Smith v. Arizona
Date December 2023 Overview On September 29, 2023, the Supreme Court granted certiorari for the case of Smith v. Arizona (docket 22-899).1 The key question before the Court is “whether the Confrontation Clause of the Sixth Amendment permits the prosecution…
Virtual Workshop Series: Qualifications of an Expert Witness for Legal Professionals
Overview North Carolina State University (NCSU) and the Forensic Technology Center of Excellence (FTCOE) hosted a two-part virtual workshop series on the Qualifications of an Expert Witness for Legal Professionals. This workshop series discussed topics surrounding qualifications of expert witnesses…
Physical Characteristics of Spatter Stains on Textiles
This webinar originally occurred on December 12, 2023Duration: 1 hour Overview Bloodstain pattern analysis (BPA) is a forensic technique for crime scene reconstruction, through analyzing bloodstains (e.g., size, shape, etc.) and their patterns (e.g., distribution, location, etc.) to recreate the…
Validation of a Confirmatory Proteomic Mass Spectrometry Body Fluid Assay
← Back to Webinar Series Page This webinar originally occurred on December 7, 2023Duration: 1 hour Overview With increasingly sensitive forensic methods for DNA detection, the source from which a DNA profile is obtained becomes increasingly important. Was an individual’s…
Improving Methods Using Machine Learning and Databases in Forensic Anthropology
← Back to Webinar Series Page This webinar originally occurred on December 5, 2023Duration: 1 hour Overview Part I: GeoFOR presented by Katherine Weisensee, Ph.D.Estimating the time since death, or the postmortem interval (PMI), poses a significant challenge to forensic…
Advances in Chemical Sorting of Commingled Remains
← Back to Webinar Series Page This webinar originally occurred on November 30, 2023 Duration: 1 hour Overview A major challenge in forensic anthropology is the development of efficient and effective methodologies for sorting skeletal remains in mixed assemblages. The…
Just Footwear Impressions on Fabric
Original Release Date: November 24, 2023 In episode 8 of our Case Studies season, Just Science sat down with Brian McVicker, a Forensic Footwear and Tire Examiner at the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), to discuss developing shoe and tire…
Just Collecting Fingerprints Without Contact
Original Release Date: November 17, 2023 In episode seven of our Case Studies season, Just Science sat down with Ross Krewenka, Product Manager for IDEMIA, and Mike Ransom, Automated Print Manager for the Michigan State Police, to discuss the development…
Advancing Research and Collaborative Research Partnerships in Forensic Science
← Back to Webinar Series Page ← FTCOE ASCLD All Resources Page This webinar originally occurred on November 14, 2023 Duration: 1 hour Overview With the ever-increasing volume of evidence being submitted to forensic laboratories coupled with the growing demand…
FLN-TWG: A Roadmap to Improve Research and Technology Transition in Forensic Science
← Back to FLN-TWG Main Page Forensic Laboratory Needs Technology Working Group (FLN-TWG) The National Institute of Justice (NIJ), in partnership with the Forensic Technology Center of Excellence (FTCOE) at RTI International, formed the Forensic Laboratory Needs Technology Working Group…
2023 National Forensic Science Week Puzzle DNA Examination Wordsearch
← Back to Main Page ← Back to All Puzzles Page Puzzle Instruction To view and complete the puzzle in a separate window, click the expanding arrows in the tool bar above the puzzle title. To input your answers click…
2023 National Forensic Science Week Murder Mystery Event
← Back to Main Page Overview As part of National Forensic Science Week 2023 (September 18-22, 2023), the Forensic Technology Center of Excellence (FTCOE) is offering a murder mystery event! For this year’s murder mystery, we will be reopening a…
2023 National Forensic Science Week Puzzle DNA Examination Crossword
← Back to Main Page ← Back to All Puzzles Page Puzzle Instruction To view and complete the puzzle in a separate window, click the expanding arrows in the tool bar above the puzzle title. To input your answers select…
2023 National Forensic Science Week Puzzle Fingerprint Examination Wordsearch
← Back to Main Page ← Back to All Puzzles Page Puzzle Instruction To view and complete the puzzle in a separate window, click the expanding arrows in the tool bar above the puzzle title. To input your answers click…
2023 National Forensic Science Week Puzzle Fingerprint Examination Crossword
← Back to Main Page ← Back to All Puzzles Page Puzzle Instruction To view and complete the puzzle in a separate window, click the expanding arrows in the tool bar above the puzzle title. To input your answers select…
2023 National Forensic Science Week Spot the Differences
← Back to Main Page Overview Attention to detail is an essential skill across forensic disciplines. Can you spot the differences between the original and altered images below? How many differences can you find? Game Instructions How to Play (Online): …
2023 National Forensic Science Week Puzzle In the Courtroom Wordsearch
← Back to Main Page ← Back to All Puzzles Page Puzzle Instruction To view and complete the puzzle in a separate window, click the expanding arrows in the tool bar above the puzzle title. To input your answers click…
2023 Graduate Research Symposium and Poster Session
← Back to Main Page Overview This event originally occurred on September 20, 2023 Welcome to the 2023 Forensic Science Graduate Research Symposium and Poster Session hosted by the Forensic Technology Center of Excellence (FTCOE)! In 2022, the FTCOE hosted…
2023 National Forensic Science Week Puzzle In the Courtroom Crossword
← Back to Main Page ← Back to All Puzzles Page Puzzle Instruction To view and complete the puzzle in a separate window, click the expanding arrows in the tool bar above the puzzle title. To input your answers select…
2023 National Forensic Science Week Puzzle Crime Scene Examination Crossword
← Back to Main Page ← Back to All Puzzles Page Puzzle Instruction To view and complete the puzzle in a separate window, click the expanding arrows in the tool bar above the puzzle title. To input your answers select…
2023 National Forensic Science Week Fingerprint Game & Activity
← Back to Main Page Fingerprint Memory & Association Activities Challenge your short-term memory and attention to detail with variations of this fingerprint game. View the prints on the webpage or download the printable PDF versions with varying levels of…
2023 National Forensic Science Week Puzzle Crime Scene Examination Wordsearch
← Back to Main Page ← Back to All Puzzles Page Puzzle Instruction To view and complete the puzzle in a separate window, click the expanding arrows in the tool bar above the puzzle title. To input your answers click…
2023 National Forensic Science Week Puzzle Firearms Examination Crossword
← Back to Main Page ← Back to All Puzzles Page Puzzle Instruction To view and complete the puzzle in a separate window, click the expanding arrows in the tool bar above the puzzle title. To input your answers select…
2023 National Forensic Science Week Interview Montage
← Back to Main Page Overview In the past, the FTCOE has released written interviews with forensic practitioners in various stages of their career and working in various forensic disciplines. This year, we created a video comprised of multiple interviews with forensic practitioners from seasoned subject matter experts to young professionals early…
2023 National Forensic Science Week Puzzle Firearms Examination Wordsearch
← Back to Main Page ← Back to All Puzzles Page Puzzle Instruction To view and complete the puzzle in a separate window, click the expanding arrows in the tool bar above the puzzle title. To input your answers click…
2023 National Forensic Science Week Puzzles
← Back to Main Page Overview Each day, the FTCOE will release a crossword and wordsearch puzzle with fun forensic science themes that incorporate some terminology trivia and stress relieving activities for all ages. Find the Terms wordsearches offer a…
2023 National Forensic Science Week Teacher How-To Guides
← Back to Main Page Overview Calling all science teachers! Are you looking for fun, forensic activities and experiments that you can use with your class or share with fellow forensic science enthusiasts? This year for National Forensic Science Week,…
2023 National Forensic Science Week
Overview National Forensic Science Week (September 18-22, 2023) recognizes the contribution that forensic science makes to the criminal justice system. It is an opportunity to celebrate academic programs, forensic professionals, and scientific research in the various forensic disciplines. Throughout the…
Vaping in the Weeds: The Merging of the E-cigarette and Cannabis Industries
← Back to Webinar Series Page This webinar originally occurred on June 29, 2023 Duration: 1 hour Overview The modern e-cigarette was developed for the vaping of nicotine. The nicotine e-cigarette device and associated e-liquids were federally unregulated until 2016.…
Just Workplace Stress and Its Impact on Decision-Making in Forensics
Original Release Date: May 12, 2023 In this Special Release episode, Just Science sat down with Dr. Mohammed Almazrouei, a forensic practitioner with the Abu Dhabi Police, to discuss his dissertation work, which examines how workplace stressors may affect decision-making…
2023 NIJ Forensic Science R&D Symposium
Overview The Forensic Technology Center of Excellence (FTCOE) assisted the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) in hosting the annual NIJ Forensic Science Research and Development (R&D) Symposium on February 14, 2023 at the 75th Annual American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS)…
Humanitarian and Human Rights Resource Center Virtual Library 2023
← Back to the HHRRC Special Initiative The Humanitarian and Human Rights Resource Center (HHRRC), an organization within the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) supported by the National Institute of Justice’s (NIJ’s) Forensic Technology Center of Excellence (FTCOE), hosted…
The Increased Value of Forensic Science to Lead Gun Crime Investigations
← Back to Webinar Series Page ← FTCOE ASCLD All Resources Page Part I originally occurred on January 16, 2024Duration: 1 hour Part II originally occurred on January 23, 2024Duration: 1 hour Overview The United States has seen the number…
2022 Year in Review
A Message from the Forensic Technology Center of Excellence Another year in the books, and so much has happened! In 2022, the Forensic Technology Center of Excellence (FTCOE) hosted various virtual events and delivered numerous online resources – including 6…
Just Identifying Lake Erie John Doe
Original Release Date: December 16, 2022 In the final episode of our Case Studies: Part 2 mini season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Thomas Gilson, Dr. Harmeet Kaur, and Hristina Lekova with the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner’s Office, to…
Just Identifying Gacy’s Victims Part 2
Original Release Date: December 9, 2022 In episode three of our Case Studies: Part 2 mini season, Just Science sat down again with Jason Moran, Commander of Police at the Cook County Sheriff’s Office, to continue discussing how his Forensic…
Just Identifying Gacy’s Victims Part 1
Original Release Date: December 2, 2022 In episode two of our Case Studies: Part 2 mini season, Just Science sat down with Jason Moran, Commander of Police at the Cook County Sheriff’s Office, to discuss how he and his colleagues…
The NIJ Forensic Laboratory Needs Technology Working Group – Progress to Date and Future Plans
Date November 2022 Overview Recognizing the many challenges associated with adopting new technologies and other innovations in forensic science organizations, the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) formed the Forensic Laboratory Needs Technology Working Group (FLN-TWG) in 2018. FLN-TWG provides a…
Audio Forensic Analysis Procedures for User Generated Audio Recordings
This webinar originally occurred on November 29, 2022 Duration: 1 hour Overview The widespread use of handheld smartphones and other devices capable of recording audio and video means that user generated recordings (UGRs) are increasingly presented as evidence in criminal…
Just Autopsy Results and Crime Scene Reconstruction
Original Release Date: November 25, 2022 In episode one of our Case Studies: Part 2 mini season, Just Science sat down with Kelly Ayers, an International Association for Identification certified Senior Crime Scene Analyst, to discuss how preliminary autopsy results…
In-Brief Report Series: Digital Transformation of Cold Case Reviews
Date November 2022 Overview Advances in forensic science and investigative capabilities represent opportunities and challenges for allied criminal justice professionals involved in violent crime cold case investigations. Modern techniques and technologies can uncover important insights that may not have been…
Evaluation of Purdue University’s 3D Imaging Prototype for Footwear and Tire Impressions
Date September 2022 Overview Supported by two National Institute of Justice (NIJ) awards (2016-DN-BX-0189 and 2019-R2-CX-0069), Dr. Song Zhang and his research team at Purdue University led the development of a fully automated 3D imaging system for footwear and tire…
2022 National Forensic Science Week FTCOE Student Research Poster Session
← Back to Main Page Overview Thursday, September 22, 2022 | Posters will be available at 1:00 PM Eastern Welcome to our virtual poster session! As fall semester begins and in honor of National Forensic Science Week (September 18-24, 2022),…
2022 NIJ Forensic Science Graduate Research Symposium
← Back to Main Page Overview This event originally occurred on September 20, 2022 Duration: 2 hours The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) has long hosted an annual Forensic Science Research and Development Symposium in which NIJ grantees present their…
2022 National Forensic Science Week
Overview National Forensic Science Week (September 18-24, 2022) recognizes the contribution that forensic science makes to the criminal justice system. It is an opportunity to celebrate academic programs, forensic professionals, and scientific research in the various forensic disciplines. Throughout the…
Society of Forensic Anthropologists Webinar Series
Overview The Society of Forensic Anthropologists (SOFA) is a non-profit organization comprised of active American Academy of Forensic Science members who are forensic anthropology practitioners. SOFA promotes communication and cooperation among forensic anthropologists and is committed to professional growth and…
Human Factors in Forensic Science Practice
This webinar originally occurred on June 21, 2022Duration: 1 hour Overview Human factors may encompass any way in which people’s psychological or physiological attributes affect a system or process. Physiological considerations include things like the ergonomics of laboratory workstations or…
Forensic Science State Commissions and Oversight Bodies – 2022 Update
Date June 2022 Overview In the United States, many states have established forensic science oversight bodies, which take many forms and have myriad roles and responsibilities. In all cases, however, these forensic science oversight bodies help ensure complete, accurate, and…
A Landscape Study Examining Technologies and Automation for Differential Extraction and Sperm Separation for Sexual Assault Investigations
Date May 2022 Overview The National Institute of Justice’s (NIJ) Forensic Technology Center of Excellence (FTCOE), led by RTI International, provides valuable resources that promote the use of technologies in the forensic community. Differential extraction is a technique that allows…
Reports of Adverse Events Associated with Use of Novel Psychoactive Substances, 2017–2020: A Review
Publication Journal of Analytical Toxicology, April 2022 Authors Amanda L A Mohr | Center for Forensic Science Research and Education Barry K Logan | Center for Forensic Science Research and Education Melissa F Fogarty | Center for Forensic Science Research…
Human Factors in Forensic Science Practice Sourcebook
Publication Forensic Science International: Synergy, March 2022 Editors Heidi Eldridge, PhD | RTI International Barbara A. Spellman, JD, PhD | University of Virginia School of Law Thomas Busey, PhD | Indiana University, Psychological and Brain Sciences Working Group Members Paul…
Annual Infographics
The 2022 Forensic Technology Center of Excellence’s Annual Metrics Report and infographic is here! View all Annual Metrics Reports and infographics below! Contact us at ForensicCOE@rti.org with any questions and subscribe to our newsletter for notifications. Related Content
2022 NIJ Forensic Science R&D Symposium
Overview The Forensic Technology Center of Excellence (FTCOE) assisted the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) in hosting the annual NIJ Forensic Science Research and Development (R&D) Symposium on March 1st & 2nd, 2022 from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM Eastern.…
2022 Humanitarian and Human Rights Resource Center Virtual Library
← Back to the HHRRC Special Initiative The Humanitarian and Human Rights Resource Center (HHRRC), an organization within the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) supported by the National Institute of Justice’s (NIJ) Forensic Technology Center of Excellence (FTCOE), hosted…
Capturing Key Research Outcomes Using Short Video Vignettes: A Guidance Document
Date February 2022 Author David Matthew | David Matthew LLC, Wichita, Kansas Overview This document outlines the process of designing engaging video vignettes to disseminate results from complex research projects in a manner that is easily digestible by practitioners. More…
The Field Application of GC/MS For Fire & Arson Investigations Video Series
← Additional Portable Instrumentation for On-Scene Fire Debris Analysis Resources Overview The purpose of this project was to design engaging video vignettes to disseminate results from a complex research project. The project team developed a guidance document that specifically describes…
U.S. National Footwear Database System Feasibility Study
This webinar originally occurred on February 15, 2022. Duration: 1 hour Overview Shoeprints at crime scenes, along with suspects’ footwear, are routinely collected and analyzed by qualified examiners in crime laboratories and forensic units to identify, include, or exclude suspects’…
A Unique Approach to a Crime Gun Intelligence Center with the Inclusion and Support of 3D Virtual Comparison Technologies
This webinar originally occurred on February 10, 2022. Duration: 1.5 hours Overview Any effective Crime Gun Intelligence Program relies on the expeditious processing of firearms-related evidence to achieve the goal of intelligence led firearms-based investigations. The possible intelligence gained through…
2022 Firearm and Toolmarks Policy and Practice Forum
Overview The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) and the Forensic Technology Center of Excellence (FTCOE) delivered a four-day, no-cost, virtual Firearm and Toolmarks Policy and Practice Forum on January 11-14, 2022. It is a pivotal time for the forensic pattern…
2021 Year in Review
A Message from the Forensic Technology Center of Excellence Another year in-the-books and so much has happened! In 2021, the Forensic Technology Center of Excellence (FTCOE) hosted a wide range of virtual events and offered online resources amidst an ongoing pandemic. With…
The Effect of Time on Rusted Firearm Identification
← Back to Firearm and Toolmarks Webinar Series This webinar originally occurred on January 6, 2022 Duration: 1 hour Overview Since the development of early firearms in the mid-1200s, the best material for making critical parts for weapons has been…
Just Advanced Capabilities in Firearm and Toolmark Analysis
Original Release Date: December 3, 2021 In this special release episode, Just Science sat down with Nicole Jones, the Director of the Forensic Science Translation and Implementation Program in the Center for Forensic Sciences at RTI International, and John Grassel,…
Just Literature on Stress & Resiliency in Forensic Science
Original Release Date: November 12, 2021 In episode four of our Workforce Resiliency mini season, Just Science sat down with Donia Slack, the Director of the Research, Technology, and Evaluation Program in RTI’s Center for Forensic Sciences, to discuss the…
Two-Pronged Study of Bullets Fired by Consecutively Rifled Barrels
← Back to Firearm and Toolmarks Webinar Series This webinar originally occurred on December 16, 2021 Duration: 1 hour Overview The 2016 President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST) Report brought forensics, and specifically firearms identification, into the…
Glock Pistol Toolmarks: A Literature Review and Introduction of Undocumented Toolmarks
← Back to Firearm and Toolmarks Webinar Series This webinar originally occurred on December 14, 2021 Duration: 1 hour Overview Glock pistols are well known for their generally distinctive class characteristics and the numerous toolmarks that they create on fired…
Exploration of Breech Face Subclass Characteristics
← Back to Firearm and Toolmarks Webinar Series This webinar originally occurred on December 9, 2021 Duration: 1 hour Overview Subclass characteristics are caused by damage, defects, and/or wear on a cutting tool that transfers to a small group of consecutively…
Firearm and Toolmarks Webinar Series
Overview With the implementation of new technologies like 3D virtual microscopy, updates to the language used in testimony and reporting, and new research including black box studies, it is a pivotal time for the forensic pattern disciplines, especially firearm and…
Just Workforce Resiliency for Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners Part 2
Original Release Date: November 5, 2021 In episode three of our Workforce Resiliency mini season, Just Science continues our conversation with Dr. Cara Berg Raunick, a women’s health nurse practitioner and the Director of Clinical Quality and Advancement at Health…
Just Workforce Resiliency for Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners Part 1
Original Release Date: October 29, 2021 In episode two of our Workforce Resiliency mini season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Cara Berg Raunick, a women’s health nurse practitioner and the Director of Clinical Quality and Advancement at Health Care Education and Training,…
Just Workforce Resiliency for MDIs
Original Release Date: October 22, 2021 In the first episode of our Workforce Resiliency season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Jennifer Rineer, a program manager and research psychologist in RTI International’s Center for Policing Research and Investigative Science, and Kelly Keyes, a research…
2021 Forensic Science Research Federal Stakeholders Public Meeting
Overview The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), in partnership with the Forensic Technology Center of Excellence (FTCOE), held a Forensic Science Research Federal Stakeholders meeting on November 8, 2021 from 9:00AM…
National Best Practices for Sexual Assault Kits: A Multidisciplinary Approach Mobile App
Go MOBILE for FREE with the National Best Practices for Sexual Assault Kits App! Get the app here or search for “National Best Practices for Sexual Assault Kits” on the Google Play Store. Google Play and the Google Play logo…
2021 National Forensic Science Week Murder Mystery Event
← Back to Main Page Overview As a part of National Forensic Science Week 2021 (September 19-25, 2021), the FTCOE is offered a murder mystery event! Each day of the week, a new evidence-based clue was revealed on the website…
2021 National Forensic Science Week Practitioner Interviews
← Back to Main Page Overview The FTCOE has conducted a variety of written interviews with forensic professionals in various stages of their careers. From recent graduates to retired professionals, the FTCOE showcases real-world perspectives on the current state of…
2021 National Forensic Science Week
Overview National Forensic Science Week (September 19-25, 2021) recognizes the contribution that forensic science makes to the criminal justice system. It is an opportunity to celebrate academic programs, forensic professionals, and scientific research in the various forensic disciplines. Throughout the…
Just Trauma-Informed Victim-centered Interviewing
Original Release Date: July 30, 2021 In episode three of our 2021 Research and Considerations for Sexual Assault Cases season, Just Science sat down with Natasha Alexenko, Jordan Satinsky, and Marya Simmons to discuss trauma informed, victim-centered interviewing for sexual assault cases. A sexual…
Just Touch DNA and Sexual Assault Groping Cases
Original Release Date: July 23, 2021 In episode two of our 2021 Research and Considerations for Sexual Assault Cases season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Julie L. Valentine, Associate Dean and Associate Professor at Brigham Young University in the College…
Just Lawfully Owed DNA
Original Release Date: July 16, 2021 In episode one of our 2021 Research and Considerations for Sexual Assault Cases season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Rachel Lovell, Research Assistant Professor at Case Western Reserve University, and Mary Weston, Assistant…
2021 Humanitarian and Human Rights Resource Center Virtual Library
← Back to the HHRRC Special Initiative The Humanitarian and Human Rights Resource Center, an organization within the American Academy of Forensic Science supported by NIJ’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence, hosted this Poster Session as an open meeting where…
Just a Guide to Sexual Assault Response Reform
Original Release Date: April 30, 2021 In episode three of our 2021 Sexual Assault Awareness Month mini season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Patricia Melton, co-director of the Bureau of Justice Assistance’s National Sexual Assault Kit Initiative Training and Technical Assistance program, to…
Just Victim Advocacy During a Pandemic
Original Release Date: April 23, 2021 In episode two of our 2021 Sexual Assault Awareness Month mini season, Just Science sat down with Marya L. Simmons, founder and CEO of Shift in Notion Consulting, to discuss victim advocacy during a pandemic. …
Perspectives on Addressing the Collection, Tracking, and Processing of Lawfully Owed DNA Samples
Date April 2021 Overview The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI’s) Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) is a powerful tool that supports the criminal justice system by generating investigative leads, identifying perpetrators, and linking cases together. DNA profiles obtained from convicted…
Just a Survivor’s Perspective and Reflection
Original Release Date: April 16, 2021 In episode one of our 2021 Sexual Assault Awareness Month mini season, Just Science sat down with author, non-profit founder, and sexual assault survivor Natasha Alexenko to discuss her book, A Survivor’s Journey, and the importance…
2021 NIJ Forensic Science R&D Symposium
Overview The Forensic Technology Center of Excellence (FTCOE) assisted the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) in hosting the annual NIJ Forensic Science Research and Development (R&D) Symposium on February 16, 2021 from 10:00 AM Eastern to 5:40 PM Eastern. NIJ…
Introduction to Touch DNA Evidence for Sexual Assault Groping Cases Video Series
Overview: The Importance of Touch DNA Evidence in Sexual Assault Groping Cases video series is presented by Dr. Julie Valentine and Heather Mills as a companion to the Journal of Forensic Nursing article entitled “Evidence Collection and Analysis for Touch…
Just Polysubstance Use and the Importance of Data Trends
Original Release Date: March 26, 2021 In episode ten of the 2021 Illicit Substance Use Response season, Just Science interviews Josh Yohannan, a forensic chemist and expert in emerging drug trends, about polysubstance use in the opioid overdose epidemic. Polysubstance use dramatically increases the potential for overdose…
Just Addressing the Stigma of Substance Abuse Disorder
Original Release Date: March 19, 2021 In episode nine of the 2021 Illicit Substance Use Response season, Just Science interviews Clarence Jordan, the Vice President of Wellness and Recovery at Beacon Health Options, to discuss stigma and its impact to programs designed to support those…
Just the DEA National Forensic Laboratory Information System
Original Release Date: March 12, 2021 In episode eight of the 2021 Illicit Substance Use Response season, Just Science interviews DeMia Pressley from the DEA’s Diversion Control Division to discuss the importance of information sharing across law enforcement and public health agencies through…
Just Building Policy From The Ground Up
Original Release Date: March 5, 2021 In episode seven of the 2021 Illicit Substance Use Response season, Just Science interviews Dr. Alex Kral, an infectious disease epidemiologist at RTI International, about innovative policy solutions to improve outcomes for people with substance use disorder. Community-based research takes place…
Just Alternative Crisis Response: One Community’s Experience
Original Release Date: February 26, 2021 In episode six of the 2021 Illicit Substance Use Response season, Just Science interviews Tim Black of the White Bird Clinic in Eugene, Oregon about the CAHOOTS program, a community-based public safety model that provides…
Just Partnerships To Enhance Overdose Fatality Review
Original Release Date: February 19, 2021 In episode five of the 2021 Illicit Substance Use Response season, Just Science interviews Dr. Mallory O’Brien, Assistant Professor at the Medical College of Wisconsin, to discuss how partnerships can enhance Overdose Fatality Reviews. The National Violent Death…
Just the Story of the Healthy Grandfamilies Project
Original Release Date: February 12, 2021 In episode four of the 2021 Illicit Substance Use Response season, Just Science sat down with Bonnie Dunn, Co-Director of the West Virginia Healthy Grandfamilies Project, to discuss a free initiative that provides information and resources to grandparents who…
Just The Importance of Identifying Emerging Drug Threats
Original Release Date: February 5, 2021 In episode three of the 2021 Illicit Substance Use Response season, Just Science sat down with Amanda Mohr and Dr. Alex Krotulski from the Center for Forensic Science Research and Education to discuss the analytical and interpretative challenges associated with emerging…
Just the Intersection of Opioids and Illicit Stimulants Part 2
Original Release Date: January 29, 2021 This week, in episode two of our 2021 Illicit Substance Use Response season Just Science continues the conversation with Dr. Jon Zibbell as he discusses the American history of drug epidemics, what we can learn from past stimulant crises, and the…
Sexual Assault Response Fact Sheets
The Forensic Technology Center of Excellence (FTCOE) is leading an effort to organize and transfer knowledge and best practices of sexual assault response to the criminal justice community. Whether through webinars, podcast episodes, reports, or conferences, the FTCOE is working…
2020 Humanitarian and Human Rights Resource Center Virtual Library
← Back to the HHRRC Special Initiative The Humanitarian and Human Rights Resource Center, an organization within the American Academy of Forensic Science supported by NIJ’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence, hosted this Poster Session as an open meeting where…
2020 Year in Review
A Message from the Forensic Technology Center of Excellence 2020 was a big year for the Forensic Technology Center of Excellence. With five podcast seasons, a full research and development symposium, our first virtual conference, eight reports, and over thirty…
Trauma and Coping Mechanisms Exhibited by Forensic Science Practitioners: A Literature Review
Publication Forensic Science International: Synergy, October 2020 Author Donia P. Slack | RTI International Abstract Vicarious trauma (VT) has been studied in mental health experts for over 30 years due to their engagement with victims of trauma and exposure to…
Forensic Science Week 2020
Overview National Forensic Science Week recognizes the contribution that forensic science makes to the criminal justice system. This year, Forensic Science Week is being held September 20-26, 2020. Throughout the week, the Forensic Technology Center of Excellence (FTCOE) is engaging…
Just Digital Evidence in the Courts of Appeals
Original Release Date: July 30, 2020 In episode three of our 2020 Digital Evidence season, Just Science interviews Martin Novak, a Computer Scientist with the National Institute of Justice, about digital evidence in the United States Court of Appeals. Digital…
Just A Public Defender’s Perspective
Original Release Date: July 23, 2020 In episode two of the 2020 Digital Evidence season, Just Science interviews Nicolas Hughes, assistant public defender with the Harris County Public Defender’s Office in Houston, TX, about the validation of tools utilized by…
ASCLD Emerging Issues: Employee Wellness – Stress, Vicarious Trauma, and Resiliency for Forensic Science Professionals
← Back to ASCLD Employee Wellness Series ← Back to Forensic Workforce Resiliency Series This webinar originally occurred on June 11, 2020 Duration: 1.5 hours Overview The phenomena of vicarious traumatization, compassion fatigue, and burnout have been described since the…
Just Applied Leadership for Resiliency in CSIs
Original Release Date: May 25, 2020 In this special release episode of Just Science, we sat down with Ashley Church and Erin West, founders of Gap Science, to discuss stress and resiliency in crime scene investigators. Traumatic death investigation can have adverse, long-term effects on crime scene…
Just COVID-19: The Impact to Supporting Victims of Sexual Assault
Original Release Date: April 24, 2020 This week on Just Science, we are publishing a special release episode in honor of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Social distancing, shelter in place, and other responses to COVID-19 can create a stressful environment…
The Researcher’s Role in Technology Transition
Date March 2020 Overview Research and development (R&D) plays a key role in improving the practice of forensic science. The knowledge, tools, and methods developed by researchers can help improve the objective collection, analysis, and interpretation of evidence. Adoption into…
Just So You Know: The HHRRC’s Impact
Original Release Date: March 4, 2020 The American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) Humanitarian and Human Rights Resource Center (HHRRC) seeks to promote humanitarian and human rights action in the field of forensic sciences. This effort would not be possible…
2020 NIJ Forensic Science R&D Symposium
Overview The Forensic Technology Center of Excellence (FTCOE) assisted the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) in hosting the annual NIJ Forensic Science Research and Development (R&D) Symposium on February 18th, 2020 at the 72nd Annual American Academy of Forensic Sciences…
Humanitarian and Human Rights Resource Center Special Initiative
Overview The Humanitarian and Human Rights Resource Center (HHRRC) seeks to utilize the assets of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) to promote the application of contemporary forensic science and forensic medicine principles to global humanitarian and/or human rights…
2019 National Institute of Justice Forensic Science Research and Development Symposium
Date February 2019 Overview The 2019 National Institute of Justice (NIJ) Forensic Science Research and Development (R&D) Symposium is intended to promote collaboration and enhance knowledge transfer of NIJ-funded research. The NIJ Forensic Science R&D Program funds both basic or…
Innovation in Forensics: A Community Effort
Innovation in Forensics: A Community Effort Date January 2020 Overview Innovation in forensic science advances new technologies and techniques to improve the scientific foundation of the field as well as the objective collection, analysis, and interpretation of evidence. These advancements…
ASCLD Train the Director – Investigative Genetic Genealogy: Background and Crime Lab Strategy
← Back to Series This webinar originally occurred on January 23, 2020 Duration: 1.5 hours Overview Investigative Genetic Genealogy is a recently developed technique that generates new leads on previously unsolved cases where DNA from the suspect is present at…
ASCLD Train the Director – Quality Assurance: Beyond Accreditation
← Back to Series This webinar originally occurred on January 9, 2020 Duration: 1.5 hours Overview Accreditation and quality assurance are two terms that are commonly used within the forensic science community. Many forensic laboratory mission statements incorporate the word…
Detection and Visibility of Bruises Using Alternate Light: From Science to Practice
This webinar originally occurred on October 30, 2019 Duration: 1 hour Overview Bruising is one of the most common types of soft tissue injury noted on victims of violence, including those suffering intimate partner violence, sexual assault, child abuse, and…
Handling Difficult and Disturbing Forensic Cases for Coroners and Medical Examiners
← Back to Series This webinar originally occurred on October 17, 2019 Duration: 1 hour Overview There are over 2000 medical examiner and coroner offices throughout the United States. All are involved in determining the cause and manner of death…
Best Practices in Novel Psychoactive Substances Testing for Laboratory Practitioners
Date September 2019 Overview New psychoactive substances (NPS) have always presented a challenge to analytical laboratories tasked with identifying drugs in biological and nonbiological material. The pace at which new compounds appeared on the illicit drug market increased exponentially in…
Just the Census of Medical Examiners and Coroners
Original Release Date: November 20, 2017 In this special release episode, Just Science interviews Dr. Hope Smiley-McDonald and Connor Brooks about the Bureau of Justice Statistics’ Census of Medical Examiners and Coroners. The last Census of Medical Examiners and Coroners…
Juror comprehension of forensic expert testimony: A literature review and gap analysis
Publication Forensic Science International: Synergy, March 2019 Author Heidi Eldridge | RTI International Abstract Forensic scientists and commentators including academics and statisticians have been embroiled in a debate over the best way to present evidence in the courtroom. Various forms…
Just Putrid Databases
← Back to Just Science Podcast Original Release Date: June 25, 2019 In episode seven of our 2019 NIJ R&D season, Just Science interviews Dr. Audris Mockus, a Professor in the Tickle College of Engineering at the University of Tennessee,…
Cradle to Cane: Investigation of Crimes Against Vulnerable Victims
This webinar originally occurred on March 21-23, 2017 Duration: 14 hours Overview: In 2017, the National Institute of Justice, Charleston Southern University, the Forensic Technology Center of Excellence, and the Shaken Baby Alliance worked together to create and host “From Cradle to Cane: Investigation of Crimes…
Online Workshop Series: Probabilistic Genotyping Of Evidentiary DNA Typing Results
Overview The Federal Bureau of Investigation Laboratory has partnered with the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence to create a series of online workshops aimed at increasing knowledge, understanding, and the reliable application of probabilistic genotyping to…
Rapid DNA’s Role in Disaster Victim Identification
This webinar originally occurred on May 2nd, 2019 Duration: 1.5 hours Overview Historically DNA technology has been used as a last resort in the identification of disaster victims. Traditional DNA testing can be a lengthy process and can be costly…
Neurophysiology and Overcoming Trauma: Understanding Individual Challenges
This webinar originally occurred on April 30, 2019 Duration: 1.5 hours Overview This webinar explores how personal experiences and unique traumas create commonly felt physical symptoms and investigates how the brain functions reflect a reaction to danger, an action to…
Identification: Just the Double Loop Podcast Crossover
← Back to Just Science Podcast Original Release Date: April 3, 2019 In episode nine of our Identification season, Just Science sits down with Heidi Eldridge, from RTI international, along with Eric Ray and Glenn Langenburg, the co-hosts of the Double Loop Podcast,…
HHRRC – Building Forensic Capacity Post-Conflict: Lessons from Uganda
← Back to Series This webinar originally occurred on March 28, 2019 Duration: 1.5 hours Overview This presentation introduces research conducted in Uganda at the nexus of forensic science and transitional justice, highlighting a large-scale forensic investigation and human identification…
The Time to Collect is Now: DNA Evidence in Groping Sexual Assault Cases
This webinar originally occurred on February 27, 2019 Duration: 1.5 hours Overview Improving the overall response to sexual assault includes understanding how touch DNA evidence impacts groping sexual assault cases. This webinar will illustrate the importance of these cases and…
ASCLD Train the Director – Quality Assurance in the Forensic Laboratory
← Back to Series This webinar originally occurred on February 21, 2019 Duration: 1 hour Overview This course explains transitioning from 17025:2005 to 17025:2017 and the lessons learned. This is the fifth webinar in the ASCLD Train the Director Webinar…
Forensic Advancement: Just Mass Casualty Events
← Back to Just Science Podcast Original Release Date: January 21, 2019 In episode eleven of our Forensic Advancement season, Just Science interviews Special Agent Richard Marx, the supervisory agent for the FBI’s Evidence Response Team Unit, to discuss what…
Forensic Advancement: Just Blind Proficiency Testing
← Back to Just Science Podcast Original Release Date: January 14, 2019 In episode ten of our Forensic Advancement season, Just Science interviews Dr. Peter Stout, CEO of the Houston Forensic Science Center, as he discusses the current state of…
ASCLD Train the Director – NIBIN Challenges and Opportunities
← Back to Series This webinar originally occurred on January 24, 2019 Duration: 1 hour Overview This is the first webinar in the ASCLD Train the Director Webinar Series. Crime Gun Intelligence utilizes evidence-based technology to provide law enforcement a…
ASCLD Train the Director – Digital Forensics: An Overview for the Laboratory Manager
← Back to Series This webinar originally occurred on January 31, 2019 Duration: 1 hour Overview This webinar will provide an overview of the field of digital forensics for the laboratory administrator. This is part of the ASCLD Train the…
Forensic Advancement: Just Transparency in Public Communications
← Back to Just Science Podcast Original Release Date: January 7, 2019 In episode nine of our Forensic Advancement season, Just Science interviews Ramit Plushnick-Masti, Director of Communications for the Houston Forensic Science Center, concerning the role of transparency in…
Forensic Advancement: Just a Paradigm Shift for Forensic Scientists
← Back to Just Science Podcast Original Release Date: December 31, 2018 In episode eight of our Forensic Advancement season, Just Science interviews Ron Smith. Mr. Smith is a 45-year veteran of latent print analysis and the current president of…
Forensic Advancement: Just Throwing DARTs at the Opioid Crisis
← Back to Just Science Podcast Original Release Date: December 17, 2018 In episode seven of our Forensic Advancement season, Just Science interviews Amber Burns, Chemistry Section Manager for the Maryland State Police Department, to discuss the role of technology…
Forensic Advancement: Just Millennials
← Back to Just Science Podcast Original Release Date: December 10, 2018 In episode six of our Forensic Advancement season, Just Science interviews Ben Swanholm, Evidence Screening Section Supervisor at the Phoenix Police Department to discuss millennials and their future…
Just So You Know: AAFS Humanitarian and Human Rights Resource Center
← Back to Just Science Podcast Original Release Date: December 3, 2018 The American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) Humanitarian and Human Rights Resource Center (HHRRC) seeks to promote humanitarian and human rights in the field of forensic sciences and…
Just ASCLD Rapid DNA Committee
← Back to Just Science Podcast Original Release Date: December 3, 2018 In episode five of our Forensic Advancement season, Just Science interviews Katie Fetherston, Brian Hoey, and Jeremy Triplett, the Laboratory Supervisor for Kentucky State Police to discuss the…
Psychological Survival in a Violent Career
← Back to Series Part One of this webinar originally occurred in 2018 Duration: 1.5 hours Part Two (Follow-Up) of this webinar originally occurred on May 30, 2019 Duration: 1.5 hours Overview Dr. David Christiansen discussed some of the relevant…
Just Psychological Resiliency
← Back to Just Science Podcast Original Release Date: November 26, 2018 In episode four of our Forensic Advancement season, Just Science interviews Dr. David Christiansen, a licensed psychologist in the State of Colorado, about psychological survival in a violent…
Just FORESIGHT on Sexual Assault Kits
← Back to Just Science Podcast Original Release Date: November 19, 2018 In episode three of our Forensic Advancement season, Just Science interviews Dr. Paul Speaker from West Virginia University about the jurisdictional return on investment for DNA Databases. With…
Just Cognitive Bias Awareness
← Back to Just Science Podcast Original Release Date: November 13, 2018 In episode two of our Forensic Advancement season, Just Science interviews Dr. Cecelia Crouse, formerly the Crime Laboratory Director of the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, about the…
Just the Soul of the Profession
← Back to Just Science Podcast Original Release Date: November 5, 2018 In episode one of our Forensic Advancement season, Just Science interviews John Collins, an instructor and consultant from Critical Victories, and Jay Henry, the laboratory director of the Utah…
Just Planning For The Aftermath Of A Mass Shooting
← Back to Just Science Podcast Original Release Date: October 22, 2018 In episode four of our 2018 Medicolegal Death Investigation Special Release Season, Just Science interviews John Fudenberg, the Coroner for Clark County, where he discusses the tragic events of the 2017 concert…
A Landscape Study of SOPs to Collect and Process Arrestee and Convicted Offender DNA Samples
Date September 2018 Overview The Forensic Technology Center of Excellence (FTCOE) is conducting a landscape study and root cause analysis which seeks to (1) identify factors that may result in potential barriers related to the collection, testing, and uploading of…
Just Forensic Nurse Coroners
← Back to Just Science Podcast Original Release Date: October 15, 2018 In episode three of our 2018 Medicolegal Death Investigation Special Release Season, Just Science interviews Bobbi Jo O’Neal, the Chief Deputy Coroner of Charleston, South Carolina, who discusses…
Advancing Research Initiatives and Combatting the Human Trafficking Epidemic
This webinar originally occurred on November 1, 2018 Duration: 1 hour Overview Trafficking in persons is a multi-faceted global epidemic which has seen a significant increase in public awareness. However, there is a substantial need to expand capacities and technologies…
Just Being Vocal about Vicarious Trauma
← Back to Just Science Podcast Original Release Date: October 1, 2018 In episode one of our 2018 Medicolegal Death Investigation Special Release Season, Just Science interviews Kelly Keyes, the supervising deputy coroner of Orange County, California to give an…
Conference Proceedings: 2016 International Forensic Radiology Research Summit
Date September 2017 Overview On May 10-11, 2016, the US Department of Justice (DOJ) National Institute of Justice (NIJ), the Netherlands Forensic Institute (NFI; Dutch Ministry of Security and Justice of the Netherlands), the International Society for Forensic Radiology and…
Strengthening the Medical Examiner–Coroner System Through NIJ-funded Programs: 2018 Medicolegal Death Investigation Stakeholders’ Meeting
Date September 2018 Overview On February 5-6, 2018, the National Institute of Justice (NIJ), the research and evaluation agency of the United States Department of Justice (DOJ), convened a diverse group of stakeholders from across the United States to gather…
Humanitarian and Human Rights Resource Center Webinar Series
Overview The Humanitarian and Human Rights Resource Center (HHRRC) of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) with support from the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence provides needed resources and support to apply modern forensic science…
Forensic Workforce Resiliency: Vicarious Trauma & Workplace Stress Webinar Series
Overview Professionals throughout the criminal justice system are exposed to the aftermath of violent crime and its victims. These individuals may include forensic nurses, crime scene investigators, forensic practitioners, medicolegal death investigators, and other professionals in related fields. Research has…
3D-ID-Geometric Morphometric Classification of Crania for Forensic Scientists Software Best Practices
This webinar originally occurred on August 16, 2018 Duration: 1 hour Overview Attendees will be introduced to the new features of the new software release, how to maximize results, and how to best interpret results for forensic casework application. The…
Leadership Series
Overview Every forensic science professional is a leader. Our society relies on the credibility and fairness of the criminal justice system. Forensic scientists play an important and fundamental role in the criminal justice community and are key to keeping our…
Webinar: Transition to Impact – Bringing Research to Practice [ARCHIVAL]
Overview Enabling great research to have impact in the forensics community requires transitioning knowledge from the lab to the market. Come learn about the steps you can take to improve the likelihood of your research impacting practice. Technology and knowledge…
Genes of a Feather Stick Together: Evaluating Linked Markers
← Back to Series This webinar originally occurred in 2018 Duration: 1 hour Overview New DNA analysis kits used in kinship testing may contain loci that are potentially linked. This project will examine if three pairs of exhibit linkage and…
DNA Kinship Testing Webinar Series
Overview DNA kinship tests are proposed as a method within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for confirming the presence of a biological relationship between two individuals for immigration purposes, preventing human trafficking, and identifying mass disaster victims. This webinar…
Evaluate Population-Specific Sibship During Kinship Analysis
← Back to Series This webinar originally occurred in 2018 Duration: 1 hour Overview – This webinar will provide an overview of what kinship analysis programs are currently in use and will provide an in-depth analysis of how population-based allele…
Evaluating the Use of DNA Analysis for Family Reunification
← Back to Series This webinar originally occurred on March 14th, 2018 Duration: 1 hour Overview DNA analysis allows for testing relationships (kinship) between two individuals in situations that vary from legal immigration to claimed parentage testing. This webinar focuses…
Cost-Benefit Analysis of Kinship Testing Involving Siblings
← Back to Series This webinar originally occurred in 2018 Duration: 1 hour Overview This webinar aims to improve the knowledge on kinship testing involving siblings and provides a cost-benefit analysis of practices involving the use of additional reference siblings…
Regional Fentanyl Trends, Safety & Field Testing Technology
← Back to Series Overview Regional fentanyl trends in Phoenix and Pittsburgh will be discussed along with safety concerns with unknown white powders. Handheld field testing technology will also be discussed including RAMAN and IMS. This webinar will discuss trends…
2018 IPTES Plenary – Closing Keynote Speaker Adam Benforado
Overview IPTES was designed to bring together practitioners and researchers to enhance information-sharing and promote collaboration among the impression, pattern, and trace evidence analysts, law enforcement, and legal communities. This original Live Webinar took place on 01/25/2018. The National Institute…
2018 IPTES – Trace Evidence Breakout Day 2 PM
Overview IPTES was designed to bring together practitioners and researchers to enhance information-sharing and promote collaboration among the impression, pattern, and trace evidence analysts, law enforcement, and legal communities. This original Live Webinar took place on 01/25/2018. The National Institute…
2018 IPTES – Trace Evidence Breakout Day 2 AM – Part 2
Overview IPTES was designed to bring together practitioners and researchers to enhance information-sharing and promote collaboration among the impression, pattern, and trace evidence analysts, law enforcement, and legal communities. This original Live Webinar took place on 01/25/2018. The National Institute…
2018 IPTES – Trace Evidence Breakout Day 2 AM – Part 1
Overview IPTES was designed to bring together practitioners and researchers to enhance information-sharing and promote collaboration among the impression, pattern, and trace evidence analysts, law enforcement, and legal communities. This original Live Webinar took place on 01/25/2018. The National Institute…
2018 IPTES – Impression & Pattern Breakout – Day 2 PM
Overview IPTES was designed to bring together practitioners and researchers to enhance information-sharing and promote collaboration among the impression, pattern, and trace evidence analysts, law enforcement, and legal communities. This original Live Webinar took place on 01/25/2018. The National Institute…
2018 IPTES – Impression & Pattern Breakout Day 2 AM – Part 2
Overview IPTES was designed to bring together practitioners and researchers to enhance information-sharing and promote collaboration among the impression, pattern, and trace evidence analysts, law enforcement, and legal communities. This original Live Webinar took place on 01/25/2018. The National Institute…
2018 IPTES – Impression & Pattern Breakout Day 2 AM – Part 1
Overview IPTES was designed to bring together practitioners and researchers to enhance information-sharing and promote collaboration among the impression, pattern, and trace evidence analysts, law enforcement, and legal communities. This original Live Webinar took place on 01/25/2018. The National Institute…
2018 IPTES – Trace Evidence Breakout Day 1 PM
Overview IPTES was designed to bring together practitioners and researchers to enhance information-sharing and promote collaboration among the impression, pattern, and trace evidence analysts, law enforcement, and legal communities. This original Live Webinar took place on 01/24/2018. The National Institute…
2018 IPTES – Impression & Pattern Breakout Day 1 PM
Overview IPTES was designed to bring together practitioners and researchers to enhance information-sharing and promote collaboration among the impression, pattern, and trace evidence analysts, law enforcement, and legal communities. This original Live Webinar took place on 01/24/2018. The National Institute…
2018 IPTES Plenary – Statistics & Testimony From Practitioner
Overview IPTES was designed to bring together practitioners and researchers to enhance information-sharing and promote collaboration among the impression, pattern, and trace evidence analysts, law enforcement, and legal communities.This original Live Webinar took place on 01/24/2018. The National Institute of…
2018 IPTES Plenary – Opening Remarks & Statistical Approaches
Overview IPTES was designed to bring together practitioners and researchers to enhance information-sharing and promote collaboration among the impression, pattern, and trace evidence analysts, law enforcement, and legal communities. This original Live Webinar took place on 01/24/2018. The National Institute…
Investigative DNA Testing Implementation
← Back to Series Overview This webinar will discuss the technical and operational aspects of implementing forensic investigative DNA testing. DNA based prediction of physical appearance can provide investigators with useful leads when a DNA profile generates no hits. Currently,…
Webinar: A Close Look at 3D Microscopy for Firearms Identification [Archival]
Overview Firearms identification is undergoing a major change in capability with the adoption of optical topography, which provides a 3D view of the surface of a bullet or cartridge case to capture the full range of subclass and individual characteristics.…
Collaboration in the Fight Against Fentanyl
← Back to Series Overview This webinar will identify partnerships and innovative efforts in the whole of government approach to identify and interdict fentanyl analogs, as well as to heighten awareness and strengthen legal mechanisms for dealing with the illicit…
DNA Methylation-Based Age Prediction & Body Fluid ID
← Back to Series Overview In this webinar you will discover how multiplex assays targeting CpG sites can be used to predict the age of an individual and determine the body fluid of origin of a sample. The ability to…
The NC Statewide Medical Examiner System Laboratory Approach
← Back to Series Overview This webinar will focus on the North Carolina Medical Examiner System and the toxicology laboratory that serves the system. Included will be information on the changing landscape of death certification and changes to the laboratory…
The Evolution Of SNPs As A Forensic Marker
← Back to Series Overview This webinar will review the history of SNPs as forensic markers and discuss the design and development of large SNP multiplexes for use on massively parallel sequencing platforms for forensic and missing person identification. The…
The Opioid Overdose Epidemic in America: CDC Response
← Back to Series Overview In this Webinar, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will present an overview of the opioid overdose epidemic and its public health burden, followed by a description of the multi-faceted public health approach.…
The Industry’s Role in Responding to the Opioid Crisis
← Back to Series Overview This webinar will describe the role that the reference material manufacturer plays by providing the tools needed to respond to the current opioid epidemic. Whether by rapidly providing authentic reference standards of novel emerging drugs…
Making The Case For Prevention: Fighting The Opioid Epidemic
← Back to Series Overview This webinar focuses on universal and primary prevention efforts to address prescription drug misuse and abuse; and the use of innovative analytic techniques to evaluate their effectiveness. The current response to the opioid epidemic has…
Just Case Studies: A Mother’s Tale – Part 2
← Back to Just Science Podcast Original Release Date: September 18, 2017 In the fourth episode of our Case Studies season, Just Science sat down with Mike Weber, an investigator with the Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office in the Crimes Against Children…
Just Case Studies: A Mother’s Tale – Part 1
← Back to Just Science Podcast Original Release Date: September 18, 2017 In the third episode of our Case Studies season, Just Science sat down with Mike Weber, an investigator with the Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office in the Crimes…
Opioids and Death Investigation: A “Perfect Storm”
← Back to Series Overview The scope of the opioid epidemic presents unprecedented challenges to the medical examiner and coroner community. This webinar will explore the intersection of the opioid epidemic with the work of America’s medical examiners and coroners.…
Strategies & Considerations for Trace Detection of Fentalogs
← Back to Series Overview This webinar provides strategies & considerations for the trace detection of fentanyl and its analogs. The focus will be on TD-DART-MS and IMS analysis as well as understanding the fate of fentanyl residues that are…
Just Case Studies: Mel Hall – A Sexual Predator
← Back to Just Science Podcast Original Release Date: September 4, 2017 For the second season of Just Science we will be delving into Case Studies. These case interviews include victim accounts, lawyers, investigators, and crime lab directors. They will…
Opioid Crisis – A Public Health Enemy Webinar Series
Overview Rates of opioid use and misuse have reached epidemic proportions and are impacting many aspects of both criminal justice and forensic sciences programs. Opioid addiction is the driving force behind this increase in use with more than 2.5 million…
Record Linkage of CODIS Profiles with SNP Genotypes
← Back to Series Overview This webinar will describe a method for assessing whether a set of genotypes at the CODIS microsatellite markers is drawn from the same person as a set of genome-wide SNP genotypes. Forensic-genetic work in the…
Opioid Substances: A Threat to Animal Welfare & Safety
← Back to Series Overview The opioid crisis has impacted animal welfare and safety several ways. This webinar will review risks to pets of opioid abusers and working K9s and will make recommendations to help keep K9s safe, including risk…
Dreamland – Sam Quinones Explores America’s Opiate Epidemic
← Back to Series Overview Sam Quinones is a Los Angeles-based freelance journalist and author of three books of narrative nonfiction. His latest book is Dreamland: The True Tale of America’s Opiate Epidemic (Bloomsbury, 2015), for which he traveled across…
Fentalogs – Pharmacology, Toxicology & Analytical Approaches
← Back to Series Overview We will review the chemistry of fentanyl, its analogs and precursors, their pharmacology and relative potency, and approaches to identifying novel fentanyl analogs in forensic toxicology casework. Fentanyl and its analogs, sometimes called “The Fentalogs”,…
Opioids and the Drain on Laboratory Resources
← Back to Series Overview This webinar uses data from Project FORESIGHT to examine the effects of the opioid crisis on the demands for laboratory resources and the direct and indirect effects on the work of forensic laboratories. The dramatic…
Identify Synthetic Opioids using Ambient Ionization TOF-MS
← Back to Series Overview This webinar will present the results of the evaluation of Direct Sample Analysis Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry to provide rapid identification of eighteen fentanyl analogs and related synthetic opioid. As of March 2016, the Drug Enforcement…
Just the Facts About Campus Sexual Assault
← Back to Just Science Podcast Original Release Date: June 12, 2017 In episode eight of Just Science, we spoke with Dr. Christopher Krebs, a Senior Research Social Scientist at RTI International. Dr. Krebs’ research has shed light on the problem of…
2017 National Institute of Justice Forensic Science Research and Development Symposium
Date June 2017 Overview The 2017 National Institute of Justice (NIJ) Forensic Science Research and Development (R&D) Symposium is intended to promote collaboration and enhance knowledge transfer of NIJ-funded research. The NIJ Forensic Science R&D Program funds both basic or…
HHRRC – Stable Isotope Forensics & Unknown Persons Investigations
← Back to Series This webinar originally occurred on May 24, 2017 Duration: 2 hours Overview This webinar discussed applications of stable isotope analysis for predicting region of origin of unidentified border crossers found within the United States. Participants will…
Furensics – Animal DNA in Criminal Investigations
This webinar originally occurred on June 29, 2017 Duration: 1 hour Overview This webinar provides an overview of the Veterinary Genetics Laboratory Forensic Unit at UC Davis and the types of cases encountered in a non-human DNA laboratory. Also included…
ASCLD Webinar Series: DNA Standards and Guidelines Part 2
This webinar originally occurred on May 25, 2017 Duration: 2 hours Overview Forensic DNA Analysis, and in particular interpreting complex DNA mixtures and calculating statistics, can be challenging. The technology is ever more sensitive and analysts are testing a wider…
HHRRC – Analysis and Conservation of Human Remains in Cambodia
← Back to Series The webinar originally occurred on May 16th, 2017 Duration: 1 hour Overview This presentation provides an introduction to the work conducted in Cambodia to analyze/preserve human remains from violence committed by the Khmer Rouge. Specifically the…
ASCLD Webinar Series: DNA Standards and Guidelines Part 1
Overview This webinar was targeted to DNA Supervisors, DNA Technical Leaders, Quality Mangers, and DNA Analysts. There was also a question and answer period after the presentation. Forensic DNA Analysis, and in particular interpreting complex DNA mixtures and calculating statistics,…
HHRRC – Nerve Agent Uptake and Detection in Human Bone
← Back to Series The webinar originally occurred on May 9th, 2017 Duration: 1 hour Overview This presentation discusses experimental tests of a model for drug uptake by human bone and explores how the results may be applied to detect…
State Forensic Science Commissions
Date November 2016 Overview State commissions focus on communication and collaboration among laboratories and stakeholders, allocation of resources, laboratory improvements, promulgation of accreditation and certification standards, investigations into misconduct or professional negligence in crime laboratories, and other implementation and oversight issues.…
Familial DNA Searching: Current Approaches
Date January 2015 Overview Familial searching (FS) is an additional search of a DNA profile in a law enforcement DNA database that is conducted after a routine search does not identify any profile matches. FS involves a two-phase process, conducted to…
Organizing and Transferring SANE/SAFE/SART Knowledge and Best Practices
Date November 2014 Overview At the request of the National Institute of Justice, the Forensic Technology Center of Excellence (FTCOE) leads a comprehensive federal effort to organize and transfer knowledge and best practices of sexual assault nurse examiners, sexual assault forensic…
2014 NIJ Crime Laboratory Directors Meeting
Date October 2014 Overview On September 11-12, 2014, the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) convened a meeting with crime laboratory directors from various regions of the United States to gather information on strengthening the DNA Capacity Enhancement and Backlog Reduction (DNA)…
Using Forensics & Biometrics on Human Trafficking
Overview Modern day global realities are that millions of people are immigrants, refugees, enslaved in some form of human trafficking, or otherwise susceptible to conflict or acts of terror. There is no simplistic solution to address these issues, as matters…
R&D 2014 – Fundamental Forensic Science Research-Part II
Overview This archival portion of the 2014 R&D Seminar Series covers the following presentations: Quantitative Metrics of Friction Ridge Detail Derived from Information Theory by Thomas Busey Definition of the Concept of Sufficiency in Latent Print Examination by Cedric Neumann…
New Paradigm for Fingerprint Reporting
Overview In November 2015, the Defense Forensic Science Center (DFSC) issued an Information Paper announcing the decision to cease the use of the terms “individualization” and “identification” in latent print technical reports and expert witness testimony. This webinar provided an…
Genome ID Forum 2014 – Legal Perspective on the Adoption of Advanced Technologies
Overview Originally presented at the 2014 Genome ID Forum, Ted Hunt, chief trial attorney in the prosecuting attorney’s office in Kansas City, Missouri, brings a fresh legal perspective to addressing the adoption of advanced DNA analysis technologies for forensic crime laboratories.…
Latent Fingerprints: Reducing Erroneous Exclusions
Overview This presentation discusses reducing erroneous exclusions in latent fingerprints. The exclusion decision is a fairly recent change in latent print comparisons, and the discipline is still struggling with how to handle exclusions. Erroneous exclusions are being discovered with surprising…
Familial DNA Searching: Current Approaches – Part IV
Overview This four-part panel discussion series will elucidate the current landscape of policies and procedures addressing familial DNA searching. Part IV In this particular session, the discussion focused around current technical protocols including software considerations, candidate thresholds derived by likelihood…
Familial DNA Searching: Current Approaches – Part III
Overview This four-part panel discussion series will elucidate the current landscape of policies and procedures addressing familial DNA searching. Part III In this particular session, the discussion focused around the process of investigative follow up from these leads including costs…
Familial DNA Searching: Current Approaches – Part II
Overview This four-part panel discussion series will elucidate the current landscape of policies and procedures addressing familial DNA searching. Part II In this particular session, the discussion topic was focused around current existing protocols and specifically address questions such as:…
Familial DNA Searching: Current Approaches – Part I
Overview This four-part panel discussion series will elucidate the current landscape of policies and procedures addressing familial DNA searching. Part I These discussions were used to generate a report designed to educate legal professionals, policy makers, law enforcement and forensic…
Familial DNA Database Search System
Overview The Familial DNA Database Search System is a newly developed fully web enabled secure database search system to allow for DNA profile comparisons including those that define familial relationships. This system was developed in collaboration with practitioners from the…
ASCLD Webinar Series: FBI Allele Frequency – Managers & Legal Overview
Overview Crime Laboratories have earned a position of public trust over time through providing reliable quality results. Keeping public trust includes being self-correcting once an issue is discovered. The Federal Bureau of Investigation allele frequency amendments is an opportunity to…
ASCLD Webinar Series: FBI Allele Frequency Amendments – Technical Discussion
Overview Crime Laboratories have earned a position of public trust over time through providing reliable quality results. Keeping public trust includes being self-correcting once an issue is discovered. The Federal Bureau of Investigation allele frequency amendments is an opportunity to…
ASCLD Webinar Series: Rapid DNA, the QAS and NDIS Part I
Overview The American Society of Crime Lab Directors, along with RTI International, have produced this webinar series designed to investigate the validation, current use, and future implementation of Rapid DNA. This is the first archival of this three-part series that…
ASCLD Webinar Series: Rapid DNA Part III
Overview The American Society of Crime Lab Directors, along with RTI International, have produced this webinar series designed to investigate the validation, current use, and future implementation of Rapid DNA. This third webinar in the Rapid DNA Webinar series focuses…
ASCLD Webinar Series: Rapid DNA Part II
Overview The American Society of Crime Lab Directors, along with RTI, have produced this webinar series designed to investigate the validation, current use, and future implementation of Rapid DNA. This is the second webinar in a three part series. The…
ASCLD Webinar Series: DNA Mixtures Technical Overview
Overview Complex DNA mixtures from more than two individuals and/or profiles amplified with low-level quantities of DNA, can be challenging for the analyst to interpret. The FBI’s Scientific Working Group on DNA Analysis Methods (SWGDAM) crafted a new version of…
ASCLD Webinar Series: DNA Mixtures Managers Overview
Overview Complex DNA mixtures from more than two individuals and/or profiles amplified with low-level quantities of DNA, can be challenging for the analyst to interpret. Dr. Coble first provided an overview of the technical issues with mixture interpretation including statistical…
Genome ID Forum 2014 – Applications of Emerging Technologies NIST
Overview Originally presented at the 2014 Genome ID Forum, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) SRMs includes the PCR based DNA profiling standard which covers 51 autosomal and 17 Y chromosome markers, mitochondrial DNA sequencing standards and the…
A General Framework for the Estimation of Likelihood Ratios
Overview This talk provides a very general framework for the estimation of likelihood ratios using similarity or dissimilarity scores resulting from a comparison of two patterns that overcome this deficiency for suitably chosen similarity measures. In such instances, the likelihood…
2016 NSAPS Panel 2 – Victim-Centered Approaches
Overview The National Institute of Justice, through its Forensic Technology Center of Excellence hosted “Looking Ahead: The National Sexual Assault Policy Symposium” on September 8-9, 2016, in Washington D.C. The audience learned how first responders such as medical staff, victims’…
2016 NSAPS Panel 1 – Immediate Aftermath of Sexual Assault
Overview The National Institute of Justice, through its Forensic Technology Center of Excellence hosted “Looking Ahead: The National Sexual Assault Policy Symposium” on September 8-9, 2016, in Washington D.C. This panel provided an overview of how a traumatic event like…