How Did the DNA Get There? The Science Behind Activity Level Propositions in Forensics
When DNA is found at a crime scene, the question is no longer just whose DNA is it?—it’s how did it get there? At #ISHI35, Ray Wickenheiser, retired forensic scientist, and Ashley Hall, director of the forensic science program at UC Davis, shared their cutting-edge research on activity level propositions and the role of touch […]
This Week in Forensic Science
No one has hours to scour the papers to keep up with the latest news, so we’ve curated the top news stories in the field of Forensic Science for this week. Here’s what you need to know to get out the door! Utah Medical Examiner Narrows Unidentified Human Remains to 30 Bodies (KJZZ14 – 5/02/2025) While […]
Scaling Expert Knowledge through a “Living SOP”
Interview written and condensed by Grace Choi, PhD, Founder of Larabee. Reposted from the ISHI Report with permission. Every organization has “gold standard” ways of performing protocols and core techniques. These established methods ensure precise and consistent results while minimizing potential errors. The problem is that action-based procedures are difficult to train at scale. In-person […]
This Week in Forensic Science
No one has hours to scour the papers to keep up with the latest news, so we’ve curated the top news stories in the field of Forensic Science for this week. Here’s what you need to know to get out the door! University of Tennessee Health Science Center Teams with Othram to Identify a 1991 John […]
Harnessing AI for Smarter Forensic DNA Analysis
Interview written and condensed by Tara Luther, Promega. Reposted from the ISHI Report with permission. For decades, forensic DNA profiling has relied on polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology to amplify genetic material for identification and casework. While forensic laboratories have seen significant advancements in DNA extraction, profiling, and interpretation, the fundamental PCR process itself has […]
Tiger Slaughterhouses and Forensic DNA: How Science is Fighting Illegal Wildlife Trade
How is forensic DNA helping to combat the illegal wildlife trade and protect endangered species? At ISHI 35, Daniel Vanĕk, forensic scientist and former Czech police officer, shared his groundbreaking work identifying big cats and other endangered species through DNA analysis in cases like the Tiger Slaughterhouse. In this fascinating interview, Daniel discusses: 🔬 The […]
This Week in Forensic Science
No one has hours to scour the papers to keep up with the latest news, so we’ve curated the top news stories in the field of Forensic Science for this week. Here’s what you need to know to get out the door! 50-Year-Old Cold Case Solved After Mother was Found Dead in Ditch with Daughter Left […]
Profiling the Criminal Mind: A Conversation with Dr. Ann Burgess
Interview written and condensed by Ann MacPhetridge, Promega. Reposted from the ISHI Report with permission. For nearly five decades, Dr. Ann Burgess has been at the forefront of forensic psychology and criminal profiling, transforming the way investigators understand violent offenders. Her groundbreaking work with the FBI’s Behavioral Science Unit laid the foundation for modern criminal […]
Investigative Genetic Genealogy: Breaking Barriers and Solving Cold Cases
How is investigative genetic genealogy (IGG) transforming forensic science and solving cold cases? At #ISHI35, Ahana Chatterjee sat down with David Gurney and Cairenn Binder from Ramapo College’s Investigative Genetic Genealogy Center to discuss IGG’s impact, challenges, and future. In this engaging interview, discover: 🔬 How IGG is being used to identify perpetrators, exonerate the […]
