Introducing the Forensic Leadership Alliance

Leadership in forensic DNA is never theoretical. It’s complex. It’s personal. It’s often lonely. And it carries real consequences—on your team, your lab’s reputation, and the justice system itself. That’s why the Forensic Leadership Alliance (FLA) was created. Led by four respected voices in forensic science, the FLA is a collaborative space for DNA lab […]

Introducing the 2025 ISHI Student Ambassadors: Rory Conn

For Rory Conn, forensic DNA came into focus the moment she stepped into a lab and ran her first full DNA analysis—from extraction to profile interpretation. That Forensic Molecular Biology course not only sparked her curiosity but solidified a calling. Since then, Rory has leaned into every opportunity to deepen her skills, always keeping in […]

Introducing the 2025 ISHI Student Ambassadors: Laila Mansour

For Laila Mansour, forensic DNA wasn’t just a career option—it was a realization that science could be both personal and powerful. Growing up watching crime shows with her grandmother, she first saw forensic science on screen, but it wasn’t until she connected the dots between her love of biology, justice, and storytelling that she knew […]

Introducing the 2025 ISHI Student Ambassadors: Maria Josefina Castagnola

Maria Josefina Castagnola didn’t land in forensic genetics by accident—it was a gradual unfolding, driven by a lifelong love of science and a growing interest in how identity and justice intersect. From her early days studying biochemistry in Argentina to hands-on work in exhumations and human identification, each experience has brought her closer to her […]

Now Live: The May Issue of The ISHI Report

As spring unfolds and we look ahead to ISHI 36 in West Palm Beach, the May issue of The ISHI Report is now live—and it’s one you won’t want to miss. Start Reading This edition opens with an extraordinary case that bridges forensic science and military history. In DNA Identification of Unknown World War II […]

Introducing the 2025 ISHI Student Ambassadors: Kiersten Fultz

Kiersten Fultz didn’t always know she wanted to work in forensic DNA. In fact, she was halfway to pharmacy school when a true crime documentary changed everything. The moment she saw experts explaining how DNA could help solve cases, something clicked—and she’s been chasing answers ever since. Now a forensic biology grad student at Virginia […]

Meet the 2025 ISHI Student Ambassadors: The Future of Forensic DNA Starts Here

Each year, the ISHI Student Ambassador program highlights rising stars in forensic science—students who are not only passionate about their research but driven to shape the future of the field. This year’s cohort is no exception. Representing diverse institutions and research areas, the 2025 Ambassadors bring curiosity, community spirit, and bold scientific vision to the […]

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 […]

February 2025 Issue of The ISHI Report Available

Forensic science is entering a new era—one defined by AI-driven advancements, evolving investigative techniques, and expanding applications beyond the lab. Whether it’s enhancing forensic training, using DNA to disrupt wildlife trafficking, or identifying victims in the aftermath of disasters, the field is constantly evolving. As we look ahead to ISHI 36, this year’s conference promises […]