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 Commonwealth University, Kiersten is digging into single-cell analysis, high-resolution melt curve data, and the power of DNA to support justice, especially for underrepresented communities. As one of this year’s ISHI Student Ambassadors, she’s joining a group of rising scientists who will share their perspectives, connect with the community, and represent the future of the field.
Get to know what drives Kiersten—and why she always keeps a stash of Extra Toasty Cheez-Its on hand in the lab—in the Q&A below.
What was your “aha” moment—the turning point that made you realize forensic DNA was the right path for you?
I began my undergraduate studies as a biochemistry major, planning to become a pharmacist. As I progressed through my sophomore year and began working as a pharmacy technician, I realized I was lacking the passion and interest I once had regarding my career goals. It was difficult at first to discover a new path I was interested in, but as I was watching a true crime documentary one day, something clicked when I listened to the forensic experts explain how DNA analysis can help individualize evidentiary samples and solve cases. I immediately knew that this is what I wanted to do, and I changed my major to forensic science the following semester.
What does justice mean to you, and how do you see your work contributing to it?
Justice upholds morality and fairness in a world in which these standards are constantly being questioned and attacked. In forensics, justice can be pursued by providing reliable analytical results and statistical conclusions that can shed light on the guilt or innocence of those involved in a case. Representing marginalized communities that might not be represented properly otherwise is also a responsibility of upholding justice.
What’s one discovery or research experience that has shifted the way you think about forensic DNA?
I am continually fascinated by the technique of single-cell analysis; the ability to obtain a full DNA profile from just a single cell opens up so many possibilities within forensic DNA methodology, including its incorporation into previously unsolved cases that can now be assessed for trace DNA, as well as mixture deconvolution in which single cell analysis can be used to isolate individual profiles. It makes me wonder what else will be possible in the future with constant research and breakthroughs occurring in the field!
If you could spend a day in any lab (past, present, or dream), whose would it be—and what would you want to learn?
Spending a day in the scientific lab at St. Bartholomew’s Hospital as portrayed in the 2010 rendition of Sherlock would be so fun- I would love work on the scientific experiments going on in there as well as tagging along on one of Sherlock’s investigations in order to learn more about criminal profiling.
Which tool, technique, or forensic trend are you most excited to see evolve in the next few years or learn about at ISHI this year?
I am interested in keeping up with STRmix™ and how this tool continues to be incorporated into forensic DNA analysis for mixture deconvolution techniques. Since my graduate research project focuses on the optimization of a mixture screening tool that uses high-resolution melt curve data, it will be interesting to compare this model to a more commercial software and learn more about the similarities and differences these algorithms possess.
As a Student Ambassador, what impact do you hope to have on other students in the forensic science community?
I look forward to sharing the excitement and curiosity that comes with being in the field of forensic DNA! There are always opportunities to learn something new if you have an open and optimistic mindset. It is also important to remember that you do not have to be an expert in your field to be involved; everyone is always learning, and everyone makes mistakes along the way, but supporting each other as we learn and grow is the most important aspect of this community.
What’s your go-to song, snack, or ritual when you need a little extra focus or motivation in the lab?
Every time I need a little extra pep during my day in the lab, I like to grab a handful or two of Cheez-Its to keep me energized and focused- Extra Toasty only!
If we caught you outside the lab, what would you be doing?
Every time I need a little extra pep during my day in the lab, I like to grab a handful or two of Cheez-Its to keep me energized and focused- Extra Toasty only!
What are your aspirations for the future after completing your education?
My goal is to become a forensic DNA analyst after graduation and work in a crime lab. I also plan to travel a lot and visit my bucket list places such as Switzerland. I also hope to one day work in the field of wildlife forensics, bringing justice to animals who are not able to advocate for themselves.
