The February 2026 edition of The ISHI Report has arrived — and it may be one of our most globally and technically expansive issues yet.
This release brings together emerging voices, cutting-edge research, humanitarian identification efforts, and new professional development opportunities. Across every article, one theme rises to the surface: forensic DNA is evolving — not just in technology, but in reach, responsibility, and impact.
Here’s what you’ll find inside.
Through Their Eyes: Student Ambassadors Reflect on ISHI 36
We begin with the future.
Our 2025 ISHI Student Ambassadors share reflections from ISHI 36 in West Palm Beach — highlighting research in epigenetics, predictive modeling, bioinformatics, and forensic botany. Their insights remind us that the next generation isn’t waiting to lead — they’re already contributing meaningfully to the field.
Their stories ground the issue in optimism and purpose, reminding us why we do this work.
DNA in the Midst of War: Ukraine’s Ongoing Identification Efforts
In one of the most powerful pieces of this issue, we explore forensic DNA efforts unfolding during Ukraine’s ongoing conflict.
With tens of thousands reported missing — including forcibly transferred children — DNA is being used not only for death investigations but for future family reunifications. Laboratories are expanding during wartime. Reference samples are being collected preemptively. Trust-building is as critical as technology.
This article is a sobering look at how forensic DNA functions as a humanitarian tool — and what global systems must learn from Ukraine’s experience.
When SNP Mixtures Don’t Add Up: An Interview with Dr. Betzaida Maldonado
What happens when evidence doesn’t fit neatly into existing workflows?
Dr. Betzaida Maldonado’s NIJ-funded research tackles a growing limitation in forensic genetic genealogy: SNP mixture interpretation. Her probabilistic framework for deconvoluting two-person SNP mixtures could expand IGG eligibility — potentially unlocking leads in cases long deemed ineligible.
If you work at the intersection of sequencing technology and casework implementation, this conversation is essential reading.
Preparing for the Unthinkable: The Central California Forensic Fire Death Investigation Academy
Wildland-urban interface (WUI) fires are increasing in frequency and devastation. Yet interdisciplinary training for wildfire fatality response remains limited.
The Central California Forensic Fire Death Investigation Academy is changing that — bringing fire professionals, forensic scientists, law enforcement, K9 handlers, and academics together for hands-on, scenario-based training and research.
This article explores how preparation, science, and collaboration can reshape mass fatality response before the next disaster strikes.
Access, Equity, and Forensic Self-Collection in Rural Canada
In She Matters, we examine inequities in sexual assault evidence kit access across rural and remote Canadian communities — and explore whether forensic DNA self-collection could provide a legally viable, trauma-informed solution.
This piece challenges us to think beyond traditional systems and consider how forensic science can expand access without compromising integrity or admissibility.
The Long Game: Solving a 58-Year-Old Cold Case
Eric Schubert shares the inside story of solving one of Pennsylvania’s oldest cold cases through genetic genealogy.
Low matches. Two years of persistence. Dozens of family trees. Preserved evidence from 1964.
It’s a reminder that forensic DNA is often a long game — and that answers, even decades later, still matter.
From humanitarian identification during active conflict to AI-assisted mixture interpretation, from wildfire response to survivor-centered evidence collection — forensic DNA continues to evolve far beyond the lab bench.
And we’re proud to document that journey with you.