As we prepare for the 36th International Symposium on Human Identification (ISHI), we’re thrilled to announce this year’s keynote session, “From Profiling to Artificial Intelligence: Identifying Serial Killers,” which will delve into the evolution of understanding violent criminal behavior, tracing its roots from traditional behavioral profiling to cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) technologies.
Presented by Dr. Ann Wolbert Burgess, a pioneering forensic nurse and expert on serial offenders, and her granddaughter, Alexandra Burgess, an innovative computational forensic scientist, this keynote is a multi-generational exploration of how forensic science continues to adapt and advance in the pursuit of justice.
About the Keynote: The Evolution of Profiling
Forensic profiling has come a long way since the early days of behavioral analysis. From foundational techniques that sought to decode the motives behind crimes to today’s advanced AI models capable of analyzing patterns across massive datasets, the field continues to grow in complexity and potential.
Dr. Ann Burgess, whose groundbreaking work helped shape the FBI’s early behavioral profiling methods, will reflect on the key milestones that have advanced our understanding of violent offenders. Attendees will hear how early case studies, like the Mad Bomber and Edmund Kemper, informed profiling techniques that remain relevant today.
Alexandra Burgess will then bring the conversation into the modern era, showcasing how AI is transforming investigations. Using machine learning to analyze behavioral and cognitive patterns, today’s forensic scientists can uncover insights that were previously inaccessible. Together, Ann and Alexandra will demonstrate how the tools of the past and present converge to shape the future of forensic science.
Meet the Keynote Speakers
Dr. Ann Wolbert Burgess has been at the forefront of forensic science for over five decades. A pioneer in forensic nursing, she co-founded one of the first hospital-based crisis intervention programs for rape victims. Her groundbreaking research on serial offenders and crime classification has been instrumental in shaping modern profiling techniques. Recognized as a Living Legend by the American Academy of Nursing, her influence extends across academia, law enforcement, and policy-making.
Alexandra Burgess brings a forward-looking perspective to the keynote. With a background in neuroscience from MIT and current doctoral research at Boston College, Alexandra is pioneering the integration of computational tools into forensic science. Her work examines how technology can deepen our understanding of violent behavior and inform proactive strategies to prevent crime.
This unique pairing of experience and innovation offers attendees an unparalleled look at the past, present, and future of forensic science.
Join Us in West Palm Beach
📅 Dates: November 3–6, 2025
📍 Location: Palm Beach Convention Center, West Palm Beach, Florida
We can’t wait to welcome you to ISHI 36 for this extraordinary session and so much more. Mark your calendar for February 2025, when registration opens and prepare to explore the next frontier of forensic science.
