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! She Uses Jewelry to Help Identify the Nameless (The New York Times – 6/28/2024) […]

Meet the ISHI Advisory Committee: Rhonda Williams

We are delighted to spotlight Rhonda Williams, Ph.D., a valued member of the ISHI Advisory Committee, whose extensive experience in forensic DNA analysis has significantly contributed to the field. Rhonda’s commitment to education and her hands-on expertise make her a cherished figure among her peers and students. Rhonda Williams embarked on her forensic journey at […]

From Cold Case to Conviction: Bringing a Serial Rapist to Justice

In this interview, we sat down with Allison from Bode Technology and prosecutor Ryan Barry, who played instrumental roles in solving and prosecuting a decades-old cold case using forensic investigative genetic genealogy (FIGG). Allison, with a background in genealogy, and Ryan, bringing his legal expertise, dive into the intricate details of the Daniel Ray Skaggs […]

The Foot that Solved the Puzzle: Unraveling a Forensic Mystery

Join us at ISHI 34 for an exclusive interview with Natasha Poe, the DNA Technical Leader from the St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s Office, as she shares insights into a groundbreaking forensic case that spanned across states and years to reach a resolution. Natasha delves into a complex case involving unidentified human remains discovered in her […]

May Issue of The ISHI Report Available

As we embrace the vibrant spirit of spring here in Madison, Wisconsin, our May issue blossoms with insights and revelations from the forefront of forensic science. This edition is dedicated to not only uncovering the latest advancements but also to exploring practical challenges and innovative solutions within our field. Workshop presenters Jason Moran, Kimberly Gin, […]

From Familial Searching to FIGG: Advancing Forensic Science with New DNA Techniques

In this in-depth interview with Ray Wickenheiser, Director of the New York State Police Crime Lab System, brings his 40 years of forensic experience to Denver. With a career that spans the evolution of DNA analysis in forensic science, Ray shares his insights on the transformative impact of DNA technologies on public safety, justice, and […]

Shaping the Future of Forensic DNA: Aurora Biomed

In this interview with Priyanka Minhas from Aurora Biomed, we learn about some of the latest advancements in forensic science and genomics. At Aurora Biomed, the focus is clear: tackle the backlog in sexual assault kit processing and push the boundaries in genomics with innovative automation solutions.   Priyanka, in her role as an application […]

Turning Awareness into Action During Sexual Assault Awareness Month

April 2024 marks the 23rd anniversary of Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) in the United States. The National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC) says that SAAM is a time to not only draw attention to the prevalence of sexual assault, but to also educate individuals and communities about how to prevent sexual violence.   In […]

Improvisation Meets Science: Enhancing Courtroom Communication in Forensics

In this interview, Laura delves into a unique workshop hosted by Julie Burrill and Josh Rich at the 34th International Symposium on Human Identification that integrated improvisation with scientific communication aimed at enhancing the communication skills of forensic scientists, particularly in courtroom settings.   Julie and Josh’s collaboration at the Alan Alda Center for Communicating […]