Ethics and Justice: Christi Guerrini on Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy’s Expanding Role

What are the ethical, legal, and social implications of using forensic investigative genetic genealogy (FIGG) in forensic science? At #ISHI35, Dr. Christi Guerrini, Associate Professor at Baylor College of Medicine, shared her insights on this transformative technique and its potential for justice and exoneration. In this fascinating interview, Dr. Guerrini discusses: 🔬 The ethical considerations […]
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 […]
A Leader in the Lab: Welcoming Courtney Campbell to the ISHI Advisory Committee

Forensic DNA is an ever-evolving field, requiring not only technical expertise but also leadership that fosters innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. It’s this combination of skills that makes Courtney Campbell such an exciting addition to the ISHI Advisory Committee. With two decades of experience at the Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS), Courtney has not […]
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! Volusia County Sheriff’s Office & District 7 Medical Examiner Team with Othram to Identify […]
Improving DNA Recovery: Collecting DNA from Adhesive Surfaces

How do you get the best DNA profile from adhesive surfaces like duct tape? At #ISHI35, ISHI Student Ambassador Ahana Chatterjee presented her groundbreaking research comparing direct lysis and swabbing techniques for DNA collection. In this engaging interview, Ahana discusses: 🔬 The challenges and innovations in collecting DNA from touch samples on duct tape and […]
Advancing the Core Science of Forensics through Collaboration

Written by Dr. Ashley Hall, UC Davis. Reposted from the ISHI Report with permission. The goal of the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors (ASCLD) Forensic Research Committee (FRC) is to advance the core science of forensics by closing technology gaps and enabling future forensic technologies through various strategic goals: a) identifying the research, development, […]
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! A Fresh Start for Queensland: Prosecutors Get $6M to Reduce DNA Backlog as Former […]
Dear Jacob: Patty Wetterling and Joy Baker on Advocacy, Hope, and Justice

In 1989, 11-year-old Jacob Wetterling was abducted, launching the largest manhunt in Minnesota history. For 27 years, the case remained unsolved—until a mother’s relentless hope and a blogger’s determination to uncover the truth led to a groundbreaking resolution. At ISHI 35, Patty Wetterling and Joy Baker shared their extraordinary journey: 🌟 How a mother who […]
Now Available to Watch On Demand: Post-Conviction DNA Testing in a Media Driven World

The pursuit of justice does not end with a conviction. For many individuals, especially those wrongfully incarcerated, post-conviction DNA testing offers a final chance to prove their innocence. This was the powerful theme of Murder Was the Case They Gave Me: Post-Conviction DNA Testing in a Media-Driven World, a webinar featuring legal experts, forensic scientists, […]