Emerging Expertise: Evaluating and Applying Emerging Forensic Techniques within the Criminal Justice System
Artifact 1: Forensic Genetic Genealogy Research Paper
In Fall of 2025, I completed this Honors research project for SPEA-J303: Evidence, under Professor Jillian Marconi. This assignment required an in-depth evaluation of a contemporary issue in forensic science and its admissibility in court. I chose to analyze forensic genetic genealogy (FGG), a developing investigative method that combines single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) DNA analysis with genealogical databases to identify suspects in high profile cases, like the Golden State Killer and Bryan Kohberger.
In this paper, I examined the specific differences between short tandem repeat (STR) and SNP analysis, evaluated FGG under the Frye and Daubert standards, and explored constitutional concerns surrounding privacy and the Fourth Amendment. This project challenged me to integrate the scientific principles that I use on a day-to-day basis, into evidentiary law and ethical reasoning for legal analysis.
This project demonstrates my emerging expertise in evaluating forensic evidence within legal frameworks. Rather than simply understanding how DNA analysis works, I critically assessed the reliability, standardization, and admissibility of a new and emerging technique. By analyzing error rates, database protocols, and constitutional implications, I developed a deeper understanding of how scientific advancements must withstand legal scrutiny. This ability to bridge the gap between laboratory science and courtroom standards reflects my growth and professional competency in the realm of forensic science.
Read my paper here!
Artifact 2: AI and the Future of Bite-Mark Analysis Poster
See my poster here!
This research poster was developed in the Forensic and Investigation Science capstone under Professor Donna Roskowski. The project examined the controversial history of bite-mark analysis and explored whether artificial intelligence (AI) technologies could improve its scientific reliability. Bite-mark analysis is often classified as "junk science," historically criticized for high error rates and subjective interpretation. It has faced increasing judicial scrutiny and declining admissibility.
In this review, I analyzed current scientific literature on Machine Learning (ML) and Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) as applied to forensic odontology. I evaluated whether AI-assisted systems could reduce human bias, improve reproducibility, and strengthen scientific validation. This project required deep analysis into the forensic science word, to research an area where question marks have been placed, along with synthesizing scientific research, technological advancements, and legal reliability concerns into a professional scientific presentational format.
This artifact reflects my emerging expertise in critically evaluating the scientific validity of forensic evidence. Rather than accepting bite-mark analysis at face value, I examined its methodological flaws and explored how AI technologies may address issues of bias, variability, and reproducibility. By analyzing the limitations of traditional techniques and assessing the role of MLs and CNNs in forensic odontology, I developed a stronger ability to question evidentiary reliability and advocate for rigorous validation standards. This skill is essential in modern forensic science, where scientific integrity directly impacts justice outcomes.
Artifact 3: Applied DNA Analysis & Courtroom Testimony
This project involves a full forensic DNA analysis of simulated case evidence, culminating in a mock expert witness testimony. Conducted as part of the Forensic and Investigative Science capstone, this experience replicates the procedural and evidentiary standards required in real forensic casework
Throughout this project, I conducted a full forensic DNA analysis workflow on biological evidence collected from a knife. This included presumptive and confirmatory serological testing to identify the presence of human blood, followed by DNA extraction, quantitation using qRT-PCR, PCR amplification of STR loci, and capillary electrophoresis for fragment separation and detection. I then interpreted STR profiles, performed statistical analysis (including Random Match Probability and Likelihood Ratio), and compared evidence profiles to reference samples.
In addition to laboratory analysis, I developed a comprehensive case file that included chain of custody documentation, laboratory workflow planning, and budget considerations to simulate real-world forensic constraints. The final stage of the project involved presenting and defending my findings during a simulated courtroom cross-examination in front of a judge and jury.
This project bridges laboratory science and courtroom communication, requiring not only technical precision, but the ability to clearly articular scientific findings within legal standards of admissibility. Unlike my previous research-based artifacts, this experience requires me to conduct hands-on laboratory procedures while maintaining strict documentation, chain of custody awareness, and methodological precision. Preparing for mock testimony will further strengthen my ability to translate complex scientific processes and results, into clear, easily understandable, legally defensible explanations. This integration of laboratory competency and courtroom communication reflects the professional standards required of forensic scientists operating within the justice system.
Read my final report here!
Reflection
Across these three experiences, I have developed an emerging expertise in evaluating and defending forensic evidence within legal and scientific standards. My Honors research on forensic genetic genealogy strengthened my ability to analyze reliability, admissibility, and constitutional implications. My research poster on AI in bite-mark analysis deepened my understanding of scientific literature, and how forensic methods must undergo rigorous validation and technological standardization to remain scientifically credible. Finally, my mock case allows me to apply these principles in a laboratory setting while defending my findings in simulated courtroom. Together, these experiences have shaped me into a more critical, ethically aware, and technically prepared forensic scientist, aligning directly with my goal of contributing to scientific-backed, rigorous practices within the legal frameworks.