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Welcome to RTI’s Center for Forensic Sciences!

The Center for Forensic Sciences leads programs that continuously improving the current state of forensic science and its application to public health and safety and the criminal justice system.

Vision

The RTI Center for Forensic Sciences focuses on continuous quality improvement to enhance the current state of forensic science and its applications. Our multidisciplinary approach to supporting advancements in forensic science allows us the insight and ability to craft individualized results. Through our collaborations with members of the forensic science community, including scientists that investigate crimes, deaths, and other threats to public safety and public health, we have the unique and distinct advantage of developing innovative techniques and actionable data to solve challenges faced by governmental agencies, forensic laboratories, and criminal justice practitioners.

Our highly skilled team of scientists and technical advisors perform research and create educational resources and quality assurance programs designed to improve the field of forensic science by turning knowledge into practice.

We have subject matter experts in several forensic disciplines and specialized topics including analytical techniques, chemistry, disaster victim identification, fingerprint examination, firearms and toolmarks examination, laboratory quality, leadership and management, medicolegal death investigation, molecular biology (DNA), and toxicology. We augment our expertise with external networks to address other disciplines such as digital evidence, fire and explosives examinations, handwriting analysis, questioned documents, and trace evidence examination (e.g., paints and polymers, glass, soil). We also work closely with stakeholder communities representing other disciplines—including anthropology, engineering, entomology, nursing, odontology, pathology, and psychiatry—practicing in academia, medical examiner or coroner offices, or professional settings.

Focus Areas

Research, Technology, and Evaluation

The Research, Technology, and Evaluation Program in the RTI Center for Forensic Sciences assesses the transition of investigative approaches and technologies impacting criminal justice and forensic practitioner communities globally. Our team of scientists and engineers have the advanced capabilities to discover solutions to scientific and public health challenges faced by all aspects of the criminal justice community.

Quality Assurance

The RTI Center for Forensic Sciences’ Laboratory Quality Assurance Program assesses, supports, and improves the quality of drug testing laboratories and criminal justice organizations in the United States and abroad. Our services develop and manage proficiency testing programs and forensic laboratory inspections as well as the design, preparation, and distribution of reference materials and quality assurance samples for clinical and forensic drug testing laboratories.

Translation and Implementation

The Forensic Science Translation and Implementation Program moves policy forward by focusing on innovative practices that strengthen justice and improve public safety through the delivery of efficient, interactive, and actionable solutions. We provide the forensic science, public safety, and justice communities with the latest professional and technical information from the field—sustaining knowledge adoption and implementation.