Past Seasons

2023 Seasons & Special Release Episodes

Trauma-informed care extends beyond mental health services to various other sectors such as corrections, homeless services, child welfare, and schools. It can also be applied in the field of research, guiding decision-making and organizational structure which benefits both participants and researchers. A trauma-informed approach should be prioritized in research projects to address the impact of traumatic stress on mental and physical health. This involves creating safe environments and setting up study procedures that seek to avoid re-traumatizing participants. Just Science explores how experts apply this approach throughout the research process from project management to data collection and dissemination, revolutionizing organizations and promoting safety and support for all. 

This season is funded by the RTI International Justice Practice Area.

Episode 254 | Just Outreach and Dissemination with Trauma in Mind

Original Release Date: July 28, 2023   In the final episode of our Trauma-Informed Research Methods mini season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Noni Gaylord-Harden, a researcher from Texas A&M University, and Dr. Vicki Johnson-Lawrence, a researcher from RTI International,... read more

Episode 253 | Just Trauma-Informed Project Leadership

Original Release Date: July 21, 2023   In episode three of our Trauma-Informed Research Methods mini season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Rebecca Campbell, Professor of Psychology at Michigan State University, to discuss the importance of taking a trauma-informed... read more

Episode 252 | Just Methods for Trauma-Informed Data Collection

Original Release Date: July 14, 2023   In episode two of our Trauma-Informed Research Methods mini season, Just Science sat down with Katherine Bright, a sexual violence researcher, to discuss the importance of prioritizing trauma-informed data collection methods.   Researchers are... read more

Episode 251 | Just Trauma-Informed Research Methods

Original Release Date: July 7, 2023   In episode one of our Trauma-Informed Research Methods mini season, Drs. Jaclyn Houston-Kolnik, Hannah Feeney, and Rebecca Pfeffer, research scientists at RTI International, sat down to discuss incorporating trauma-informed practices when conducting research. ... read more

Each year, the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors (ASCLD) Symposium convenes a diverse group of forensic science practitioners from around the country in one place where they can discuss their challenges, successes, and shared experiences. This year’s symposium was held in Austin, Texas, where the theme was Resilient Leadership. The Forensic Technology Center of Excellence recorded on-site in the hopes of bringing a bit of this year’s symposium magic to you. Listen along as Just Science sits down with attendees and speakers at the 2023 ASCLD Symposium to discuss the importance of resilient leadership in forensic science, especially following the worst global pandemic in the past hundred years. 

This season is funded in part by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence (Award No. 15PNIJ-21-GK-02192-MUMU) and RTI International’s Justice Practice Area.

Episode 250 | Just Good Followership in Forensics

Original Release Date: June 30, 2023   In the final episode of our Resilient Leadership mini season, Just Science sat down with Brian Hoey from the Missouri State Highway Patrol Crime Laboratory to discuss the importance of practicing good followership... read more

Episode 249 | Just Embracing Imperfection in Forensic Science

Original Release Date: June 23, 2023   In episode 3 of our Resilient Leadership mini season, Just Science sat down with Jody Wolf, Crime Lab Administrator for the Phoenix Police Department; Tim Scanlan, president of Forensic Analysis, Consulting, and Training,... read more

Episode 248 | Just Collaboration in Forensic Research

Original Release Date: June 16, 2023   In episode 2 of our Resilient Leadership mini season, Just Science sat down with Henry Maynard to discuss the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors (ASCLD) Forensic Research Committee (FRC).   As researchers work... read more

Episode 247 | Just Thriving in a Forensic Workplace

Original Release Date: June 9, 2023   In episode one of our Resilient Leadership mini season, Just Science sat down with Jamilla Dick-Quashie, Director of Health and Safety, and Meredith Rosenberg, the Department of Forensic Biology Deputy Director, with the... read more

In this Special Release episode, Just Science sat down with Dr. Mohammed Almazrouei, a forensic practitioner with the Abu Dhabi Police, to discuss his dissertation work, which examines how workplace stressors may affect decision-making in the field of forensic science. Listen along as Dr. Almazrouei highlights some of the most salient workplace stressors in forensic science, how those stressors affect decision-making, and how he has laid the foundation for future research on this topic.

This episode of Just Science is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence (Award #: 15PNIJ-21-GK-02192-MUMU).

Episode 246 | Just Workplace Stress and its Impact on Decision-making in Forensics

Original Release Date: May 12, 2023   In this Special Release episode, Just Science sat down with Dr. Mohammed Almazrouei, a forensic practitioner with the Abu Dhabi Police, to discuss his dissertation work, which examines how workplace stressors may affect... read more

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month; a campaign designed to raise awareness for and provide methods to prevent sexual violence. In honor of Sexual Assault Awareness month, Just Science sat down with several experts whose research and career experience encompass a wide range of topics related to sexual assault cases. From conducting research on sexual violence to prosecuting assailants and caring for survivors, listen along as our guests provide invaluable insight into the ever-evolving field of sexual assault response reform. 

This season of Just Science is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence (Award #: 15PNIJ-21-GK-02192-MUMU).

 

Episode 245 | Just Sexual Assault Response in Indigenous Communities

Original Release Date: April 28, 2023   In episode four of our 2023 Sexual Assault Awareness Month mini season, Just Science sat down with Mark Pooley, founder of Native Search Solutions, to discuss how the challenges faced by indigenous communities... read more

Episode 244 | Just DNA Searches in CODIS

Original Release Date: April 21, 2023   In episode three of our 2023 Sexual Assault Awareness Month mini season, Just Science sat down with Orlando Salinas, Lieutenant Trampas Gooding, and Jennifer Pollock from the Texas Department of Public Safety to... read more

Episode 243 | Just Improved Response to Sexual Assault

Original Release Date: April 14, 2023   In episode two of our 2023 Sexual Assault Awareness Month mini season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Julie Valentine, the Associate Dean of the Brigham Young University College of Nursing, to discuss... read more

Episode 242 | Just DNA Evidence in Sexual Assault Cases

Original Release Date: April 7, 2023   In episode one of our 2023 Sexual Assault Awareness Month mini season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Julie Valentine, a certified Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner, to discuss how large-scale data collection can... read more

When someone dies unexpectedly or of unnatural causes, their death will likely be subject to a medicolegal death investigation to determine the cause and manner of death, identification of the decedent, and circumstances surrounding the death. This community is made up of forensic pathologists, medical examinerscoroners, autopsy technicians, forensic anthropologists, and moreThese professionals ensure deaths are thoroughly investigated, while ensuring respect and dignity for the decedents and their families after what is likely one of the most traumatic experiences of their lives. Our host for this mini season, Kelly Keyes, has over 20 years of experience as a medicolegal death investigator in a large coroner’s office. Listen along as Kelly interviews guests to learn more about how to get started in the field of medicolegal death investigation and some of the many roles that are involved in this community

This season of Just Science is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence (Award #: 15PNIJ-21-GK-02192-MUMU).

Episode 241 | Just Certification for Death Investigation

Original Release Date: March 17, 2023   In episode four of our Supporting Medicolegal Death Investigators mini season, Just Science sat down with Bridget Kinnier and Bethany Smith, the President and Executive Director of the American Board of Medicolegal Death... read more

Episode 240 | Just Family Support During Death Investigations

Original Release Date: March 10, 2023   In episode three of our Supporting Medicolegal Death Investigators mini season, Just Science sat down with Rebecca Reid, Laramie County Coroner in Wyoming, and Meghan Clarke, Family Advocate Coordinator at the Denver Office of the Medical Examiner,... read more

Episode 239 | Just Lending a Hand During Autopsy Exams

Original Release Date: March 3, 2023   In episode two of our Supporting Medicolegal Death Investigators mini season, Just Science sat down with Lindsey McNaughton, founder of the National Association of Forensic Autopsy Technicians, to discuss the importance of forensic... read more

Episode 238 | Just Internships for Death Investigation

Original Release Date: February 24, 2023   In episode one of our Supporting Medicolegal Death Investigators mini season, Just Science sat down with Cory Russo, Medical Examiner Investigator at the Utah State Office of the Medical Examiner, and Chelsea Brown,... read more

In cases where a decedents identity is unknown, forensic scientists can utilize a range of identification methods in order to give victim their name back and bring closure to their families. However, access to these important resources may vary across communities. In the Unidentified Human Remains mini season, we sit down with experts who explain how teeth, DNA samples, and more can contribute to identifying unknown human remainsTune in as we discuss specific cases where identification methods are utilized, the future of human identification technology, and much more.

This season of Just Science is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence (Award #: 15PNIJ-21-GK-02192-MUMU).

Episode 237 | Just Managing Mass Fatality Incidents

Original Release Date: February 17, 2023   In episode four of our Unidentified Human Remains mini season, Just Science sat down with Katharine Pope, a Research Public Health Analyst at RTI International, and Elissia Conlon, a Special Advisor to the New York City Office of... read more

Episode 236 | Just Investigative Support for Indigenous Communities

Original Release Date: February 10, 2023 In episode three of our Unidentified Human Remains mini season, Just Science sat down with Mark Pooley, founder of Native Search Solutions, and Dustin Driscoll, Research Public Health Analyst at RTI International, to... read more

Episode 235 | Just DNA Results in Rapid Time

Original Release Date: February 3, 2023 In episode two of our Unidentified Human Remains mini season, Just Science sat down with Neal Parsons, a Research Forensic Scientist at RTI International, to discuss how rapid DNA analysis has become an... read more

Episode 234 | Just Teeth and Technology

Original Release Date: January 27, 2023 In episode one of our Unidentified Human Remains mini season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Kenneth Aschheim, Assistant Chief Forensic Odontologist for the New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner, to discuss how dental evidence can... read more

2022 Seasons & Special Release Episodes

Over the past few years RTI International, the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have been working on understanding the main stressors which impact medicolegal death investigation or MDI professionals. One of the top stressors burdening the community was a lack of understanding from political stakeholders and community leaders. Listen along as Dr. Aurelius and Coroner McGinty discuss their firsthand experiences, funding gaps, and efforts to tackle this complex topic.  

This episode is funded by the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

 

Episode 229 | Just Misperceptions about the MDI Community

Original Release Date: November 11, 2022 In this special release episode, Just Science sat down with Dr. Michelle Aurelius, the Chief Medical Examiner for North Carolina, and Alfarena McGinty, the Chief Deputy Coroner for Marion County in Indianapolis, to... read more

Human trafficking, which is comprised of both sex and labor trafficking, is commonly understood to be a widespread global issue; however, there is still a lot that we don’t know. Human trafficking can look vastly different depending on the local community context in which it occurs, in terms of prevalence, type of exploitation, and survivor outcomes. Understanding these community-level differences is crucial when considering the appropriate response by policymakers, service-providers, healthcare providers, and law enforcement. Listen along as our guests describe their multi-pronged approach to human trafficking research, which helps to better meet the needs of survivors and their communities. 

 

This season of Just Science is funded by RTI International’s Justice Practice Area.

 

Episode 228 | Just Engaging Human Trafficking Survivors

Original Release Date: November 4, 2022 In episode four of our Human Trafficking Research season, Just Science sat down with Christina Melander, a research public health analyst at RTI International, to discuss the ongoing role of human trafficking survivors... read more

Episode 227 | Just Labor Trafficking in the U.S.

Original Release Date: October 28, 2022 In episode three of our Human Trafficking Research season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Rebecca Pfeffer and Dr. Kelle Barrick, both research criminologists at RTI International, to discuss the importance of labor... read more

Episode 226 | Just Measuring Survivor Outcomes

Original Release Date: October 21, 2022 In episode two of our Human Trafficking Research season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Stacey Cutbush Starseed, a social scientist at RTI International, to discuss the importance of conducting human trafficking survivor... read more

Episode 225 | Just Estimating the Prevalence of Human Trafficking

Original Release Date: October 14, 2022 In episode 1 of our Human Trafficking Research season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Rebecca Pfeffer and Dr. Kelle Barrick, both research criminologists at RTI International, to discuss how human trafficking researchers... read more

Identifying unknown human remains requires the strategic use of investigative techniques and scientific methods. This includes utilizing various forensic methods to gather the decedent’s biometrics, collecting familial reference samples for comparison, and inputting available information into comprehensive databases to facilitate connections to cases nationwide and internationally. These efforts can help bring closure to families, identify victims of mass disasters, and find missing persons. Listen along as our guests detail techniques for human identification including forensic genetic genealogy, postmortem fingerprinting, forensic anthropology, and forensic art, as well as the application of comprehensive databases to casework.

This season of Just Science is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence.

 

Episode 224 | Just Using Forensic Art and Anthropology for Identification

Original Release Date: September 30, 2022 In episode four of our Applications of Forensic Science for Human Identification season, Just Science sat down with Katharine Pope, a Research Public Health Analyst at RTI International, Dr. Bruce Anderson, a Forensic Anthropologist with the Pima... read more

Episode 223 | Just Leveraging Databases for Human Identification

Original Release Date: September 23, 2022 In episode three of our Applications of Forensic Science for Human Identification season, Just Science sat down with Lori Bruski and Amy Jenkinson, two Research Public Health Analysts at RTI International, to discuss interagency efforts to compile crime,... read more

Episode 222 | Just Identifying Decedents through Postmortem Prints

Original Release Date: September 16, 2022 In episode two of our Applications of Forensic Science for Human Identification season, Just Science sat down with Bryan Johnson, the Major Incident Program Manager in the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Latent Print Unit, to discuss... read more

Episode 221 | Just Identifying Individuals with Forensic Genetic Genealogy

Original Release Date: September 9, 2022 In episode one of our Applications of Forensic Science for Human Identification season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Heather McKiernan, a Research Forensic Scientist at RTI International, and Ashley Rodriguez, a Research Public Health Analyst at... read more

Case studies generate in-depth, multi-faceted understanding of complex issues in real-life contexts. As the criminal justice landscape continues to evolve, practitioners see and experience new and different cases every day. No two cases are alike and though it would be impossible to learn from all of them, this special Case Studies mini-season provides something for everyone. Listen in as our guests share tales of curious latent print evidence, a Sin City hit-and-run, forensic archeology in “no-body” homicides, an elusive serial rapist in the South, and more!

This season of Just Science is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence.

 

Episode 220 | Just Solving Cold Cases with Forensic Genetic Genealogy

Original Release Date: August 26, 2022 In episode four of our Case Studies: Part 1 mini season, Just Science sat down with Leighton D’Antoni, the Assistant District Attorney in Dallas County, Texas, to discuss how forensic genetic genealogy was... read more

Episode 219 | Just Forensic Archaeology and Body Dump Sites

Original Release Date: August 19, 2022 In episode three of our Case Studies: Part 1 mini season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Sharon Moses, an Associate Professor of Anthropology at Northern Arizona University, to discuss forensic archaeology and locating victims... read more

Episode 218 | Just Solving a Hit-and-Run in Sin City

Original Release Date: August 12, 2022 In episode two of our Case Studies: Part 1 mini season, Just Science sat down with Stacey Chepren, member of a trial team for prosecuting federal criminal misconduct cases, to discuss a fatal... read more

Episode 217 | Just a Curious Case of Print Persistence

Original Release Date: August 5, 2022 In episode one of our Case Studies: Part 1 mini season, Just Science sat down with Michael Fagert, a certified latent print examiner at the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, to discuss a latent print phenomenon that... read more

The Enhancing Conviction Integrity through Forensics training series delivers forensic-based training in an effort to ensure prosecutors and defense counsel trying violent crime cases, including cold cases and death penalty cases, have the knowledge and tools to effectively understand and present forensic evidence in court. The training seeks to ensure the integrity of the conviction and prevent wrongful convictions related to forensic evidence. Just Science sat down with several subject matter experts during this season to dive deeper into the concept of Conviction Integrity and how practitioners can support justified outcomes in the legal system.

This project was supported by Grant No. 2019-MU-BX-K011 awarded by the Bureau of Justice Assistance. The Bureau of Justice Assistance is a component of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs, which also includes the Bureau of Justice Statistics, the National Institute of Justice, the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, the Office for Victims of Crime, and the SMART Office. Points of view or opinions in this document are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of the U.S. Department of Justice.

 

Episode 216 | Just Best Practices in Maintaining Conviction Integrity

Original Release Date: July 29, 2022 In episode four of our Enhancing Conviction Integrity through Forensics mini-season, Just Science sat down with Patti Powers and John Wilkinson, two Attorney Advisors with AEquitas, to discuss the application of best practices... read more

Episode 215 | Just the Law Enforcement Perspective on Conviction Integrity

Original Release Date: July 22, 2022 In episode three of our Enhancing Conviction Integrity through Forensics mini-season, Just Science sat down with Jim Markey, a Senior Research Public Health Analyst with RTI International to discuss the critical role of... read more

Episode 214 | Just Incorporating Advocacy to Enhance Conviction Integrity

Original Release Date: July 15, 2022 In episode two of our Enhancing Conviction Integrity through Forensics mini-season, Just Science sat down with Amy Durall, a Project Manager with the International Association of Chiefs of Police to discuss the incorporation... read more

Episode 213 | Just Multidisciplinary Teams Enhancing Conviction Integrity

Original Release Date: July 8, 2022 In episode one of our Enhancing Conviction Integrity through Forensics mini-season, Just Science sat down with Patricia Powers, an Attorney Advisor with AEquitas to discuss the concept of Conviction Integrity and how practitioners... read more

The Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC) was established by the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) in 2004 to maintain and enhance the quality of forensic science education.  FEPAC-accreditation is one way for students and hiring managers to recognize and distinguish high-quality undergraduate and graduate forensic science programs. In addition to FEPAC, university faculty and forensic practitioners also emphasize the importance of support from the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) for student research projects as they prepare for a career in forensic science. During this season of Just Science, we sat down with distinguished university faculty, FEPAC Commissioners, and forensic practitioners to shed light on the benefits of accreditation, student research, and NIJ involvement in collegiate programs. Our guests provide insight on their FEPAC-accredited programs across forensic disciplines and share advice for current students, professors, and forensic professionals.

This season of Just Science is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence.

Episode 212 | Just the Forensic Laboratory Workforce Part 2

Original Release Date: June 24, 2022 In part-two of the final episode of our Strengthening the Forensic Workforce season, Just Science continued the conversation with Dr. Peter Stout, Dr. Ray Wickenheiser, and Matthew Gamette discussing the future of the... read more

Episode 211 | Just the Forensic Laboratory Workforce Part 1

Original Release Date: June 24, 2022 In the eighth episode of our Strengthening the Forensic Workforce season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Peter Stout, President of the Houston Forensic Science Center, Dr. Ray Wickenheiser, Director of the New... read more

Episode 210 | Just Forensic Toxicology and Professional Partnerships

Original Release Date: June 10, 2022 In episode seven of our Strengthening the Forensic Workforce season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Karen Scott, an Associate Professor, Forensic Toxicology Consultant, and Director of the Master of Science in Forensic Science program at Arcadia... read more

Episode 209 | Just Trace Evidence from Classroom to Courtroom

Original Release Date: June 17, 2022 In episode six of our Strengthening the Forensic Workforce season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Brooke Kammrath, a Professor of Forensic Science at the University of New Haven and Assistant Director of the Henry C. Lee Institute of... read more

Episode 208 | Just Just the Components of Forensic Biology and DNA

Original Release Date: June 3, 2022 In episode five of our Strengthening the Forensic Workforce season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Robin Cotton, Director of the Master of Science Program in Biomedical Forensic Sciences at Boston University School of Medicine, and Dr. Daniele... read more

Episode 207 | Just the Analysis of Impressions and Patterns

Original Release Date: May 27, 2022 In episode four of our Strengthening the Forensic Workforce season, Just Science sat down with Assistant Professor Jessica Zarate and 5th year student Kristen Szabelski at Madonna University in Michigan, as well as... read more

Episode 206 | Just Digital Forensics Program Development and Outlook

Original Release Date: May 20, 2022 In episode three of our Strengthening the Forensic Workforce season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Mark McCoy, Professor and Administrator of the Digital Evidence and Cyber Security Program at the University of... read more

Episode 205 | Just Higher Education and the CSI Effect

Original Release Date: May 13, 2022 In episode two of our Strengthening the Forensic Workforce season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Sarah Williams, a Research Associate Professor in Forensic Science at Virginia Commonwealth University, and Dr. Keith Morris,... read more

Episode 204 | Just FEPAC Accreditation and Forensic Chemistry Programs

Original Release Date: May 6, 2022 In episode one of our Strengthening the Forensic Workforce season, Just Science sat down with Dr. José Almirall, a Distinguished University Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Director of the National Science Foundation-funded Center... read more

Sexual Assault Awareness Month is observed every April as a campaign to increase awareness about sexual harassment, assault, and abuse. In honor of this effort, Just Science sat down with multiple subject matter experts to discuss recent developments in sexual assault response reform. Listen along as our guests discuss the latest research associated with the prevalence of strangulation in sexual assault cases, understanding how to identify and document strangulation while supporting safety concerns for victims in these cases, supporting and effectively prosecuting sexual assault cases with male and transgender victims, supporting victims of non-reported and anonymous sexual assault kits, and much more in this season of Just Science.   

This season of Just Science is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence.

 

Episode 203 | Just Trauma-Informed Approaches and Advocacy for Vulnerable Populations

Original Release Date: April 29, 2022 In the final episode of our 2022 Sexual Assault Awareness Month mini season, Just Science sat down with Natasha Alexenko, a sexual assault survivor, advocate, author, and founder of Natasha’s Justice Project, to... read more

Episode 202 | Just Research on Anonymous and Unreported Sexual Assault Cases

Original Release Date: April 22, 2022 In episode four of our 2022 Sexual Assault Awareness Month mini season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Rachael Goodman-Williams, Assistant Professor of Psychology at Wichita State University, and Dr. Jessica Volz, Clinical Director of Forensics... read more

Episode 201 | Just Trauma-Informed Patient Interviewing and Prevalence of Strangulation

Original Release Date: April 15, 2022 In episode three of our 2022 Sexual Assault Awareness Month mini season, Just Science sat down with Kelly Taylor, a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE), Sexual Assault Care Coordinator, and Forensic Healthcare Program Manager,... read more

Episode 200 | Just Research of Dating Apps and Violent Sexual Assault Cases

Original Release Date: April 8, 2022 In episode two of our 2022 Sexual Assault Awareness Month mini season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Julie Valentine, a Researcher, Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE), and the Associate Dean of Brigham... read more

hands togetherJust Science is excited to release our next mini season: Community Relations. This season dives deep into pressing issues of fairness and equity in the legal system. Tune in as experts and practitioners across a range of specializations discuss racial and socioeconomic disparities in the pretrial system, the impact of emerging technologies on police-community relationships, alternative responses to traditional law enforcement, and much more in this new season of Just Science.

This season of Just Science is funded in part by RTI’s Applied Justice Research Division and other projects. Please view the individual episode pages for more information about episode funding.  

Episode 198 | Just Emerging Technologies in Policing

Original Release Date: March 25, 2022 In the final episode of our Community Relations season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Mike Planty, the Director of RTI’s Center for Community Safety, to discuss how emerging technologies in policing affect... read more

Episode 197 | Just Responding to Cases of Interpersonal Violence

Original Release Date: March 18, 2022 In episode three of our Community Relations season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Nick Richardson, a research analyst in RTI’s Center for Community Safety, to discuss disparities in police responses to cases... read more

Episode 196 | Just Alternatives to Traditional Law Enforcement Responses

Original Release Date: March 11, 2022 In episode two of our Community Relations season, Just Science sat down with Lieutenant Renae Lockhart and Azalea Garza-Orozco with the ACORNS Unit at the Raleigh Police Department, as well as Brian Aagaard, a... read more

Episode 195 | Just Reforming Pretrial Policies

Original Release Date: March 4, 2022 In episode one of our Community Relations season, Just Science sat down with Monica Sheppard, a research analyst, and Dr. Yamanda Wright, a research psychologist in RTI’s Transformative Research Unit for Equity (TRUE),... read more

swabJust Science is excited to release our next season: Perspectives on At-Home Sexual Assault Kits. This season takes a closer look at DNA collection in sexual assault cases, with an emphasis on analyzing the efficacy of at-home sexual assault kits. In this new season of Just Science, tune in as we speak to a range of subject matter experts – all with varying perspectives on the topic – to discuss the role of at-home sexual assault kits when responding to sexual assault cases. 

This season is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence.  

Episode 194 | Just a Trauma-Informed Response to At-Home Sexual Assault Kits

Original Release Date: February 25, 2022 In the final episode of our Perspectives on At-Home Sexual Assault Kits season, Just Science sat down with Natasha Alexenko, Lieutenant Jordan Satinsky, and Marya Simmons to discuss at-home sexual assault kits through... read more

Episode 193 | Just a Prosecutor’s Perspective on At-Home Kits

Original Release Date: February 18, 2022 In episode seven of our Perspectives on At-Home Sexual Assault Kits season, Just Science sat down with Patti Powers, an attorney advisor at AEquitas and a former senior deputy prosecuting attorney in Washington state, to discuss at-home sexual assault... read more

Episode 192 | Just Analyzing At-Home Kits

Original Release Date: February 11, 2022 In episode six of our Perspectives on At-Home Sexual Assault Kits season, Just Science sat down with Jay Henry, the former Crime Laboratory Director of the Utah Department of Public Safety. Mr. Henry, an experienced forensic... read more

Episode 191 | Just Key Considerations for Investigations of Sexual Assault Cases

Original Release Date: February 4, 2022 In episode five of our Perspectives on At-Home Sexual Assault Kits season, Just Science sat down with Scott Mourtgos, a Ph.D. Candidate at the University of Utah, a National Institute of Justice (NIJ) LEADS Scholar,... read more

Episode 190 | Just Addressing Child Sexual Violence

Original Release Date: January 28, 2022 In episode four of our Perspectives on At-Home Sexual Assault Kits season, Just Science sat down with Laurieann Thorpe, the Executive Director at Prevent Child Abuse Utah, to continue our discussion on at-home... read more

Episode 189 | Just A Pediatric Viewpoint on At-Home Sexual Assault Kits

Original Release Date: January 21, 2022 In episode three of our Perspectives on At-Home Sexual Assault Kits season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Toni Laskey, a professor of pediatrics at the University of Utah School of Medicine and... read more

Episode 188 | Just the Intersection of At-Home Kits and Healing

Original Release Date: January 14, 2022 In episode two of our Perspectives on At-Home Sexual Assault Kits season, Just Science sat down with Monica Gardner, an advocate, a former rape crisis center team advocate, and a survivor of sexual abuse as a child and as... read more

Episode 187 | Just Supporting Evidence Collection in Sexual Assault Cases

Original Release Date: January 7, 2022 In episode one of our Perspectives on At-Home Sexual Assault Kits season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Julie Valentine, a researcher, sexual assault nurse examiner, and the Associate Dean of Brigham Young... read more

2021 Seasons & Special Release Episodes

Women are vastly underrepresented in the policing profession, accounting for only 12% of the police officers in the United States. Women police can increase legitimacy and trust within communities, and also improve department performance. Listen along as Dr. Jennifer Rineer and Maureen McGough discuss their research on this issue and the steps organizations are taking to increase women representation in policing in this episode of Just Science.

This episode is funded by the NIJ project titled From Research to Reality: Recruiting More Women into the Policing Profession (Award 2019-R2-CX-0027).

Episode 186 | Just Recruiting Women in Policing

Original Release Date: December 24, 2021 In this special release episode, Just Science sat down with Dr. Jennifer Rineer, a research psychologist and program manager in RTI International’s Center for Policing Research and Investigative Science, and Maureen McGough, Chief of Staff... read more

firearms researchJust Science is excited to release our next mini season: Firearms Research. From addressing deadly mass shootings to ensuring school safety, this season takes a closer look at research seeking to make communities safer from gun violence. Tune in as our experts discuss investigating gun crimes, strategies aimed at combatting firearm violence in schools, and valuable resources for practitioners interested in firearms research in this new season of Just Science.

This season of Just Science is funded in part by RTI International’s Applied Justice Research Division and other projects. Please view the individual episode pages for more information about episode funding.

Episode 185 | Just Mass Shooting Attacks

Original Release Date: December 17, 2021 In episode three of our Firearms Research mini season, Just Science sat down with Mark Pope, Director of the Policing Research Program within the Center for Policing Research & Investigative Science, and John Hollywood, Ph.D., a senior operations researcher at RAND and the... read more

Episode 184 | Just School Safety Tip Lines

Original Release Date: December 10, 2021 In episode two of our Firearms Research season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Josh Hendrix, a researcher at RTI International’s Center for Community Safety & Crime Prevention and an expert in school safety and violence prevention, to discuss school... read more

Episode 183 | Just Advanced Capabilities in Firearm and Toolmark Analysis

Original Release Date: December 3, 2021 In episode one of our Firearms Research season, Just Science sat down with Nicole Jones, the Director of the Forensic Science Translation and Implementation Program in the Center for Forensic Sciences at RTI... read more

scientistsForensics is a fast-growing field making the need for racial and gender representation among its practitioners critically important. In this special release episode, Just Science sat down with Donia Slack and Dale Hart to discuss the importance of diversity and inclusion in forensics. From confronting biased research to experiencing microaggressions and feelings of “imposter syndrome,” our expert panelists know the realities of being underrepresented in the field. Listen along as they detail their experiences as forensic scientists of color, articulate how bias and underrepresentation can produce flawed findings, and discuss the impact that diversity and inclusion has had in their careers in this episode of Just Science.

This episode of Just Science is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence.

Episode 182 | Just Diversity & Inclusion in Forensic Science

Original Release Date: November 19, 2021 In this special release episode, Just Diversity & Inclusion in Forensic Science, Just Science sat down with Donia Slack, the Director of the Research, Technology, and Evaluation Program in RTI’s Center for Forensic Sciences,... read more

Despite being virtual, NIJ’s 2021 R&D Symposium was one of the most successful iterations of this meeting to date. With over 600 attendees across the globe, the audience was exceptionally diverse in terms of location and forensic discipline. In this Just Science mini-series, we sat down with the program managers of the four NIJ forensic portfolios to discuss the symposium and the future of their respective research areas. Listen along as our guests discuss research and emerging topics in various forensic disciplines, including seized drugs and toxicology; impression, pattern, and trace evidence; anthropology and forensic pathology; and DNA and biology!

This season of Just Science is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence. 

Episode 166 | Just the Biology and DNA Portfolio

In episode four of our 2021 NIJ R&D and Beyond mini season, Just Science sat down with Tracey Johnson, a physical scientist and program manager in the Office of Investigative and Forensic Sciences at NIJ, to discuss the NIJ Biology and... read more

Episode 165 | Just Forensic Anthropology and Forensic Pathology Portfolio

In episode three of our 2021 NIJ R&D and Beyond mini season, Just Science sat down with Danielle McLeod-Henning, a physical scientist and program manager in the Office of Investigative and Forensic Sciences at NIJ, to discuss Forensic Anthropology and Forensic Pathology.   Danielle McLeod-Henning has been the physical scientist in charge of the... read more

Episode 164 | Just the Impression and Pattern/Trace Evidence Portfolio

In episode two of our 2021 NIJ R&D and Beyond mini season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Gregory Dutton, a physical scientist in the Office of Investigative and Forensic Sciences at the National Institute of Justice, to discuss NIJ’s Impression, Pattern, and Trace Evidence research portfolio.    Between latent... read more

Episode 163 | Just Seized Drugs and Toxicology Portfolio

In episode one of our 2021 NIJ R&D and Beyond mini season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Frances Scott, a physical scientist in the Office of Investigative and Forensic Sciences at the National Institute of Justice, to discuss... read more

As national efforts to address sexual assault response reform continue to grow, more and more jurisdictions are resolving their sexual assault kit backlog and identifying causes associated with the accumulation of sexual assault kits. In honor of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Just Science sat down with leaders in the field of sexual assault response reform to talk about current issues in this arena, including the impact of COVID-19. Listen along as our guests discuss methods for supporting victims of sexual assault while presenting considerations and resources for improving sexual assault response reform in this special release season of Just Science.

This episode of Just Science is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence.

Episode 162 | Just a Guide to Sexual Assault Response Reform

In episode three of our Sexual Assault Awareness Month mini season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Patricia Melton, co-director of the Bureau of Justice Assistance’s National Sexual Assault Kit Initiative Training and Technical Assistance program, to discuss a new resource that will help criminal... read more

Episode 161 | Just Victim Advocacy During a Pandemic

In episode two of our Sexual Assault Awareness Month mini season, Just Science sat down with Marya Simmons, founder and CEO of Shift in Notion Consulting, to discuss victim advocacy during a pandemic.     The arena of sexual assault response reform has... read more

Episode 160 | Just a Survivor’s Perspective and Reflection

In episode one of our 2021 Sexual Assault Awareness Month mini season, Just Science sat down with author, non-profit founder, and sexual assault survivor Natasha Alexenko to discuss her book, A Survivor’s Journey, and the importance of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Every survivor of... read more

Despite national efforts to reduce the impact, illicit substance abuse continues to rise in the U.S. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that there were an average of 128 opioid related deaths per day in 2018. These numbers continue to rise. In order to meet the challenge head on, scientists, community leaders, justice professionals, and everyday citizens are working tirelessly to slow the abuse of opioids and reduce the impact that they have on our communities. In this season of Just Science, we’re sitting down with experts in the field to discuss topics like stigma, recovery, policy solutions, public safety systems, identifying drug trends, and much more.

 

This season is funded in part by the Bureau of Justice Assistance’s Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Abuse Program and the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence.

Episode 159 | Just Polysubstance Use and the Importance of Data Trends

In episode ten, Just Science interviews Josh Yohannan, a forensic chemist and expert in emerging drug trends, about polysubstance use in the opioid overdose epidemic.  Polysubstance use dramatically increases the potential for overdose or negative side effects of drug use. While there is no “one-size-fits-all” description... read more

Episode 158 | Just Addressing the Stigma of Substance Abuse Disorder

In episode nine, Just Science interviews Clarence Jordan, the Vice President of Wellness and Recovery at Beacon Health Options, to discuss stigma and its impact to programs designed to support those with substance use disorder and on individual level outcomes. There is no shortage of stigma surrounding the overdose crisis facing... read more

Episode 157 | Just the DEA National Forensic Laboratory Information System

In episode eight, Just Science interviews DeMia Pressley from the DEA’s Diversion Control Division to discuss the importance of information sharing across law enforcement and public health agencies through forensic partnerships.  The National Forensic Laboratory Information System, otherwise known as NFLIS, is... read more

Episode 156 | Just Building Policy From The Ground Up

In episode seven, Just Science interviews Dr. Alex Kral, an infectious disease epidemiologist at RTI International, about innovative policy solutions to improve outcomes for people with substance use disorder. Community-based research takes place within community settings and involves community members which allows a better understanding of the struggles... read more

Episode 155 | Just Alternative Crisis Response: One Community’s Experience

In episode six, Just Science interviews Tim Black of the White Bird Clinic in Eugene, Oregon about the CAHOOTS program, a community-based public safety model that provides mental health first response for crises involving mental illness, homelessness, and substance... read more

Episode 154 | Just Partnerships To Enhance Overdose Fatality Review

Episode Overview In episode five, Just Science interviews Dr. Mallory O’Brien, Assistant Professor at the Medical College of Wisconsin, to discuss how partnerships can enhance Overdose Fatality Reviews.  The National Violent Death Reporting System (NVDRS) is the only state-based reporting system that... read more

Episode 153 | Just the Story of the Healthy Grandfamilies Project

Episode Overview In episode four, Just Science sat down with Bonnie Dunn, Co-Director of the West Virginia Healthy Grandfamilies Project, to discuss a free initiative that provides information and resources to grandparents who are raising one or more of their grandchildren.  Children can be deeply... read more

Episode 152 | Just The Importance of Identifying Emerging Drug Threats

Episode Overview In episode three, Just Science sat down with Amanda Mohr and Dr. Alex Krotulski from the Center for Forensic Science Research and Education to discuss the analytical and interpretative challenges associated with emerging drug threats.  The Center for Forensic Science Research and Education,... read more

Episode 151 | Just the Intersection of Opioids and Illicit Stimulants: Part 2

Episode Overview This week, we continue the conversation with Dr. Zibbell as he discusses the American history of drug epidemics, what we can learn from past stimulant crises, and the importance of tailoring interventions in this episode of Just Science.  This season is in collaboration with the... read more

Episode 150 | Just the Intersection of Opioids and Illicit Stimulants: Part 1

Episode Overview In the first half of this two-part episode, Just Science sat down with Dr. Jon Zibbell, a Senior Public Health Analyst from RTI International, to discuss the waves of the opioid epidemic and their impact on communities.   The world of medical anthropology offers a very different perspective of the current rise... read more

brain & flowerJust Science is excited to release our next mini season: Workforce Resiliency. From sexual assault nurse examiners (SANEs) to medicolegal death investigators (MDIs), this season takes a closer look at forensic science practitioners performing their jobs under difficult circumstances. Tune in as we discuss the realities of work-related stress and vicarious trauma, as well as strategies to mitigate their effects in this new season of Just Science.

This season is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence.

Episode 181 | Just Literature on Stress & Resiliency in Forensic Science

Original Release Date: November 12, 2021 In episode four of our Workforce Resiliency mini season, Just Science sat down with Donia Slack, the Director of the Research, Technology, and Evaluation Program in RTI’s Center for Forensic Sciences, to discuss the literature... read more

Episode 180 | Just Workforce Resiliency for Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners Part 2

Original Release Date: November 5, 2021 In episode three of our Workforce Resiliency mini season, Just Science continues our conversation with Dr. Cara Berg Raunick, a women’s health nurse practitioner and the Director of Clinical Quality and Advancement at Health Care... read more

Episode 179 | Just Workforce Resiliency for Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners Part 1

Original Release Date: October 29, 2021 In episode two of our Workforce Resiliency mini season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Cara Berg Raunick, a women’s health nurse practitioner and the Director of Clinical Quality and Advancement at Health Care Education and Training,... read more

Episode 178 | Just Workforce Resiliency for MDIs

Original Release Date: October 22, 2021 In the first episode of our Workforce Resiliency season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Jennifer Rineer, a program manager and research psychologist in RTI International’s Center for Policing Research and Investigative Science, and Kelly Keyes, a research... read more

In response to the success of our sexual assault response reform mini season for Sexual Assault Awareness Month in April of 2021, Just Science is excited to release our next season: Research and Considerations for Sexual Assault Cases. This multi-faceted season covers a variety of topics within the arena of sexual assault response reform, including sexual assault kit standardization, crossover offending, lawfully owed DNA, victim-centered interviewing, touch DNA, partially tested sexual assault kits, and much more. Tune in as we unpack sexual assault myths and address some of the key issues currently associated with sexual assault response reform in this new season of Just Science.

This season of Just Science is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence. 

Episode 177 | Just Standardizing Sexual Assault Kits

Original Release Date: September 24, 2021 In episode eleven of our Research and Considerations for Sexual Assault Cases season, Just Science sat down with Maureen Platt, State’s Attorney for the Judicial District of Waterbury, CT, Denise Covington, Program Manager at the... read more

Episode 175 | Just Advocating for Older Survivors

Original Release Date: September 10, 2021 In episode nine of our Research and Considerations for Sexual Assault Cases season, Just Science sat down with Ms. Marya Simmons, founder and CEO of Shift in Notion Consulting, to discuss considerations for supporting older survivors of sexual assault.  Shift... read more

Episode 174 | Just Considerations for Older Survivors

In episode eight of our Research and Considerations for Sexual Assault Cases season, Just Science sat down with Patricia Powers to discuss considerations for sexual assault cases involving older victims. During her professional career as a prosecuting attorney, Patricia... read more

Episode 173 | Just Partially Tested Sexual Assault Kits

In episode seven of our Research and Considerations for Sexual Assault Cases season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Rachel Lovell and Mary Weston to discuss resolving partially tested sexual assault kits. Partially tested sexual assault kits create a... read more

Episode 172 | Just Supporting Male Survivors of Sexual Assault

In episode six of our Research and Considerations for Sexual Assault Cases season, Just Science sat down with Patricia Powers, an attorney adviser with AEquitas, to discuss supporting male victims of sexual assault through the criminal legal system.  Research suggests... read more

Episode 171 | Just Advocacy for Male Survivors of Sexual Assault

In episode five of our Research and Considerations for Sexual Assault Cases season, Just Science sat down with Marya Simmons, founder and CEO of Shift in Notion Consulting, to discuss advocacy for male survivors of sexual assault. One of... read more

Episode 170 | Just a Cost Benefit Analysis of Sexual Assault Investigation

In episode four of our Research and Considerations for Sexual Assault Cases season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Rachel Lovell, Research Assistant Professor at Case Western Reserve University, and Mary Weston, Assistant Prosecuting Attorney at the Cuyahoga County... read more

Episode 169 | Just Trauma-Informed Victim-centered Interviewing

In episode three of our Research and Considerations for Sexual Assault Cases season, Just Science sat down with Natasha Alexenko, Jordan Satinsky, and Marya Simmons to discuss trauma informed, victim-centered interviewing for sexual assault cases.    A sexual assault victim’s experiences with law enforcement and... read more

Episode 168 | Just Touch DNA and Sexual Assault Groping Cases

In episode two of our Research and Considerations for Sexual Assault Cases season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Julie Valentine, Associate Dean and Associate Professor at Brigham Young University in the College of Nursing and certified sexual assault nurse forensic... read more

Episode 167 | Just Lawfully Owed DNA

In episode one of our Research and Considerations for Sexual Assault Cases season, Just Science sat down with Dr. Rachel Lovell, Research Assistant Professor at Case Western Reserve University, and Mary Weston, Assistant Prosecuting Attorney at the Cuyahoga County Prosecutor’s Office, to discuss lawfully... read more

2020 Seasons & Special Release Episodes

Criminal investigations often necessitate the application of a multitude of forensic disciplines. While some cases can be solved by a single piece of evidence, most have a myriad of evidence types to forward and investigation. Bloodstains, DNA analysis, latent prints, digital evidence, and reliable police work lead to arrests and can stop a criminal before any more damage is done.  In our latest season, Case Studies, we sat down with a variety of experts and talked about their most interesting cases. Join us as we discuss bloodstain pattern analysis, photography, serial killers, and much more in this dynamic season of Just Science! 

This season of Just Science is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence.

Episode 149 | Just Off The Shelf Forensics

Episode Overview In the final episode of the Case Studies season, Just Science sat down with Tim Schade and Brian Cochran to discuss off-the-shelf crime scene processing products.  Budgetary concerns often plague smaller forensic labs and law enforcement agencies. Scene investigators might realize that some of those expensive forensic tools might not be attainable... read more

Episode 148 | Just Erroneous Identification

Episode Overview In episode seven of the Case Studies season, Just Science sat down with John Vanderkolk and Marcus Montooth of the Indiana State Police to discuss erroneous identification and the Lana Canen case. In 2005, Lana Canen was... read more

Episode 147 | Just Identifying Fingerprints Through Photographs

Episode Overview In episode six of the Case Studies season, Just Science sat down with Karen Oswald, Senior Evidence Specialist with the Suffolk County Police Department in New York, to discuss methods for identifying fingers and hands captured in evidentiary photos.    As... read more

Episode 146 | Just the Grim Sleeper Serial Killer

Rockne P. Harmon is currently employed as a consultant to numerous law enforcement agencies dealing with such issues as cold case investigation and other issues related to forensic DNA typing. He is currently an Instructor at U.C. Davis in the Masters... read more

Episode 145 | Just Fingerprints And Lasers

Episode Overview In episode four of the Case Studies Season, Just Science sat down with forensic consultant, author, and instructor Brian Dalrymple to discuss his research and impact on the field of latent print identification.  In 1977, a team... read more

Episode 144 | Just the Jodi Arias Case

In June of 2008, Travis Alexander was found dead in the bathroom of his home. His killer, ex-girlfriend Jodi Arias, was found guilty of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison. Heather Conner and her team used a... read more

Episode 143 | Just the Story Behind Bloodstain Pattern Analysis

Not all crime scenes will have bloodstains. But when they are present, analysts can use them to help determine the types of activities or mechanisms that produced them. Erin Sims believes that bloodstain patterns can tell the unknown story... read more

Episode 142 | Just Psychopathy and Criminal Behavior

Episode Overview Criminal investigations often necessitate the application of a multitude of forensic disciplines. While some cases can be solved by a single piece of evidence, most have a myriad of evidence types to forward and investigation. Bloodstains, DNA analysis, latent prints,... read more

In this Forensic Science Week special episode, Just Science interviews Brett Williams, the CEO of Verogen, about the GEDmatch database, how it can be used by law enforcement to perform forensic genealogy searches for investigative leads, and the short- and long-term plans Verogen has for the widely used database and related services. Listen along with our guest host, Donia Slack, as she and Brett Williams discuss the impact that genetic genealogy and GEDmatch have had on the criminal justice system in this episode of Just Science.

This episode is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence.  

Episode 141 | Just Forensic Genetic Genealogy and GEDmatch:  Verogen’s Approach

Episode Overview In this Forensic Science Week special episode, Just Science interviews Brett Williams, the CEO of Verogen, about the GEDmatch database, how it can be used by law enforcement to perform forensic genealogy searches for investigative leads, and the short- and... read more

While the realm of digital evidence is still relatively new, it requires validation and testing like all forensic disciplines. Digital evidence is a dynamic discipline that can often provide greater insight into the investigation of a crime or the defense of the alleged perpetrator. In this season of Just Science, we will be covering the history and interpretation of digital evidence, emerging technologies used in investigation and as evidence, and the validation of digital forensic tools.

This season is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence. 

Episode 140 | Just the Impact of Disturbing Media

In episode eight, Just Science interviews Dr. Kathryn Seigfried-Spellar from Purdue University about the impact of disturbing media on forensic professionals.  Repeated exposure to violent and graphic media can have long-term negative effects on digital forensic examiners. Dr. Kathryn Seigfried-Spellar is researching the connection between disturbing media and the examiners who analyze it... read more

Episode 139 | Just Deepfakes

In episode seven, Just Science interviews Dr. Catalin Grigoras and Cole Whitecotton from the National Center for Media Forensics about deepfakes.  Deepfakes are a form of synthetic media that replace an existing image with someone else’s likeness. While relatively new, deepfake technology has grown in... read more

Episode 138 | Just NIST’s Digital Forensics Black Box Study

In episode six, Just Science interviews Barbara Guttman from the National Institute of Standards and Technology about the first large-scale black box study to test the accuracy of computer and mobile phone forensics. In forensic science, black box studies are used to measure the reliability... read more

Episode 137 | Just Digital Evidence 101

>In episode five, Just Science interviews Matt Ruddell from Florida International University about their efforts to develop forensic education and training programs at FIU. The National Forensic Science Technology Center at Florida International University offers a variety of courses,... read more

Episode 136 | Just Data Stories

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Episode 135 | Just Digital Evidence in the Courts of Appeals

In episode three, Just Science interviews Martin Novak, a Computer Scientist with the National Institute of Justice, about digital evidence in the United States Court of Appeals.  Digital evidence has the capacity to identify suspects, win acquittals, and obtain convictions. Whether through cars,... read more

Episode 134 | Just A Public Defender’s Perspective

In episode two, Just Science interviews Nicolas Hughes, assistant public defender with the Harris County Public Defender’s Office in Houston, TX, about the validation of tools utilized by digital forensics laboratories. Many forensic laboratories face overwhelming caseloads; digital forensic labs are no exception. The diversity and complexity of devices that... read more

Episode 133 | Just the Evolution of Digital Evidence

While the realm of digital evidence is still relatively new, it requires validation and testing like all forensic disciplines. Digital evidence is a dynamic discipline that can often provide greater insight into the investigation of a crime or the... read more

In this special release episode of Just Science, we sat down with Ashley Church and Erin West, founders of Gap Science, to discuss stress and resiliency in crime scene investigators. Traumatic death investigation can have adverse, long-term effects on crime scene analysts.  As Ashley Church and Erin West moved through their respective careers, they noticed a lack of training around protecting the psychological well-being of forensic scientists. Gap Forensics is working to fill this void in knowledge and address the challenges that investigators are experiencing every day. Listen along as our guests discuss compassion fatiguethe supervisor’s role in protecting their people, and the impact of violent crime scenes on forensic scientists in this episode of Just Science.

This episode of Just Science is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence.

Episode 132 | Just Applied Leadership for Resiliency in CSIs

In this special release episode of Just Science, we sat down with Ashley Church and Erin West, founders of Gap Science, to discuss stress and resiliency in crime scene investigators.  Traumatic death investigation can have adverse, long-term effects on crime scene analysts.  As Ashley Church and Erin West moved... read more

This week on Just Science, we are publishing a special release episode in honor of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Social distancing, shelter in place, and other responses to COVID-19 can create a stressful environment for survivors of sexual assault especially if they feel they cannot access resources or are physically unable to seek help. In addition, highly stressful situations that result from significant amounts of change, such as unemployment, disruption in ‘normal’ activities, and social isolation may increase the risk of domestic violence and sexual assault. In this podcast, we will discuss what services are available to survivors of sexual assault, including leveraging on-line platforms and modified strategies for first responders, rape crisis centers, and victim advocates. We will also discuss how we as a friend, family member, and community can be prepared to respond to a victim of sexual assault in this challenging time.

This episode of Just Science is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence.

Episode 129 | Just COVID-19: The Impact to Supporting Victims of Sexual Assault

This week on Just Science, we are publishing a special release episode in honor of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Social distancing, shelter in place, and other responses to COVID-19 can create a stressful environment for survivors of sexual assault... read more

The 2020 NIJ R&D Season of Just Science features some of the research presented at the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Science Research and Development Symposium. Some of the interviews in this season were recorded at the 2020 AAFS 72nd Annual Scientific Meeting in Anaheim, CA, a professional meeting where attendees work to advance science, foster research, and promote collaboration within the various forensic science disciplines. This season’s topics include the analysis of fentanyl compounds in emerging drugs, a tool for species identification of skeletal remains, methods for analyzing beverages for cannabinoids, the detection of firearm discharge via electrochemical sensors, and more. Tune in this spring to learn more about NIJ’s diverse research portfolio!

This season of Just Science is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence. 

Episode 131 | Just Mitochondrial DNA

In episode seven of the 2020 R&D Season, Just Science interviews Kimberly Sturk-Andreaggi, a Research Scientist at the Armed Forces DNA Identification Laboratory, about the development of entire mitogenome reference data using an automated high-throughput sequencing workflow.   Disaster victim... read more

Episode 130 | Just a Statistical Approach to Glass Evidence

In episode six of the 2020 R&D Season, Just Science interviews Dr. José Almirall, Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Florida International University, about a statistical approach for the interpretation of glass evidence. One criticism levied against trace evidence... read more

Episode 128 | Just Blowflies and Extreme Temperatures

In episode five of the 2020 R&D Season, Just Science interviews Dr. Travis Rusch, a postdoctoral research associate at Texas A&M University, about fluctuating temperatures in forensically important blowflies. Forensic entomologists use predictable developmental rates of certain necrophagus insects to estimate time of colonization, postmortem interval, and time... read more

Episode 127 | Just Quick Screening Methods for Firearm Discharge Residues

In this episode of the 2020 R&D Season, Just Science interviews Dr. Tatiana Trejos, Assistant Professor of the Department of Forensic and Investigative Sciences at West Virginia University, about the rapid detection of organic and inorganic gunshot residue. Speed... read more

Episode 126 | Just Analyzing Beverages for Cannabinoids

In episode three of the 2020 R&D Season, Just Science interviews Dr. Carl Wolf from the Medical College of Virginia Hospitals about 40 plus ways NOT to analyze beverages for cannibinoids. From professional student, to a leading researcher in... read more

Episode 125 | Just Skeletal Remains Identification

In episode two of the 2020 R&D Season, Just Science interviews Dr. Heather Garvin, Associate Professor of Anatomy at Des Moines University, about her work with OSTEOID, an online resource for species identification of skeletal remains.  Approximately 30-40% of cases involving skeletal remains received by forensic anthropologists end up... read more

Episode 124 | Just Another Method for Detecting Fentanyl

In episode one of the 2020 R&D Season, Just Science interviews Dr. Ling Wang, post-doctoral associate at Florida International University, about the detection and quantitation of fentanyl mixtures by Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy and Chemometrics. Opioid abuse has grown... read more

The American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) Humanitarian and Human Rights Resource Center (HHRRC) seeks to promote humanitarian and human rights action in the field of forensic sciences. This effort would not be possible without the support provided by NIJ’s FTCoE and AAFS. The HHRRC improves the practice of forensic science and strengthens its impact on humanitarian and human rights issues through education and dissemination of best practices and guidelines. In this Just So You Know episode, Just Science sat down with Dr. Duarte Nuno Vieira and Dr. Cláudia Plens for a look at how NIJ’s support of the HHRRC aids their mission. Tune in as we gain a broader understanding of humanitarian forensic action and how the HHRRC impacts forensic research around the world.

This episode of Just Science is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence.

Episode 123 | Just So You Know: The HHRRC’s Impact

The American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) Humanitarian and Human Rights Resource Center (HHRRC) seeks to promote humanitarian and human rights action in the field of forensic sciences. This effort would not be possible without the support provided by... read more

Researchers, academics, and forensic scientists are constantly striving to make improvements to existing processes within the criminal justice system. While many advancements have been made in recent years, there will always be room for growth and change. To begin 2020, Just Science will be meeting with leaders in the field to discuss the current state of the criminal justice system and the advancements they anticipate in the coming years. Listen along as we talk to representative from the National Institute of Justice, the National Institute of Standards and Technology, and the Innocence Project about their efforts to support and improve the criminal justice system.

This episode of Just Science is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence.

Episode 122 | Improving the System: Just the Innocence Project

In episode four of the Improving the System season. Just Science interviews Sarah Chu, Senior Adviser on Forensic Science Policy at the Innocence Project, about their work to end wrongful conviction. Currently, there are over 2,500 cases on the National Registry... read more

Episode 121 | Improving the System: Just the Organization of Scientific Area Committees

In episode three of the Improving the System season, Just Science interviews John Paul Jones and Mark Stolorow of NIST about the Organization of Scientific Area Committees for Forensic Science. The 2009 National Academy of Sciences report on forensic science cited... read more

Episode 120 | Improving the System: Just a Profile in Forensic R&D Innovations

In episode two of the Improving the System season, Just Science met with Gerry LaPorte, former Director of the Office of Investigative and Forensic Sciences at NIJ, to discuss forensic science research and development innovations. Over the course of his... read more

Episode 119 | Improving the System: Just the NIJ Needs Assessment of Forensic Laboratories and Medical Examiner/Coroner Offices

In episode one of the Improving the System season, Just Science interviews Dr. Jonathan McGrath, Senior Policy Analyst in the Office of Investigative and Forensic Sciences at the National Institute of Justice, about the recently published NIJ Needs Assessment of... read more

2019 Seasons & Special Release Episodes

DNA evidence has had a significant impact on the criminal justice system. Since the National Commission on the Future of DNA evidence in the 1990s, DNA has evolved into one of the most respected disciplines in forensic science. The DNA season of Just Science focuses on DNA evidence and its use in forensic investigation. Topics include the impact of DNA evidence, the use of familial DNA in investigations, databases, case studies, and strategies to improve workflow efficiencies.

This season of Just Science is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence.

Episode 117 | Just the Impact of Lawfully-Owed DNA Collection

In the final episode of the DNA season, Just Science interviews Jayann Sepich, co-founder of the non-profit organization DNA Saves, about lawfully owed arrestee DNA.  In 2003, 22-year-old Katie Sepich was raped and murdered within five blocks of her home in New Mexico. Using... read more

Episode 116 | Just USACIL and Direct-to-DNA

In episode seven of the DNA season, Just Science interviews Molly Hall, an examiner for the United States Army Criminal Investigation Laboratory, about their transition to a Direct-to-DNA approach to processing sexual assault kits.   The United States Army Criminal Investigation... read more

Episode 115 | Just Improving Workflow Efficiency 

Just Improving Workflow Efficiency  In episode six of the DNA season, Just Science interviews Leslie Parke and Jamie Haas of Signature Science, a private DNA laboratory based in Austin, Texas, about increasing workflow efficiency in their lab.  From twenty cases... read more

Episode 114 |  Just the Golden State Killer

 Just the Golden State Killer In the last episode of Just Science, Dr. Barbara Rae-Venter shared her techniques for creating family trees and discussed the resolution of her first cold case. In episode five of the DNA season, we... read more

Episode 113 | Just Investigative Genetic Genealogy

Just Investigative Genetic Genealogy In episode four of the DNA season, Just Science interviews Dr. Barbara Rae-Venter, genetic genealogist and volunteer search angel with DNAadoption.org, about investigative genetic genealogy and its use in forensic science.  From computer programmer to patent attorney,... read more

Episode 112 | Just Six Sigma and Your Lab

Just Six Sigma and Your Lab In episode three of the DNA season, Just Science interviews Julie Sikorsky, Forensic Biology Unit Manager at the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, about her experience introducing an efficiency program into her lab.... read more

Episode 111 | Just Genetic Variation

Just Genetic Variation In episode two of the DNA season, Just Science interviews Dr. Kenneth Kidd, Professor Emeritus of Genetics at Yale University, about his research in genetics. Dr. Kenneth Kidd has been working on grants from the National Institute... read more

Episode 110 | Just DNA and the Post-Conviction Dynamic

Just DNA and the Post-Conviction Dynamic In episode one of the DNA season, Just Science interviews Chris Asplen, Executive Director of National Criminal Justice Association, about the evolution of DNA evidence. Listen along as our guest discusses the value... read more

The last Census of Medical Examiners and Coroners was conducted in 2004 and stands as one of the most important resources for budget makers and policy changers. Since then, the realm of MDI has changed dramatically. With that in mind, BJS and RTI International are working tirelessly to create a useful tool that captures all the nuances of this field. Listen in as our guests discuss the development of the survey, the types of data being collected, and the impact that the survey will have on the MDI community. Unchanged: The last Census of Medical Examiners and Coroners was conducted in 2004 and stands as one of the most important resources for budget makers and policy changers. Since then, the realm of MDI has changed dramatically. With that in mind, BJS and RTI International are working tirelessly to create a useful tool that captures all the nuances of this field. Listen in as our guests discuss the development of the survey, the types of data being collected, and the impact that the survey will have on the MDI community.

This episode is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence.  

Episode 109 | Just the Census of Medical Examiners and Coroners

In this special release episode, Just Science interviews Dr. Hope Smiley-McDonald and Connor Brooks about the Bureau of Justice Statistics’ Census of Medical Examiners and Coroners. The last Census of Medical Examiners and Coroners was conducted in 2004 and... read more

The 2019 NIJ R&D Season of Just Science will focus on the research featured at the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Science Research and Development Symposium. Some of these interviews were recorded at the 2019 AAFS 71st Annual Scientific Meeting in Baltimore, Maryland. This conference, held by the American Academy of Forensic Sciences, is a multidisciplinary professional meeting that provides leadership and opportunities to advance science, foster research, and promote collaboration within the various forensic science disciplines. Some of the episode topics include research with alternative light sources and bruising, infant abuse, age estimations of bloodstains, image cloud platform use, raman microspectroscopy, and much more.

This season is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence. 

Episode 108 | Just Imaging Flow Cytometry

Just Imaging Flow Cytometry In episode ten of the 2019 R&D season, Just Science interviews Dr. Christopher Ehrhardt, professor at Virginia Commonwealth University, about a method for determining tissue type, age of evidence, and contributors from biological mixtures using... read more

Episode 107 | Just Flies and Their Artifacts

Just Flies and Their Artifacts In episode nine of the 2019 R&D season, Just Science interviews Dr. David Rivers, a professor at Loyola University, about the detection of insect stains and the development of a quantifiable confirmatory test for... read more

Episode 106 | Just Raman Spectroscopy and GSR

Just Raman Spectroscopy and GSR In episode eight of the 2019 R&D season, Just Science interviews Dr. Igor Lednev, professor of Chemistry at the University of Albany, about using Raman Microspectroscopy and advanced statistics for detecting and characterizing gunshot... read more

Episode 105 | Just Putrid Databases

Just Putrid Databases In episode seven of the 2019 R&D season, Just Science interviews Dr. Audris Mockus, a Professor in the Tickle College of Engineering at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, about an Image Cloud Platform for Use in... read more

Episode 104 | Just Headspace Solid Phase Microextraction

Just Headspace Solid Phase Microextraction In episode six of the 2019 R&D season, Just Science interviews Dr. Jorn Yu, professor at Sam Houston State University, about the chemical analysis of controlled substances using automated headspace solid phase microextraction. Developed... read more

Episode 103 | Just Screening Blood and Urine

Just Screening Blood and Urine In episode five of the 2019 R&D season, Just Science interviews Dr. Rebecca Wagner, a researcher at the Virginia Department of Forensic Sciences in Richmond, about a comparison of two validated LC/MS methods for the quantitative... read more

Episode 102 | Just Detecting Gunshot Residue

<<< back to all podcasts Just Detecting Gunshot Residue In episode four of the 2019 R&D season, Just Science interviews Dr. Suzanne Bell, Professor and Chair of the Department of Forensic and Investigative Science at West Virginia University, to discuss... read more

Episode 101 | Just RNA and Bloodstains

Just RNA and Bloodstains In episode three of the 2019 R&D season, Just Science interviews Dr. Robert Allen, professor and head of the Forensic Sciences Department at Oklahoma State University, about a method to estimate the age of bloodstains... read more

Episode 100 | Just Fundamental Mechanics and Infant Skull Fractures

Just Fundamental Mechanics and Infant Skull Fractures In episode two of the 2019 R&D season, Just Science interviews Dr. Brittany Coats, associate professor of mechanical engineering at the University of Utah, about her efforts to use fundamental mechanics to... read more

Episode 99 | Just Skin Deep

Just Skin Deep In episode one of the 2019 R&D season, Just Science interviews Dr. Katherine Scafide and Dr. Daniel Sheridan about their use of Alternative Light Sources for the detection and assessment of cutaneous bruising. Until the 1990s, it... read more

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, a campaign designed to raise awareness about sexual violence and provide methods to prevent it. In honor of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Just Science interviewed Pat Speck, a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and professor at the University of Alabama – Birmingham School of Nursing, about sexual assault testing and victim-centered care. Just Science also sat down with Dr. Kevin Strom and Dr. Patricia Melton of the SAKI Training and Technical Assistance project to discuss the SAKI TTA program, its impact, and the support SAKI TTA provides the community.

This season of Just Science is funded in part by RTI International’s Applied Justice Research Division and the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence [Award 2016-MU-BX-K110]. Please view the individual episode pages for more information about episode funding.

Episode Ninety-Eight| Just The Sexual Assault Kit Initiative Training and Technical Assistance

Just The Sexual Assault Kit Initiative Training and Technical Assistance The National Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI), funded by the Bureau of Justice Assistance, aims to create a coordinated community response that ensures justice and resolution to sexual assault... read more

Episode Ninety-Seven | Just the Evolution of Sexual Assault Evidence Collection

Just the Evolution of Sexual Assault Evidence Collection April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, a campaign designed to raise awareness about sexual violence and provide methods to prevent it. In honor of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Just Science interviewed... read more

The Identification season of Just Science will focus on many of the different aspects of identification in forensic investigations. A majority of these interviews were recorded at the 2018 International Forensic Educational Conference in San Antonio, Texas. This conference, held by the International Association for Identification, represents a diverse and knowledgeable membership that meets annually to educate and share techniques, methods, and research into the various forensic science disciplines. The conference features lectures, poster presentations, and workshops dedicated to sharing knowledge and enhancing the forensic sciences. This season will include episodes covering sexual assault kit processing, psychological survival in violent careers, latent print examination, forensic art, microanthropology, and more.

This episode of Just Science is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence.

Episode Ninety-Six | Just the Double Loop Podcast Crossover

Just the Double Loop Podcast Crossover In episode nine of the Identification season, Just Science sits down with Heidi Eldridge, from RTI international, along with Eric Ray and Glenn Langenburg, the co-hosts of the Double Loop Podcast, to discuss the nature of the respective... read more

Episode Ninety-Five | Just Forensic Technician Vicarious Trauma

Just Forensic Technician Vicarious Trauma In episode eight of the Identification season, Just Science interviews Selena McKay-Davis, lead senior forensic specialist at Riverside Police Department, about job-related stress for forensic technicians and sworn peace officers. As a forensic technician... read more

Episode Ninety-Four | Just Forensic Microanthropology

Just Forensic Microanthropology In episode seven of the Identification season, Just Science interviews Carlos Gutierrez, a lecturer at Chaminade University of Honolulu, about the new field of Forensic Microanthropology. After finding an unidentified bone, forensic anthropologists must first determine... read more

Episode Ninety-Three | Just Improvised Explosive Devices

Just Improvised Explosive Devices In episode six of the Identification season, Just Science interviews Hillary Daluz, an instructor for Tritech Forensics and author on latent print analysis. From soda cans and cigarette packs to animal carcasses and pressure cookers,... read more

Episode Ninety-Two | Just 19 Hours and 300 miles

Just 19 Hours and 300 miles In episode five of the Identification season, Just Science interviews Erin Sims, Lab Manager of the Forensic Identification Unit for the Lincoln, Nebraska Police Department, about a case involving methamphetamine use and a... read more

Episode Ninety-One | Just the Molalla Forest Serial Killer

Just the Molalla Forest Serial Killer In episode four of the Identification season, Just Science interviews Robert Thompson, Senior Forensic Science Research Manager at the National Institute of Standards and Technology, about his role in the investigation of the... read more

Episode Ninety | Just a Modified Direct to DNA Approach to Sexual Assault Kit Testing

Just a Modified Direct to DNA Approach to Sexual Assault Kit Testing In episode three of the Identification season, Just Science interviews forensic biologist Caitlin Rogers. Forensic scientists are always looking to improve the efficiency and accuracy of sexual... read more

Episode Eight-Nine | Just Drawing Knowledge from a Forensic Artist

Just Drawing Knowledge from a Forensic Artist In episode two of the Identification season, Just Science interviews Suzanne Birdwell, a forensic artist with the Texas Department of Public Safety and the current Chair of the IAI Forensic Art Science... read more

Episode Eight-Eight | Just the Sole of Impression Pattern Evidence

Just the Sole of Impression Pattern Evidence The Identification season of Just Science will focus on many of the different aspects of identification in forensic investigations. A majority of these interviews were recorded at the 2018 International Forensic Educational... read more

2018 Seasons & Special Release Episodes

Unchanged: The Forensic Advancement season of Just Science will focus on many areas that challenge forensic leadership within the community. A majority of these interviews were recorded at the 2018 American Society of Crime Lab Directors (ASCLD) Annual Symposium in Atlanta, Georgia. The ASCLD Symposium is an industry-leading conference designed for leaders and managers in the forensic laboratory space. The symposium boasts workshops and plenary talks designed around all aspects of forensic science, but particularly focuses on enhancing leadership and management in a forensic laboratory. This season will include episodes covering performance tools, ASCLD efforts in rapid DNA, return on investment for DNA databases, witness testimony, millennial personnel, laboratory public relations, and more.

This season of Just Science is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence. 

Episode Eight-Seven | Just Mass Casualty Events

Just Mass Casualty Events In episode eleven of the Forensic Advancement season, Just Science interviews Special Agent Richard Marx, the supervisory agent for the FBI’s Evidence Response Team Unit, to discuss what follows a mass casualty event. Since joining... read more

Episode Eighty-Six | Just Blind Proficiency Testing

Just Blind Proficiency Testing In episode ten of the Forensic Advancement season, Just Science interviews Dr. Peter Stout, CEO of the Houston Forensic Science Center, as he discusses the current state of the HFSC and his philosophy of giving... read more

Episode Eighty-Five | Just Transparency in Public Communications

Just Transparency in Public Communications In episode nine of the Forensic Advancement season, Just Science interviews Ramit Plushnick-Masti, Director of Communications for the Houston Forensic Science Center, concerning the role of transparency in the forensics community. Complete transparency is... read more

Episode Eighty-Four | Just a Paradigm Shift for Forensic Scientists

Just a Paradigm Shift for Forensic Scientists In episode eight of the Forensic Advancement season, Just Science interviews Ron Smith. Smith is a 45-year veteran of latent print analysis and the current president of Ron Smith and Associates, a... read more

Episode Eighty-Three | Just Throwing DARTs at the Opioid Crisis

Just Throwing DARTs at the Opioid Crisis In episode seven of the forensic advancement season, Just Science interviews Amber Burns, Chemistry Section Manager for the Maryland State Police Department, to discuss the role of technology in the fight against... read more

Episode Eighty-Two | Just Millennials

Just Millennials In episode six of the Forensic Advancement season, Just Science interviews Ben Swanholm, Evidence Screening Section Supervisor at the Phoenix Police Department to discuss millennials and their future role in the forensic sciences. Millennials are a polarizing and... read more

Episode Eighty | Just ASCLD Rapid DNA Committee

Just ASCLD Rapid DNA Committee In episode five of the Forensic Advancement season, Just Science interviews Katie Fetherston, Brian Hoey, and Jeremy Triplett, the Laboratory Supervisor for Kentucky State Police to discuss the ASCLD Rapid DNA committee efforts. In... read more

Episode Seventy-Nine | Just Psychological Resiliency

Just Psychological Resiliency In episode four of the Forensic Advancement season, Just Science interviews Dr. David Christiansen, a licensed psychologist in the State of Colorado, about psychological survival in a violent career. Dr. Christiansen discusses what trauma is and... read more

Episode Seventy-Eight | Just FORESIGHT on Sexual Assault Kits

<<< back to all podcasts Just FORESIGHT on Sexual Assault Kits In episode three of the forensic advancement season, Just Science interviews Dr. Paul Speaker from West Virginia University about the jurisdictional return on investment for DNA Databases. With... read more

Episode Seventy-Seven | Just Cognitive Bias Awareness

<<< back to all podcasts Just Cognitive Bias Awareness In episode two of the forensic advancement season, Just Science interviews Dr. Cecelia Crouse, formerly the Crime Laboratory Director of the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, about the 2009 National... read more

Episode Seventy-Six | Just the Soul of the Profession

Just the Soul of the Profession The Forensic Advancement season of Just Science will focus on many areas that challenge forensic leadership within the community. The majority of these interviews were recorded at the 2018 ASCLD Annual Symposium in Atlanta, Georgia. In episode one of the forensic... read more

The American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) Humanitarian and Human Rights Resource Center (HHRRC) seeks to promote humanitarian and human rights in the field of forensic sciences and the NIJ. The FTCoE will help to support key international agencies chosen by the HHRRC to improve the practice of forensic science and strengthen its impact on humanitarian and human rights issues through training and education and dissemination of best practices and guidelines. Some of the main focuses for the program are evidence preservation, training, research, and capacity building around the world. Research discussed in this Just So You Know episode includes looking at skeletal remains from the mass violence in Cambodia, develop the capacity of anthropology in Mexico, how nerve agents are incorporated into bones, and much more. Just Science interviews Dr. Douglas Ubelaker about the HHRRC’s efforts and his contributions to an in-brief about how the NIJ’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence aids their mission.

This episode of Just Science is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence.

Episode Eighty-One | Just So You Know: AAFS Humanitarian and Human Rights Resource Center

  Just So You Know: AAFS Humanitarian and Human Rights Resource Center The American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) Humanitarian and Human Rights Resource Center (HHRRC) seeks to promote humanitarian and human rights in the field of forensic sciences... read more

Just Science is releasing a special Medicolegal Death Investigation series to discuss topics such as vicarious trauma, forensic nurse coroners, different medicolegal death investigation systems, and planning for the aftermath of a mass shooting. Guests include John Fudenberg, Bobbi Jo O’Neal, and Kelly Keyes.

This season of Just Science is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence. 

Episode Seventy-Five | Just Planning For The Aftermath Of A Mass Shooting

Just Planning For The Aftermath Of A Mass Shooting In the fourth episode of our medicolegal death investigation special release season, Just Science interviews John Fudenberg, the Coroner for Clark County, where he discusses the tragic events of the 2017 concert shooting in Las... read more

Episode Seventy-Four | Just Forensic Nurse Coroners

Just Forensic Nurse Coroners In the third episode of our medicolegal death investigation special release season, Just Science interviews Bobbi Jo O’neal, the Chief Deputy Coroner of Charleston, South Carolina, who discusses the unique skills that forensic nurses can... read more

Episode Seventy-Three | Just Coroners Versus Medical Examiner Systems

Just Coroners Versus Medical Examiner Systems In the second episode of our medicolegal death investigation special release season, Just Science interviews John Fudenberg, the Coroner for Clark County, Nevada. Listen along as Just Science explores commonalities and differences between... read more

Episode Seventy-Two | Just Being Vocal about Vicarious Trauma

Just Being Vocal about Vicarious Trauma In the first episode of our medicolegal death investigation special release season, Just Science interviews Kelly Keyes, the supervising deputy coroner of Orange County, California to give an overview about the coroners and... read more

Just Science is releasing a special Just So You Know series in celebration of National Forensic Science Week. Get to know the leadership, scientific, and technical staff that help keep the center running smoothly year round. Guests include Dr. John Morgan, Dr. Jeri Ropero-Miller, Donia Slack, Nicole Jones, Heidi Eldridge, Dr. Megan Grabenauer, Sarah Norsworthy, Nichole Bynum, Katherine Moore, Erica Fornaro, Molly Dix, and Dr. Kelle Barrick.

This episode of Just Science is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence.

Episode Seventy-One | Just So You Know: Molly Dix

Molly Dix, Technology Innovation Manager In episode ten of the FTCoE special release season, Just Science interviews Molly Dix about the key role that innovation advisors play in transitioning technology into practice. This episode of Just Science is funded by the... read more

Episode Seventy | Just So You Know: Erica Fornaro

Erica Fornaro, Outreach Manager In episode nine of the FTCoE special release season, Just Science interviews Erica Fornaro where she discusses all of the ways the center is trying to reach forensic professionals. This episode of Just Science is... read more

Episode Sixty-Nine | Just So You Know: Dr. Kelle Barrick

Dr. Kelle Barrick, Social Impact Lead In episode eight of the FTCoE special release season, Just Science interviews Dr. Kelle Barrick about the social impact of forensic technologies. This episode of Just Science is funded by the National Institute... read more

Episode Sixty-Eight | Just So You Know: Sarah Norsworthy, Nichole Bynum, and Katherine Moore

Forensic Science Experts In episode seven of the FTCoE special release season, Just Science interviews Sarah Norsworthy, Nichole Bynum, and Katherine Moore. Listen along as we learn about their forensic backgrounds and the valuable knowledge they bring to the... read more

Episode Sixty-Seven | Just So You Know: Heidi Eldridge

Heidi Eldridge, Research Forensic Scientist In episode six of the FTCoE special release season, Just Science interviews Heidi Eldridge, who discusses her unusual background and her path to becoming a researcher at RTI and a PhD candidate at the University of... read more

Episode Sixty-Six | Just So You Know: Dr. Megan Grabenauer

Dr. Megan Grabenauer, Research Chemist In episode five of the FTCoE special release season, Just Science interviews Dr. Megan Grabenauer, where she discusses her chemistry research background and current NIJ grant. This episode of Just Science is funded by... read more

Episode Sixty-Two | Just So You Know: Dr. John Morgan

Dr. John Morgan, Project Director Listen to learn more about Dr. John Morgan’s past with the NIJ and how that aligns with the FTCoE mission by providing evidence-based resources about forensic technologies and emerging challenges. This episode of Just... read more

Episode Sixty-Five | Just So You Know: Donia Slack

Donia Slack, Associate Director In episode three of the FTCoE special release season, Just Science interviews Donia Slack, who shares her past research experience and how that contributes to the successful operation of the center. This episode of Just... read more

Episode Sixty-Three | Just So You Know: Dr. Jeri Ropero-Miller

  Dr. Jeri Ropero-Miller, Chief Scientist Dr. Ropero-Miller first discusses how her early interest in math and science led to a degree in chemistry that resulted in a job working within the research phases of the oil industry. This... read more

Episode Sixty-Four | Just So You Know: Nicole Jones

Nicole Jones, Addressing Challenges Manager In episode four of the FTCoE special release season, Just Science interviews Nicole Jones, about the different ways in which the she is helping address challenges in the community.  This episode of Just Science... read more

Just Science is releasing a season for the 2018 NIJ funded Research and Development. These guests were NIJ awardees that traveled to the annual AAFS Symposium this year in Seattle, Washington. Dive into the community’s efforts to forward science and create a stronger justice system through knowledge. Some of the episode topics include research with skin microbiomes, SNP genotypes, implementing portable mass spec, and CT image databases.

This episode of Just Science is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence.

Episode Sixty-One | Just Genetic Marker Linkages

Just Genetic Marker Linkages In the sixth episode of the 2018 R&D Season, Just Science speaks with Dr. Michael Edge of UC Davis about his research with record linkage of CODIS profiles with SNP genotypes. Can you tell if... read more

Episode Sixty | Just Portable Mass Spectrometer Possibilities

Just Portable Mass Spectrometer Possibilities In the fifth episode of the NIJ R&D Season, Just Science speaks with Dr. Jamie Wieland and Dr. Christopher Mulligan of Illinois State University about assessing the impact of implementing portable mass spectrometers for... read more

Episode Fifty Nine | Just a Whole-Body CT Image Database

Just a Whole-Body CT Image Database In episode four of the 2018 NIJ R&D Season, Just Science speaks with Dr. Shamsi Berry, from the University of Mississippi Medical Center, about her research with standardizing a large-scale, whole-body CT image database.   In 2010... read more

Episode Fifty Eight | Just Skin Microbiomes as Evidence

Just Skin Microbiomes as Evidence In the third episode of the 2018 NIJ R&D Season, Just Science speaks with Dr. David Carter, Director and Associate Professor of Forensic Sciences at Chaminade University of Honolulu, about his research, “Evaluating the... read more

Episode Fifty Seven| Just Microhaps Perhaps

Just Microhaps Perhaps In the second episode of our new R&D Season, Just Science host Dr. John Morgan speaks with human population geneticist Dr. Kenneth Kid, Professor Emeritus of Genetics and Senior Research Scientist with 44 years under his... read more

Episode Fifty Six | Just Speak into the Microbe-phone

Just Speak into the Microbe-phone In the first episode of our new R&D Season, Just Science host Dr. John Morgan speaks with Dr. Bruce Budowle, the Executive Director of the Institute of Applied Genetics and Professor at the University... read more

This Just So You Know episode was produced in remembrance of Dr. Antonio Cantu who passed away Friday, June 29, 2018. Listen along as Joseph Stephens, from the FBI Laboratory, discusses how Dr. Cantu shaped his forensic career and overall outlook on work and friendship.

“Dr. Cantu worked as a Forensic Scientist for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and served as Chief Scientist for the Forensic Service Division of U.S. Secret Service (USSS) until he retired in 2007.  Dr. Cantu’s expertise included the chemistry of documents and fingerprints.    With a relentless commitment to education, love of knowledge and passion for his craft, Antonio touched, inspired and empowered everyone who knew him.” Please click here to read Dr. Cantu’s obituary.

This season of Just Science is funded in part by RTI International’s Applied Justice Research Division.

Episode Fifty Five | Just So You Know: In Remembrance of Dr. Antonio Cantu

Just So You Know: In Remembrance of Dr. Antonio Cantu This Just So You Know episode was produced in remembrance of Dr. Antonio Cantu who passed away Friday, June 29, 2018. “Dr. Cantu worked as a Forensic Scientist for the... read more

How do career trajectories differ for Women in Forensics? It’s not just about showcasing academic rigor, producing great research, and chasing grants. This Just So You Know, we speak with Dr. Campo of FIU and touch on creating women leaders in science, academia, STEM, and forensics, and finding a balance between children and careers, while not sacrificing living other parts of life.

This episode of Just Science is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence.

Episode Forty Nine | Just So You Know: Women and Work in Science

  Women and Work in Science How do career trajectories differ for Women in Forensics? It’s not just about showcasing academic rigor, producing great research, and chasing grants. This Just So You Know, we speak with Dr. Campo of... read more

In this season, Drugs, topics will range from legalization of marijuana in relation to police officers, the opioid epidemic, Electronic Dance Music Festivals, how witnesses’ and victims’ memory of events can be affected by alcohol, current vaping research, drug courts, and much more.

This episode of Just Science is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence.

Episode Fifty Four | Just Opioid Financial Burden on Crime Labs

Just Opioid Financial Burden on Crime Labs In episode twelve of our Drugs Season, Just Science speaks to Dr. Paul Speaker, from West Virginia University, about the economic burden our justice system has from opioid deaths. They are estimating... read more

Episode Fifty Three | Just Classifying Emerging Compounds

Just Classifying Emerging Compounds In episode eleven of our Drugs Season, Just Science visits Atlanta for the 45th Annual ASCLD symposium to visit with Dr. Barry Logan, Sr. Vice President of Forensic Science Initiatives and Chief of Forensic Toxicology... read more

Episode Fifty Two | Just Fentanyl Lab Fads with ASCLD

Just Fentanyl Lab Fads with ASCLD In episode ten of our Drugs Season, Just Science visits Atlanta for the 45th Annual ASCLD symposium to talk with the Orange County, California Laboratory Director, and chair of the ASCLD Opioid Taskforce... read more

Episode Fifty One | Just Solving the Opioid Crisis

Just Solving the Opioid Crisis In episode Nine of our Drugs Season, Just Science discusses the Opioid Epidemic with RTI International’s Dr. Gary Zarkin and Dr. Jeri Ropero-Miller. Solving the United State’s Opioid Epidemic that’s riddled with unknowns and... read more

Episode Fifty | Just Chasing the E-Cig Dragon

Just Chasing the E-Cig Dragon In episode eight of our Drugs Season, Just Science discusses research in the area of e-cigarettes with Dr. Michelle Peace. Vaping, the act of inhaling vapor from e-liquid through a vaporizer, or also known... read more

Episode Forty Eight | Just Alcohol and Witness Recall

Just Alcohol and Witness Recall In episode seven of our Drugs Season, Just Science discusses with Dr. Nadja Schreiber Compo, an associate professor at Florida International University, her research on the effects of alcohol on witnesses’ and victims’ memory... read more

Episode Forty Seven | Just the State of Pathology

Just the State of Pathology In episode six of our Drugs Season, Just Science uses the 30-year career of Randy Hanzlick of the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office in Atlanta to explore the field of forensic pathology. Nerd out... read more

Episode Forty Six | Just Doobious Driving

Just Doobious Driving In episode five of our Drugs Season, Just Science interviews Jennifer Knudsen, Colorado’s Traffic Safety Resource Prosecutor, and Glenn Davis, the Highway Safety Manager for the Colorado Department of Transportation. Listen along as Colorado’s recreational marijuana legalization... read more

Episode Forty Five | Just Liver Die

Just Liver Die In episode four of our Drugs Season, Just Science interviews Dr. Carl Wolf, from the Medical College of Virginia Commonwealth University to discuss his NIJ funded research, titled “Liver Doesn’t DIE, or at least its Enzymes,... read more

Episode Forty Four | Just Electronic Dance Music Festivals

Just Electronic Dance Music Festivals In episode three of the Drugs Season, Just Science interviews Alex Krotulski, a research scientist, and Amanda Mohr, a forensic scientist 2, at the Center for Forensic Science Research and education. Both discuss their... read more

Episode Forty Three | Just Drug Courts

Just Drug Courts In episode two of the Drugs Season, Just Science interviews Preeti Menon, the Senior Associate Director at the Justice Programs Office, a center in the School of Public Affairs at America University. One of Ms. Menon’s... read more

Episode Forty Two | Just Field Identification Drug Officer

Just Field Identification Drug Officer With this episode we kick off our Drugs season. Topics will range from legalization of marijuana in relation to police officers, the opioid epidemic, Electronic Dance Music Festivals, how witnesses’ and victims’ memory of... read more

The forensic science community lost an influential and dedicated leader, Dr. Eric Buel. “Just Science” is releasing a special “Just So You Know” episode interviewing Dr. Max Houck and John Collins, two of Dr. Siegel’s closest colleagues. In this short episode we remember a kind hearted, dedicated educator of forensic scientists, whose reach was felt internationally. The community has lost someone who is considered a forefather for education in forensics, please join us as we celebrate a life that gave so much to his beloved community.

This season of Just Science is funded in part by RTI International’s Applied Justice Research Division.

Episode Forty One | Just So You Know: In Remembrance of Dr. Eric Buel

The forensic science community lost an influential and dedicated leader, Dr. Eric Buel. “Just Science” is releasing a special “Just So You Know” episode interviewing Dr. Max Houck and John Collins, two of Dr. Siegel’s closest colleagues. In this... read more

In this season we will cover content given at the NIJ Forensic Technology Center of Excellence’s Impression Pattern and Trace Evidence Symposium.  The symposium was held January 22nd -25th 2018 in Arlington, Virginia, it had over 200 onsite attendees and over 400 online attendees. This season will include episodes discussing nature’s patterns, fracture mechanics, juror’s interpretations of testimony, toolmarks, and footwear with each topic discussing real-world examples. If you missed the symposium and wish to watch the archives, please click here.

This episode of Just Science is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence.

Episode Forty | 2018 IPTES: Just Talking Testimony

Just Talking Testimony In this special episode of the IPTES season recorded live in Crystal City, Just Science covers the panel titled, “Statistics and Testimony from the Practitioner and Juror Point of View.” Moderators for the panel were Dr.... read more

Episode Thirty Nine | 2018 IPTES: Just Bayesian Brawl

Just Bayesian Brawl In episode nine of the IPTES season, Just Science is covering the Statistical Approaches to Forensic Interpretation panel, recorded live at IPTES. Moderators for the panel was your host, Dr. John Morgan, from RTI International and... read more

Episode Thirty Eight | 2018 IPTES: Just Handwriting Statistics

Just Handwriting Statistics In episode eight of the IPTES season, Just Science interviews Cami Fuglsby, from South Dakota State University, to discuss Sufficiency and Complexity Factors in Handwriting Examination. Did you know that increasing the size of the document... read more

Episode Thirty Seven | 2018 IPTES: Just Consecutively Manufactured Toolmarks

Just Consecutively Manufactured Toolmarks In episode seven of the IPTES season, Just Science interviews Robert Thompson, a Senior Forensic Science Research Manager at the National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST). Mr. Thompson discusses his research on consecutively manufactured... read more

Episode Thirty Six | 2018 IPTES: Footwear Size Does Matter

Just Footwear Size Does Matter In episode six of the IPTES season, Just Science interviews Chris Hamburg, from the Oregon State Police Forensic Services Division, and Jeff Jagmin from the WSP Crime Laboratory Division in Seattle. Our guests discuss... read more

Episode Thirty Five | 2018 IPTES: Just Geeking Out on Patterns

Just Geeking Out on Patterns In episode five of the IPTES season, Just Science interviews John Vanderkolk from the Indiana State Laboratory. In a previous episode, Vanderkolk used the term Nature’s patterns, now he will discuss the philosophy behind... read more

Episode Thirty Four | 2018 IPTES: Just Shoeprint Statistics

Just Shoeprint Statistics In episode four of the IPTES season, Just Science interviews Andrew Kimble, a student at Albany State University. Mr. Kimble explains his research in how incorporating statistical models in forensic shoeprint analysis can assist in identification.... read more

Episode Thirty Three | 2018 IPTES: Just A Juror’s Perception

Just A Juror’s Perception In episode three of the IPTES season, Just Science interviews Dr. Alicia Wilcox from Husson University and Heidi Eldridge from RTI International. Our guests discuss how visual aid and other tactics have been proven to... read more

Episode Thirty Two | 2018 IPTES: Just Fracture Matches

Just Fracture Matches In episode two of the 2018 IPTES season, Just Science interviews Dr. Ashraf Bastawros from Iowa State University. Dr. Bastawros discusses how fracture mechanics principles can be used with statistical learning tools to give quantitative results. Explore the mind of an engineer and hear how leveraging other disciplines can aid... read more

Episode Thirty One | 2018 IPTES: Just Nature’s Patterns

Just Nature’s Patterns Season three, episode one of Just Science kicks off with our host, Dr. John Morgan, interviewing John Vanderkolk from the Indiana State Crime Laboratory. Vanderkolk discusses his belief in the importance of challenging your teachers and... read more

2017 Seasons & Special Release Episodes

In this special release season on Leadership, you will hear interviews highlighting different areas where guests have excelled, along with some of their lessons learned. The season will highlight forensic professionals and teachers of leadership including Ben Swanholm, Jody Wolf, Martina Bison-Huckaby, and Jeremy Triplett. We will discuss their personal philosophies on leadership, how they came to be leaders in their own lives, and what their affiliations have added to the conversation. Stay tuned as Just Science helps to shed light on the complex issues of leadership.

This season of Just Science is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence. 

Episode Thirty | Just So You Know: FTCoE Leadership Series

Just So You Know: FTCoE Leadership Series In this Just So You Know episode Dr. John Morgan, the host of Just Science, gives a detailed explanation about the Forensic Technology Center of Excellence’s Leadership Series. He discusses the module topics,... read more

Episode Twenty Nine | Special Release Season: Just Guidance Leadership

Guidance Leadership In this special release season of Just Science, we discuss leadership with prominent names in the forensic community. The last episode of this series features Jeremy Triplett, the Laboratory Supervisor for the Kentucky State Police Forensic Laboratories.... read more

Episode Twenty Eight | Special Release Season: Just Motivational Leadership

Motivational Leadership Episode three of the special release season, Leadership, features Martina Bison-Huckaby, the Director of the Center for Executive Education at West Virginia University’s College of Business and Economics. Just science examines how understanding and relating with people... read more

Episode Twenty Seven | Special Release Season: Just Strategic Leadership

Strategic Leadership In episode two of the Leadership Special Release season, Just Science interviews Jody Wolf, the Assistant Crime Lab Administrator at the Phoenix Police Department Laboratory Services Bureau. Wolf tells us how forensic science found her at a pivotal... read more

Episode Twenty Six | Special Release Season: Just Servant Leadership

Servant Leadership In episode one of the Leadership Special Release season, Just Science interviews Ben Swanholm, the Forensic Science Section Supervisor at the Phoenix Police Department Laboratory Services Bureau. Swanholm discusses his personal leadership style, backed with resources that... read more

In this “Just So You Know” episode of Just Science, we discuss this year’s Rapid DNA forum with Chris Asplen, the Executive Director of the National Criminal Justice Association. The 3-day forum, hosted by the Forensic Technology Center of Excellence, was held in Alexandria, VA in August of 2017. This forum provided more than 130 attendees from the forensic DNA community an opportunity to be updated on commercially available Rapid DNA technologies, hear lessons learned from several early adopters spanning local law enforcement and federal agencies, and discuss moving forward as a community. As one of the many distinguished presenters from the forum, Chris discusses how Rapid DNA is moving forward slowly but surely saving jurisdictions time and money, and that getting the policy right is just as important as getting the technology right.

This episode of Just Science is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence.

Episode Twenty Five | Just So You Know: Rapid DNA Technology

In this “Just So You Know” episode of Just Science, we discuss this year’s Rapid DNA forum with Chris Asplen, the Executive Director of the National Criminal Justice Association. The 3-day forum, hosted by the Forensic Technology Center of... read more

The forensic science community lost an influential and dedicated leader, Dr. Jay Siegel. “Just Science” is releasing a special “Just So You Know” episode interviewing Dr. Max Houck and John Collins, two of Dr. Siegel’s closest colleagues. In this short episode, we remember a kind-hearted, dedicated educator of forensic scientists, whose reach was felt internationally. The community has lost someone who is considered a forefather for education in forensics, please join us as we celebrate a life that gave so much to his beloved community.

This season of Just Science is funded in part by RTI International’s Applied Justice Research Division

Episode Twenty | Just So You Know: In Remembrance of Dr. Jay Siegel

The forensic science community lost an influential and dedicated leader, Dr. Jay Siegel. “Just Science” is releasing a special “Just So You Know” episode interviewing Dr. Max Houck and John Collins, two of Dr. Siegel’s closest colleagues. In this... read more

In the second season, Case Studies, Just Science interviews the prosecutors, investigators, victims, and crime lab directors that were involved with high profile cases. This season will highlight cases that seemed unsolvable at the time, but with some new technologies and innovation, these criminals were brought to justice. Topics include Munchausen syndrome by proxy, Human Trafficking, Odontology, Atlanta Olympic Bombing, International cases, Louisiana Serial Killer, and many more

This season of Just Science is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence. 

Episode Twenty Four| Just Case Studies: Derrick Todd Lee – Baton Rouge Serial Killer

Derrick Todd Lee – Baton Rouge Serial Killer In Episode 9, Season 2, Just Science interviews Ray Wickenheiser, director of the New York State Police lab system and current ASCLD president. Ray takes us down to Cajun Country to the... read more

Episode Twenty Three| Just Case Studies: Two Murders, One Trace Fiber

Two Murders, One Trace Fiber In episode eight, Season two, Just Science interviews Dr. Jan De Kinder, from the National institute of Forensic science and criminology in the Belgium Department of Justice. Dr. De Kinder explores how trace evidence was... read more

Episode Twenty Two | Just Case Studies: From Teeth to Trafficking

From Teeth to Trafficking In Episode Seven, Season two, Just Science interviews Dr. John Kenney, who is also a member of the American Academy of Forensic Science, during the Cradle to Cane Conference held in Charleston South Carolina. Dr.... read more

Episode Twenty One | Just Case Studies: A Gruesome Murder in Mesa

A Gruesome Murder in Mesa In episode six, season two, Just Science interviews Kimberly Meza from Mesa police Department during the annual ASCLD symposium held in Dallas, Texas. Kimberly describes how a blood spatter analyst takes in a scene,... read more

Episode Nineteen | Just Case Studies: Atlanta Olympic Bombing

Atlanta Olympic Bombing Season two, episode five of Just Science interviews John Collins during the annual ASCLD symposium in Dallas, Texas. This episode takes us back to a time when the United States was hosting the summer Olympics, in... read more

Episode Eighteen | Just Case Studies: A Mother’s Tale – Part 2

A Mother’s Tale Part 2 Season two, episode four of Just Science involves a case through the eyes of an investigator.  Mike Weber, an investigator with the Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office in the Crimes Against Children Unit, walks... read more

Episode Seventeen | Just Case Studies: A Mother’s Tale – Part 1

A Mother’s Tale Part 1 Season two, episode three of Just Science involves a case through the eyes of an investigator.  Mike Weber, an investigator with the Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office in the Crimes Against Children Unit, walks... read more

Episode Sixteen | Just Case Studies: A Child’s Injustice

A Child’s Injustice Season two, episode two of the Just Science podcast involves a case from Canada that Andrew Greenfield, Deputy Director of the Centre of Forensic Sciences, worked on when he was a young scientist. The gruesome murder... read more

Episode Fifteen | Just Case Studies: Mel Hall – A Sexual Predator

Mel Hall – A Sexual Predator For the second season of Just Science we will be delving into case studies. These case interviews include victim accounts, lawyers, investigators, and crime lab directors.  They will tell you about cases they... read more

Just Science released a special season for NIJ funded Research and Development. Dive into the community’s efforts to forward science and create a stronger justice system through knowledge. Episode topics include research with one-pot meth, bath salts, gunshot acoustics, and postmortem interval estimation.

This season of Just Science is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence.

Episode Fourteen | Just Gunshot Acoustics Research

Just Gunshot Acoustics Research In this special release episode of the 2017 NIJ R&D Symposium, Just Science interviews Dr. Rob Maher. Below is the abstract submitted where Dr. Rob Maher explains his research: Gunshot acoustics–interpretation of the characteristic sounds... read more

Episode Thirteen | Just Postmortem Interval Estimation Research

Just Postmortem Interval Estimation Research In this special release episode of the 2017 NIJ R&D Symposium, Just Science interviews Dr. Jeffrey Wells and Dr. Lynn LaMotte. This is the abstract submitted where Dr. LaMotte and Dr. Wells explain their... read more

Episode Twelve | Just Bath Salts 

Just Bath Salts  In this special release episode of the 2017 NIJ R&D Symposium, Just Science interviews Lindsay Glicksberg, a student from Sam Houston State University. This is an excerpt from the abstract submitted by the guest, Lindsay Glicksberg explaining... read more

Episode Eleven | Just One Pot Methamphetamine

Just One Pot Methamphetamine In this special release episode of the 2017 NIJ R&D Symposium, Just Science interviews Dr. Jarrad Wagner from Oklahoma State University. This is the abstract submitted by the guest where he explains the research him... read more

The first season of Just Science titled Numbers will give listeners content focusing on issues that forensic scientists are faced with, such as error data or proof of data. We will explore new technologies and systems that provide more efficient ways of delivering quantitative results, as well as the human factors that go into producing solid data.

This season of Just Science is funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence.

Episode Ten | Just Hairy Isotopes

Just Hairy Isotopes  In episode ten of Just Science, funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence [Award 2016-MU-BX-K110], we spoke with Dr. Gwyneth Gordon,  from Arizona State University.  Dr. Gordon and her team have developed methods to use the isotopic... read more

Episode Nine | Just Blood Spatter

Just Blood Spatter In episode nine of Just Science, funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence [Award 2016-MU-BX-K110], we spoke with Dr. Marc Smith,  from the Georgia Institute of Technology.  Dr. Smith’s NIJ funded research in blood spatter has connected... read more

Episode Eight | Just the Facts About Campus Sexual Assault

Just the Facts About Campus Sexual Assault In episode eight of Just Science, funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence [Award 2016-MU-BX-K110], we spoke with Dr. Christopher Krebs,  a Senior Research Social Scientist at RTI International.  Dr. Krebs’ research... read more

Episode Seven | Just Dry Bones

Just Dry Bones In the seventh episode of Just Science, funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence [Award 2016-MU-BX-K110], guest speakers Dr. Melissa Connor, Dr. Eriek Hansen, and Christiane Baigent discuss their NIJ funded research. A study was launched... read more

Episode Six | Just Budgets

Just Budgets In the sixth episode of Just Science, funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence [Award 2016-MU-BX-K110], guest speaker Dr. Paul Speaker discusses the FORESIGHT program. Dr. Speaker,  an Associate Professor at West Virginia University, will describe how The FORESIGHT program... read more

Episode Five | Just DNA Mixture Interpretation

Just DNA Mixture Interpretation  In the fifth episode of Just Science, funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence [Award 2016-MU-BX-K110], guest speaker Dr. Catherine Grgicak discusses DNA Mixture interpretation, currently a hot topic in forensic science. Dr. Grgicak and her... read more

Episode Four | Just Subjective Probability

Just Subjective Probability  For episode four of Just Science, funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence [Award 2016-MU-BX-K110], we will be diving into the world of statistics and how it applies forensic case work with Dr. Christophe... read more

Episode Three | Just 3D Optical Topography

Just 3D OPTICAL TOPOGRAPHY Episode Three of Just Science, funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence [Award 2016-MU-BX-K110], features Dr. Ryan Lilien, from Cadre Forensics and Todd Weller, from the Oakland Police Department talking about their groundbreaking... read more

Episode Two | Just Human Factors

Just Human Factors In episode two, funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence [Award 2016-MU-BX-K110], Dr. Tom Busey explores the importance of human factors as it relates to fingerprint analysis and interpretation. He, along with RTI International resident fingerprint expert, co-host Heidi... read more

Episode One: Just Lab Management

Just Lab Management The first episode of Just Science, funded by the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence [Award 2016-MU-BX-K110], will feature guest speaker Barry Fisher. It will dive into Barry’s legacy, which goes back to the 1960s, and how he used leadership in the crime... read more