From Classroom to Crime Scene: Forensic Biology in Action

Hello! I am Isabella Piwowar, a senior studying Forensic Biology at Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott, Arizona.

Discovering a Passion for Forensic Science

Forensic science has been an interest of mine since I was a little girl. I grew up watching TV shows like “NCIS” and “Criminal Minds,” and while these are built on fiction, I was fascinated with the science behind it all. This led me to research schools where I could apply this interest to a degree and ultimately a career.

Hands-On Learning at the Chandler Police Department

This past summer, I had the opportunity to intern with the Forensic Services Section at the Chandler Police Department. From May to August, I worked alongside forensic scientists and crime scene technicians, to see how an accredited laboratory functions.

I was assigned two projects during my internship. My first project was to validate a Crime Lite AUTO, a compact imaging instrument for latent print use, as crime scene technicians have been using them in the field. Second, I helped validate the use of Lumicyano, a chemical used to develop latent prints. This involved comparing Lumicyano to the lab's current procedure for processing prints, which includes super glue fuming and dye staining, most often MBD2.

When I was not working on these projects, I shadowed the crime scene technicians (CSTs) and forensic scientists during their case work, filed case reports and read educational materials. There were a variety of disciplines I got to shadow like Controlled Substances, Blood & Alcohol Analysis and Latent Prints. It was nice to see that the instruments used in accredited labs are some of the same one's students use at Embry‑Riddle, like the GC-MS.

I was most excited to shadow the CSTs as this career is one I would like to pursue. One ride-along I attended was to a decomposing body in a hoarder's house. While this was not a pleasant sight or smell, I am grateful I was exposed to it as this is a common scene CSTs respond to.

Applying Classroom Lessons to the Field

The coursework at Embry‑Riddle allowed me to understand the environment and terminology used at the FSS lab. Courses like Investigative Methodology & Forensic Science, Instrumental Analysis & Trace Evidence, Anatomy & Physiology and general Biology and Chemistry aided in this understanding. They taught me how to behave in a laboratory environment and what to expect at a crime lab and scene.

The Forensic Services Section at the Chandler Police Department provided me with a great amount of insight into the field. The scientists and technicians encouraged my experience and shared knowledge that will help me in the future.

Preparing for a Career in Forensics

After graduating, I hope to gain a position as a crime scene technician, because working in the field excites me. But, at the end of the day, I want to gain experience in forensics. I will be happy to obtain a job in the field either as a crime scene technician or a forensic scientist.