From Classroom to Crime Scene: Forensic Biology in Action
Student Guest Blog by Isabella Piwowar

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.