Student Research
.Forensic science students draw on the department’s extensive library and laboratory resources to pursue independent research on a topic of their choice, under the guidance of one or more faculty committee members. This process allows students to apply the scientific and analytical skills acquired throughout the program to real-world forensic challenges, often resulting in a peer-reviewed publication.
Many students have the opportunity to present their findings at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS)—the premier professional conference in the field. Presenting at AAFS provides students with invaluable experience communicating their research to leading scientists, practitioners, and policymakers, while also allowing them to network directly with GW alumni working in the field and potential employers from local, state, and federal laboratories. The event serves as an important career-building platform where students can showcase their expertise and professionalism to the broader forensic community.
In 2025, GW students achieved a remarkable milestone, setting a departmental record: fourteen MFS students were accepted to present their research at the AAFS annual meeting, marking the largest group of presenters in the program’s history. In addition, student research continues to be recognized through publication in leading forensic science journals, reflecting the academic rigor and innovation fostered within the program.
"Forensic science technology changes so rapidly that students must always be learners. I can teach them the technology they will use on their first case. But I have no idea what technology they will use on their last case before they retire. It probably hasn’t been invented yet."
Daniele Podini
Associate Professor of Forensic Sciences
2025 American Academy of Forensic Sciences, Baltimore, MD
Forensic Molecular Biology shine at the annual AAFS conference with outstanding research presentation
Our Forensic Chemistry students shone at the annual AAFS conference with their impressive research presentations.
GWU Research Days
Students work with faculty to craft research projects and present them at GW Research Days.
Recent examples include:
- Evaluating LRMix Studio for Deconvolution of Mixtures Using Microhaplotypes
- Evaluation of a Novel MPS 74-Microhaplotype Panel for Biogeographic Ancestry Prediction
- Separation and Identification of Fentanyl and Fentanyl Analogs by Field Portable Nano-Liquid Chromatography-Electron Ionization-Mass Spectrometry (nLC-EI-MS)
- Discrimination of Polyethylene-Based Trash Bags using X-Ray Fluorescence
- A Statistical and Allele Frequency Evaluation on the Methods of Kinship Calculations
- Evaluating the Use of DNA Analysis for Family Reunification: A Global Comparison
- Cost-Benefit Analysis of Kinship Testing Involving Full Siblings and Half Siblings