Authors selected for oral presentations are kindly requested to note the following:
Presentation requirements:
Technical instructions:
All posters will be presented in physical format onsite.
Poster specifications:
Authors are expected to use the appropriate template when preparing their posters.
Further details regarding poster display, mounting, and removal are provided below:
Poster sessions are scheduled as follows:
Mounting and removal times:
Posters not removed within the indicated timeframes will be removed on behalf of the authors.
Poster presenters are expected to be present at their allocated session to present and discuss their work. We strongly recommend mounting posters as early as possible within the designated timeframe to maximise visibility.
(Poster presenters allocated to ISFRI poster sessions will receive additional guidelines.)
Materials for mounting and removal of posters will be provided onsite.
Authors may either print their poster in advance and bring it to the Meeting or arrange printing locally. We recommend planning this in advance to ensure timely preparation.
For your convenience, a list of local printing services is provided below. Authors are advised to contact them in advance and ensure adequate time for production and collection.
Additional Guidelines for ISFRI Poster Sessions
(Posters allocated to ISFRI sessions follow the general guidelines above, with the following specific arrangements:)
Address: g.k. Lozenets, Blvd “James Bourchier” 51, 1407 Sofia
Emails: store.sofia2@office1.bg; viktoria.petrova@office1.bg
Note: Please send the file to both email addresses provided.
Address: Sofia Center, Hristo Botev Blvd 8, 1463 Sofia
Emails: print@magacopy.com; plot@magacopy.com
Address: g.k. Lozenets, bul. “Hristo Smirnenski” 1, 1164 Sofia
Email: print@maniaprint.bg
Phone: +359 888202267
Note: Please send the file to the email address provided and indicate the branch address as there are multiple locations and the email address is valid for all branches.
Address: Sofia Center, ul. “Sveti Kliment Ohridski” 12, 1504 Sofia
Email: print_grand@abv.bg
Kindly note that printing and storage of posters will not be managed by IAFS or the Organising Committee. Participants are therefore encouraged to make the necessary arrangements and ensure proper handling of their posters.
Important Notice
Please note that photography, video recording, and any form of content capture during presentations are strictly prohibited, in order to protect copyright and intellectual property. Failure to comply with this policy may result in removal from the Meeting.
Dr. Yudy holds certification as forensic and medicolegal expert from Indonesia, currently working in Cipto Mangunkusumo National Hospital and some private hospitals as well. He is active in several domestic and international organizations, such as Indo-Pacific Association of Law, Medicine and Sciences (INPALMS), Asian Forensic Sciences Network (AFSN), and Indonesian Association of Forensic Medicine. He hopes to serve larger community profesionally.
Structured analysis of human movement behavior – Focus Forensic Gait Analysis
Chair/ Co – chair:
ТBA
Instructors/ Presenters:
Sandra Adiarte, PhD Candidate, Bond University, AUS
Program Description:
In this 1/2 day workshop, the participants will get an introduction to the application of structured analysis of movement behavior of video material. The focus will be on re-evaluating the value and use of Forensic Gait Analysis in the context of investigation and enforcing the law.
This workshop provides participants with a structured and practice-oriented introduction to the forensic analysis of video material in criminal investigations. It equips them with a systematic framework for examining recorded footage, enabling them to move beyond intuitive observations toward objective, transparent, and methodologically sound assessments. Participants gain foundational knowledge in the structured analysis of movement behavior and learn how observable features can be identified, described, and evaluated within a forensic context.
A central component of the training is understanding the conditions under which forensic analyses can be meaningfully conducted. The interactive format will give participants insights into why this topic is particularly relevant today and how a more structured approach to the analysis of video can support investigations, evidence processing, and law enforcement.
The workshop also introduces the principles of Forensic Gait Analysis, outlining its practical applications, evidential value, and inherent challenges. Participants gain realistic insight into what gait analysis can and cannot contribute to an investigation, promoting responsible and scientifically grounded use of the method.
Finally, particular emphasis is placed on the critical first assessment of video material. Participants learn how early evaluative decisions influence investigative strategies and video-data handling. By strengthening these competencies, the course enhances participants’ ability to contribute effectively and reliably to investigative processes and casework.
Programme Outline:
Block I (50min) – Introduction – Relevance, Aims and Scope
10min Break
Block II (50min) – Structured video analysis of movement behavior in application
10min Break
Block III Case Study: Forensic Gait Analysis, chances, challenges, and its value for investigative and forensic practitioners
10min Break
Block IV (50min) Summary, discussion, and outlook
Learning Objectives:
Practical and Educational Value:
Participants will learn about the importance of systematically examining video material related to criminal investigations. Instead of relying on intuition, they will learn a structured approach that increases objectivity, consistency, and evidential reliability. An understanding of how human movement can be analyzed in a structured way can equip them to recognize relevant elements and features in video footage and understand their potential forensic significance. This way of conducting analyses can help to prevent over-interpretation, reduce investigative errors, and strengthen professional decision-making.
Participant Materials:
Short digital and/or printed materials with practical value
Certificate of Completion:
Yes
Participant Prerequisites:
Target Audience:
All Disciplines
Knowledge Level:
Intermediate
Price:
50 €
Examination of pore and edge details in friction skin impressions workshop
Chair/ Co – chair:
John R. Vanderkolk, Unique Forensics LLC, USA
Instructors/ Presenters:
John R. Vanderkolk, Unique Forensics LLC, USA
Program Description:
Many latent print examiners are in the habit of underutilizing friction ridge pore or edge (third level) details because many inked or live-scanned friction skin standards do not depict high quality friction ridge details. Therefore, small area high quality latent prints are often not examined because the standards for comparison are insufficient.
Workshop participants will conduct examinations among known source prints while utilizing high quality friction skin recordings. Participants will be provided enlarged images, highlighters, and pens to document corresponding pore and edge details.
Workshop participants will develop understanding and confidence in using pore and edge details after documenting them during this workshop. Many more small area high quality latent prints can be examined in case work to generate meaningful results when high quality ink, powder, or live-scan standard prints had been recorded and are available for comparison purposes.
Time-Based Outline:
After an approximate 30-minute introductory lecture, the participants will examine enlarged (approximately 8” x 10”) “latent print” and “standard print” images to reach a conclusion during the remaining workshop time. Examination conclusions will be reviewed throughout the workshop.
Learning Objectives:
Practical and Educational Value:
By understanding friction skin structure and shapes, a latent print examiner can reliably utilize the totality of the details in friction skin impressions. Experience with documenting pore and ridge edge details in training and casework will provide a better foundation for all friction skin impression examinations and conclusions.
Participant Materials:
Printed exercises and answer sheets will be provided. At the conclusion of the workshop, participants will be provided an answer key. Participants will keep their work products.
Knowledge Level:
Intermediate
Price:
50 €
Humans in the Loop: Considerations for AI Adoption in Forensic Science
Chair/ Co – chair:
Melissa Taylor; Director (Acting), Office of Forensic Science within the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST); United States
Instructors/ Presenters:
Dana Delger, JD; Consultant to the Forensic Science Standards Program at NIST; Sweden
Dr. Niki Osborne; The New Zealand Institute for Public Health and Forensic (PHF) Science; New Zealand
Heather Waltke; NIST Associate; Abu Dhabi
Program Description:
Artificial intelligence (AI) offers both promise and peril to the practice of forensic science. Practitioners, laboratory managers, lawyers, judges, and juries alike are grappling with whether and how to implement AI responsibly for forensic science use cases. Critical to these considerations is understanding how humans interact with AI systems and outputs. This workshop will examine this interaction from a variety of perspectives. It will draw on recommendations from the 2024 National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) report Forensic DNA Interpretation and Human Factors: Improving the Practice Through a Systems Approach, and NIST process maps. Finally, the workshop will examine relevant legal lessons from the American experience with AI and other emerging technologies.
The teaching approach will be primarily lecture-based with interactive activities to help participants benefit from shared experiences. The applied focus is on AI adoption in forensic science.
Program Outline
Learning Objectives:
Practical and Educational Value:
Participants will leave this workshop with a better understanding of human factors in forensic science and how those factors should be taken into account in the adoption of AI-enabled systems. They will also gain an understanding of how to apply existing knowledge and resources to the development of new technology. Finally, participants will learn about some of the considerations the law may bring to bear on how AI technologies are developed and deployed, and subsequently admitted in courts.
Relevant process maps, legal cases, and human factors materials will be shared digitally with participants.
Target Audience:
Forensic practitioners in all disciplines, laboratory managers, researchers, software developers, and lawyers.
Knowledge Level:
Basic. This workshop is suitable for those considering how to responsibly implement AI into forensic science workflows.
Price:
50 €
Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Forensic Odontology (But Were Afraid to Ask)
Chair/ Co – chair:
Dr Gwenola Drogou Saout, odontologist, judicial expert, President of the French Association of Forensic Odontology (AFIO), France
Dr Geromine Fournier , Phd, Department of Оdontology University of Toulouse, judicial expert, Member of the French Association of Forensic Odontology (AFIO), France
Instructors/ Presenters:
Dr Gwenola Drogou Saout, odontologist, judicial expert, President of the French Association of Forensic Odontology (AFIO), France
Dr Geromine Fournier, Phd, Department of Odontology, University of Toulouse, judicial expert, Member of the French Association of Forensic Odontology (AFIO), France
Dr Lise Malfroy Camine, Phd, odontologist, judicial expert, member of the French Association of Forensic Odontology (AFIO), France
Dr Alienor Trayssac, odontologist, Department of Оdontology, University of Toulouse, France
Program Description:
This workshop provides a comprehensive overview of forensic odontology, covering individual identification, disaster victim identification (DVI), age estimation in living and deceased individuals, and bite mark analysis. It targets dentists, physicians, radiologists, magistrates, forensic experts, and law enforcement professionals. The scope includes Interpol-recognized protocols, as well as DNA and fingerprinting, with a particular focus on forensic imaging (panoramic radiographs, CT scans). The teaching approach combines lectures, hands-on exercises, and case discussions, with an applied focus on practical skills such as odontogram interpretation, AM/PM record comparison, radiological age scoring (Demirjian/Cameriere methods), and DVI workflows for real-world forensic investigations.
Programme Outline:
2h: Individual Identification & DVI (principles, Interpol protocols, AM/PM exercises).
1h30: Age Estimation (methods across ages, hands-on scoring on radiographs/CT).
30min : Bite Mark Analysis (indications, controversies, examples).
30min : Quiz, Summary & Take-Home Sheet (interactive review, Q&A).
Learning Objectives:
Practical and Educational Value:
Participants will gain hands-on skills for forensic practice, including DVI workflows, radiological interpretation, and checklists for age/bite mark cases, enhancing their ability to contribute to multidisciplinary investigations. This directly applies to real-world scenarios like mass disasters or unidentified bodies, with take-home tools for ongoing professional use.
Participant materials:
Digital checklist for DVI workflows, reference sheet summarizing age estimation methods (Demirjian/Cameriere) and protocols, printed odontograms for hands-on exercises.
Certificate of completion
Yes
Participants prerequisites:
Target Audience:
Dentists, physicians, radiologists, magistrates, forensic experts, and law enforcement professionals
Knowledge Level:
Basic
Price:
50 €
Mass Spectrometry 101: Tips and Tricks for Mass Spectral Interpretation and Unknown Compound Elucidation
Chair/ Co – chair:
Edward Sisco, National Institute of Standards and Technology, United States of America
Sarah Shuda, National Institute of Standards and Technology, United States of America
Instructors/ Presenters:
Edward Sisco, National Institute of Standards and Technology, United States of America
Sarah Shuda, National Institute of Standards and Technology, United States of America
Program Description:
Mass spectrometry (MS), especially when coupled to a chromatographic technique like gas chromatography (GC, GC-MS), is one of the most widely used analytical tools for forensic chemistry disciplines. From identification of controlled substances in a seized drug sample to the determination of an ignitable liquid in debris from a suspected arson, mass spectral data underpins many conclusions. Interpretation of mass spectral data can range from straightforward to highly complex, depending on available spectral libraries, knowledge of fragmentation patterns, and type of analysis conducted.
In this workshop, participants will be provided with resources, tips, and tricks to better interpret mass spectra. After a brief refresher of the fundamentals, participants will be led through a series of exercises and examples on mass spectral interpretation, beginning with simple identifications of known compounds through to identification of suspected unknowns. During this process, participants will be introduced to freely-available spectral libraries, mass spectral search software, and spectral deconvolution tools that can assist in interpretation efforts.
The workshop will also cover how to work with different types of mass spectral data including gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS), liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS), and ambient ionization mass spectrometry (AI-MS). Examples using low-resolution and high-resolution data will also be provided. In addition to working through provided examples, participants are encouraged to bring examples with them that they would like to work through with the group.
This workshop is intended for those with a beginner to intermediate background in mass spectrometry or those interested in learning more about mass spectral techniques outside of their area of expertise. Examples presented in this workshop will focus mainly on illicit drugs and ignitable liquids. This workshop will not cover inorganic or elemental mass spectrometry and will not explicitly discuss quantitative analysis.
Programme Outline:
Structured overview of major content blocks and breaks
30 min – Introductions & Fundamentals of a Mass Spectrum
45 min – Interpretating & Searching Mass Spectra with NIST MS Search
Break (15 min)
30 min – Deconvoluting Chromatographic Data with AMDIS
45 min – Hands-on Practice From Routine to Complex
Break (15 min)
30 min – Tools for Interpretation of High-Resolution MS Data
Participant Prerequisites:
Learning Objectives:
Practical and Educational Value:
Interpretation of mass spectral data is a fundamental part of most forensic chemist’s duties. This workshop will provide both foundational and practical knowledge, using relevant examples, on how to navigate interpretation of difficult spectra with freely available libraries and software.
Participant Materials:
Participants will be provided with digital copies of the presentation material in addition to freely available software and exemplar data.
Participant Prerequisites:
Laptop, software installation, prior knowledge, accounts: Prior to the workshop, participants will be provided with links to freely downloadable software, mass spectral databases, and exemplar datafiles to use during the hands-on component of the workshop.
Target Audience:
Forensic chemistry, specifically seized drug analysis and fire debris analysis.
Knowledge Level:
Basic / Intermediate
Price:
50 €
Comprehensive Implementation of ISO 21043 Parts 1–5 in Forensic Disciplines: Enhancing Interpretation, Reporting, and Reliability
Chair/ Co – chair:
Ashraf Mozayani, PharmD., Ph.D., F-ABFT (Texas Southern University, USA)
Sheila Willis, PhD (Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, Scotland)
Instructors/ Presenters:
Ersi Kalfoglou, PhD., Department of Legal Medicine, Ankara Medipol University, Ankara, Turkey.
Dina Shokry, MD, Department – Modern Academy of Technology and Information, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt.
Linton A. Mohammed, Ph.D., D-ABFDE, Forensic Science Consultants, Inc., Poway, California, USA.
May Weza, M.S., Central Administration for Research on Forgery and Counterfeiting, Digital Crime Investigation, Forensic Medicine Authority, Cairo, Egypt.
Aybike Dip, Ph.D., Consultant, International Forensic Science Consultations, Adana, Turkey
Program Description:
This half-day workshop provides a comprehensive and practical overview of ISO 21043 Parts 1–5 and their implementation across forensic disciplines. The session integrates quality assurance principles, ethical safeguards, and technological considerations within a human rights framework aligned with the conference theme “Human Rights and Technology” and the motto “Working Together.”
Participants will explore the full forensic workflow – from evidence recognition and collection to interpretation and reporting – emphasizing the critical role of Parts 4 and 5 in preventing miscarriages of justice. The workshop uses case-based learning, multidisciplinary perspectives, and applied examples from toxicology, DNA analysis, digital forensics, drug chemistry, forensic pathology, and document examination.
The teaching approach combines short lectures, case discussions, panel interaction, and structured Q&A to ensure both conceptual clarity and practical applicability.
Programme Outline:
Opening & Welcome (15 minutes)
Workshop Agenda (4 Hours)
Welcome & Introduction (15 minutes)
Session 1: ISO 21043 Parts 1–3 – Creating a Reliable and Ethical Process
(1 hour 30 minutes)
Break (15 minutes)
Session 2: ISO 21043 Parts 4–5 – Interpretation and Reporting
(1 hour 45 minutes)
Closing Panel & Q&A (30 minutes)
Learning Objectives:
Practical and Educational Value:
Although ISO 21043 is still in the early stages of implementation globally, this workshop offers a timely and forward-looking opportunity to engage with its principles in a constructive and practical way. Participants will be encouraged to actively explore how the standard can strengthen and enhance their own forensic practices.
Drawing on emerging experiences and professional insights, the session will foster meaningful discussion about how ISO 21043 can be thoughtfully integrated into interpretation and reporting activities. Participants will:
The workshop is designed to be collaborative, forward-thinking, and empowering – equipping participants with the confidence and insight to begin integrating ISO 21043 principles in ways that are meaningful, achievable, and impactful within their own professional contexts.
Participant Materials
Certificate of Completion
Yes
Participant Prerequisites
Basic familiarity with forensic laboratory processes
Target Audience:
All forensic disciplines (toxicology, DNA, digital forensics, forensic pathology, drug analysis, forensic document examination, laboratory management, quality assurance professionals, legal medicine practitioners, and forensic educators).
Knowledge Level:
Intermediate (Foundational knowledge of forensic laboratory practices recommended)
Price:
50 €
From Scene to Court: Advanced 3D Crime Scene Documentation, Analysis and Reporting using Laser Scanning, Photogrammetry and Videogrammetry
Chair/ Co – chair:
Christian Schäfers, FARO INSIGHT (AMETEK), Germany
Instructors/ Presenters:
Christian Schäfers, FARO INSIGHT (AMETEK), Germany
Vijay Sandilya, FARO INSIGHT (AMETEK), UAE
Program Description:
This workshop provides a comprehensive overview of modern 3D crime scene documentation and analysis workflows, integrating terrestrial laser scanning, mobile mapping (SLAM), photogrammetry, and Videogrammetry.
Participants will be guided through the full forensic workflow, from digital scene capture to analysis and courtroom-ready reporting. The session will combine methodological explanation with real-case examples, demonstrating how digital technologies support forensic investigations, improve accuracy, and enhance communication in court.
Program Outline:
Learning Objectives:
Participants will be able to:
Practical and Educational Value:
The workshop provides direct applicability to real forensic casework and demonstrates validated workflows used by forensic units worldwide. Participants will gain actionable knowledge to improve documentation quality, efficiency, and evidential presentation.
Participant Materials:
Digital handouts and example outputs (reports, visualizations)
Certificate of Completion:
Yes
Participant Prerequisites:
Basic forensic knowledge beneficial
Target Audience:
Crime scene investigators, forensic analysts, collision reconstruction experts, law enforcement and judicial professionals
Knowledge Level:
Intermediate
Price:
Free of charge
Understanding IFSA and its role in enhancing forensic services
B. Workshop Instructors:
Chair: Prof Jose A Lorente, University of Granada, School of Medicine, 18016 Granada, Spain, for the Academia Iberoamericana de Criminalística y Estudios Forense
Instructors:
C. Audience & Level
1. Target Audience: All disciplines (forensic laboratory staff, quality managers, laboratory directors, legal professionals involved in forensic processes, and policymakers responsible for oversight of forensic science services)
2. Knowledge Level: Basic to intermediate
D. Educational Content
3. Program Description:
This half-day workshop introduces the history, mission, and goals of IFSA. Designed for professionals across all forensic disciplines, knowledge levels, and management roles, the session offers an overview of IFSA’s initiatives, introduces the Minimum Requirements Documents (MRDs), and highlights strategies for advancing forensic science research. Participants will have the opportunity to network, share insights, and engage in discussion on the current challenges and emerging issues in forensic services worldwide.
4. Learning Objectives:
5. Practical and Educational Value:
E. Program Outline
6. Time-Based Outline
| Part | Topic | Content | Duration (2 hr 40 min) |
| 1 | Introduction to International Forensic Strategic Alliance (IFSA) | To provide a brief background and history on the development of IFSA and short introduction to the 6 regional networks and 3 strategic partners. | 30 min |
| 2 | Develop Minimum Requirement Documents (MRDs) | To introduce the genesis of the MRD, the role the MRDs play in developing and enhancing quality of forensic labs worldwide, the workflow of developing a new MRD, and the lineup of future MRD. | 40 min |
| 3 | Identify Emerging Issues | Participants will be split into smaller discussion groups to identify emerging issues in forensic science, and tools for evaluating and strategising these issues will be introduced. | 40 min |
| 4 | Identify Research and Development Priorities | A recount of the development of the IFSA R&I Position Statement in 2021, and how this has been leveraged by various networks in seeking funding and strategising research work. Participants will have opportunities to plan and strategise upcoming R&D priorities collaboratively. | 40 min |
| 5 | Conclusion | A final wrap up of issues discussed. | 10 min |
Participant Materials:
Participants will receive digital handouts, checklists, and link to resources.
Certificate of Completion:
Yes
Price:
50 €
Dental Age Assessment in Cadavers
Authors
IOFOS Course
Prof. Dr. Hrvoje Brkic, University of Zagreb, Dental School (Treasurer)
Prof. Dr. Cristiana Palmela Pereira, University of Lisbon, Dental School (President)
Presenters
Prof. Dr. Hrvoje Brkic, University of Zagreb, Dental School
Prof. Dr. Cristiana Palmela Pereira, University of Lisbon, Dental School
Prof. Dr. Simen Kopperud, University of Oslo, Dental School
Target Audience
Professionals and researchers in Forensic Odontology, Forensic Anthropology, Forensic Pathology, and other related forensic disciplines.
Knowledge Level
Intermediate
Educational Content:
Program Description
This educational activity focuses on the histological and morphological analysis of adult teeth for forensic age estimation. Participants will examine photographic documentation of histological sections obtained from adult cadaveric teeth and learn how to interpret age-related dental changes.
The program will address classical and widely accepted forensic dental age assessment methods, including the Gustafson, Johanson, and Lamendin approaches, emphasizing their biological basis, methodological procedures, and applicability in forensic contexts. Through guided analysis of sectioned teeth photographs, participants will explore key age-related dental parameters such as attrition, secondary dentine deposition, cementum apposition, root transparency, and periodontal recession.
The teaching approach integrates theoretical explanation with practical interpretation exercises, enabling participants to understand both the strengths and limitations of these methods when applied in medico-legal investigations involving adult individuals.
Learning Objetives:
At the end of this educational hands-on session, participants will be able to:
Practical and Educational Value:
Dental age assessment in adults remains a critical component of forensic identification, particularly in cases involving unknown human remains. This educational activity provides participants with practical exposure to classical histological approaches that continue to inform modern forensic practice.
By analysing photographic sections of adult teeth from cadaveric material, participants will gain insight into the morphological dental markers of ageing and develop skills in the interpretation of dental histological evidence. The session reinforces the relevance of these methods within multidisciplinary forensic investigations and supports the development of competencies required for accurate and scientifically grounded age estimation in forensic casework.
Time-Based Outline:
60 min
Theoretical introduction to adult dental age assessment
• Biological basis of dental ageing
• Overview of the Gustafson, Johanson, and Lamendin methods
• Forensic applicability and methodological limitations
15 min
Coffee break
15 min
Hands-on practical exercise
• Analysis of photographic sections of adult teeth
• Identification of age-related dental features
• Application of Gustafson, Johanson, and Lamendin criteria
15 min
Coffee break
60 min
Case analysis and report preparation
• Interpretation of findings
• Estimation of age range
• Preparation of a forensic-style report
30 min
Discussion of results and conclusions
• Comparison of participant results
• Methodological considerations
• Questions and final remarks
Participant Prerequisites
Laptop
Materials and Added Value
Participant Materials
Certificate of Completion
Yes, by IOFOS.
Price:
50 €
Empowering forensic scientists minds for an AI world
Chair/ Co – chair:
Sheila Willis DSc; Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland
Instructors/ Presenters:
Program Description:
The workshop will reflect on how silos – developed as a result of increased specialization and applied technologies over the last one hundred years – have not served forensic science well, weakening the collective voice and reducing opportunities to maximize the value of multiple diverse traces. If forensic science does not reorient itself to embrace cross-disciplinary training, validated digital methods, and transparent governance, technological change risks fragmenting practice, eroding public trust, and diminishing evidential value in the courts.
The SD sought to refocus on fundamentals as a way of improving education, research, and practice. This is certainly applicable to technologies available today, regardless of their stage of development and implementation. While the future is always uncertain – and likely to undergo a complete paradigm shift in light of AI – participants will be encouraged to reflect on how the fundamentals remain relevant and how best to ensure that science continues to support justice.
Keywords: Technology; AI; Fundamentals; Sydney Declaration;
Program Schedule:
Duration | Topic | Presenter |
15 min | Attendee Arrival, Introductions, Overview | All |
30 min | Brief review of the development of forensic science over the last 100 years | Sheila
|
30 min | Challenges and opportunities of digital transformation – Why the SD fundamental Principles are more relevant than ever
| Claude |
15 min | BREAK |
|
30 min | The value of SD in a developing service | Antonel |
45 min | Educating to promote critical thinking | Michelle |
45 min | The impact of AI on education and practice | Frank |
30 min | Discussions, Wrap-up, Closing Remarks | All |
Learning Objectives:
Practical and Educational Value:
Technology – especially AI – is changing forensic science faster than traditional programs and institutions can adapt. This workshop examines how we plan and educate for the “forensic science of tomorrow,” when specific future developments and their roles in the delivery of forensic science are unknown. Building on the IAFS2023 Sydney Declaration’s call for establishing a unified foundation of forensic science to drive education, research and practice, this workshop serves to:
Impact Statement:
This presentation will impact the conference attendance by
– Emphasizing foundational principles of forensic science;
– Prompting a reflection on how AI may impact forensic science;
– Illustrating that fundamentals are needed regardless of level of technology in use;
Knowledge Level:
Intermediate
Price:
50 €
The Forensic Investigation of Lightning- and Electrocution Cases
Chair/ Co – chair:
Instructors/ Presenters:
Blumenthal. Ryan, MBChB (Pret), MMed (Med Forens) Pret, FC For Path (SA) Dip For Med (SA) PhD (Wits) Senior specialist forensic pathologist and full professor at the University of Pretoria’s Department of Forensic Medicine.
He has published widely in the fields of lightning and electrocution. His chief mission in life is to help advance Forensic Pathology Services both nationally and internationally. Blumenthal has published 46 articles in peer-reviewed Journals. He has contributed Chapters to seven (7) international textbooks. He is currently an NRF-C2 rated scientist.
His eight-part documentary “Lightning Pathologist” (Channel 180 DSTV) aired 9 November 2020 to 20 November 2020, and was viewed by over 2.2 million people.
On the 31st August 2023, Ryan Blumenthal won the NRF Award for the Public Engagement in Research.
On the 22nd October 2023, Ryan Blumenthal won the Absa Professional Excellence Award.
On the 31st July 2025, Ryan Blumenthal won the NSTF Award or the Communication of Science.
Program Description:
This workshop reviews recent academic research into the pathology of trauma of lightning and electrothermal injuries.
Time-Based Outline:
Part 1: The Forensic Investigation of Lightning Strike Cases (90 minutes)
– the workshop is tailor made for the forensic science community.
– The scope and nature of lightning.
– The different types of lightning.
– How lightning is formed, what type of clouds, what type of weather.
– The six ways lightning attaches to the human and / or animal body.
– The five ways lightning can injure and kill.
– What to look for on lightning strike scenes.
– Lightning and the living (lightning-strike survivors)
– What symptoms to expect from lightning-strike survivors.
– The autopsy of a lightning-struck victim.
– What signs to look for on the human and / or animal body.
– What to do in an electrical thunderstorm.
– The do’s and don’ts – Rookie mistakes in a thunderstorm.
– What is considered a ‘safe lightning shelter’?
– How to practice lightning safety.
– How to practice lightning advocacy in your community: When thunder Roars – Go Indoors!
– What to do if someone is struck by lightning?
– Lightning myths and beliefs – local and international perspectives.
– Lightning physics, protection of renewable energy systems, lightning protection with AI and machine learning, lightning safety awareness, lightning protective clothing, the weaponization of lightning – very briefly discussed.
– Wilderness Medicine Aspects of Lightning: Doing what you can, with what you got, where you are.
– Lightning safety awareness.
– An in-depth look at the forensic investigation of a lightning strike case (a case study will be provided).
– Questions and Answers.
(Tea break – 30 minutes)
Part 2: The Forensic Investigation of Electrocution Cases (90 minutes)
– Introduction, basic theory, including a glossary of terminology.
– Commercial electrical distribution
– Electrical safety considerations
– Current flow in body, effect of frequency, sensation
– Effects on bodily functions and organ systems
– Electropathology.
– Low voltage injuries.
– High voltage injuries.
– The typical electrocution.
– The atypical electrocution.
– Electrical torture cases.
– Conducted energy weapons (Stun Guns and Taser® Devices)
– Electrocution in pregnancy.
– Microwave oven injuries.
– Knife fish, electric eels and other electrical fish.
– An in-depth look at the forensic investigation of electrocution cases (case studies will be provided).
– Questions and Answers.
Learning Objectives:
Aimed at the trainee, or practicing forensic expert, this presentation provides a scientific and clinicopathological approach to lightning and electrocution cases.
Practical and Educational Value:
Knowledge Level:
Basic / Intermediate / Advanced
Price:
50 €
Searching for and identifying World War II military dead in Europe
Chair/ Co – chair:
Dr Jean-Loup Gassend, Centre Universitaire Romand de Médecine Légale, Switzerland
Instructors/ Presenters:
Dr Jean-Loup Gassend, Centre Universitaire Romand de Médecine Légale, Switzerland
Program Description:
Why are so many soldiers from WWII still considered missing today, or buried on the battlefields? By what means can they be found and identified? Introduction to the topic followed by presentations of several specific cases.
Time-Based Outline:
Structured overview of major content blocks and breaks
-Introduction: 30 min
-Examples from Russia and Croatia: 30 min
-The Villeneuve-Loubet exhumation: 45 min
-The case of two missing resistance men in France: 30 min
-Identification of Enno Strobel based on his fingerprints: 20 minutes.
Learning Objectives:
Practical and Educational Value:
Relevance for participants’ future forensic practice.
If participants come across such cases in the future, their interest to investigate them more carefully may be increased after seeing the presentation.
Knowledge Level:
Basic
Price:
50 €
Essential Biological Profiling: A FASE-Validated Practical Guide for First Responders and Practitioners
Chair/ Co – chair:
Chair: Pr Pascal ADALIAN, Aix-Marseille University (ADES UMR 7268), France. FASE President.
Co-Chair: Pr Eugenia CUNHA, University of Coimbra, National Institute of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences, Portugal. FASE Past President.
Instructors/ Presenters:
Pr Pascal ADALIAN (France)
Pr Eugenia CUNHA (Portugal)
Program Description:
This half-day workshop serves as a comprehensive ‘Practical Guide’ to the estimation of the biological profile (sex, age, stature) in adult human remains. Directed by the President and Past-President of the Forensic Anthropology Society of Europe (FASE), the session is specifically designed for first responders and medicolegal practitioners who require reliable, standardized methods for the initial assessment of skeletal remains.
The program focuses exclusively on methodologies validated for expertise. Through a series of theoretical presentations formatted as ‘Standard Operating Procedures’ (SOPs), participants will learn how to select and apply the most reliable osteometric and morphological methods, avoiding common pitfalls associated with visual intuition.
The workshop features a ‘Mixed’ format, integrating theory with real-time digital interaction. Using the Wooclap audience response system, participants will engage in live case studies, testing their diagnostic skills on projected skeletal cases and visualizing the consensus – or divergence – within the group. Participants will receive a digital package containing method summaries (practical forms) and direct access links to verified online decision-support tools used during the session.
Programme outline
Participant Prerequisites:
Learning Objectives:
Practical and Educational Value:
Attendees will leave with a clear roadmap of ‘What to do’ and ‘What not to do’ when confronted with skeletal remains. The distribution of a digital resource list (validated web-apps and guidelines) provides immediate operational support for their daily casework and serves as a solid foundation for those preparing for future FASE certification.
Target Audience:
Knowledge Level:
Basic to Intermediate
Price:
50 €
Discriminative Artificial Intelligence Approaches to Classifying Transfer Bloodstains: Scientific Principles and Forensic Applications
Chair/ Co – chair:
Daniel Attinger, Sc.D.Department of Basic Medical Sciences, University of the West Indies, Jamaica
Instructors/ Presenters:
Daniel Attinger, Sc.D.Department of Basic Medical Sciences, University of the West Indies, Jamaica
Program Description:
Transfer bloodstains, formed by contact between a blood source and a receiving surface, preserve physical evidence of object shape, motion trajectories, and fluid mechanical processes at crime scenes. Traditional interpretation depends heavily on subjective visual evaluation, which can introduce examiner variability. This workshop explores the scientific foundations and forensic utility of discriminative artificial intelligence methods for objective classification of transfer bloodstain patterns. Drawing from experimental datasets and validation research, the presentation examines how deep learning architectures can extract and categorize features related to object geometry and dynamics, achieving reported error rates of 10–20% in independent tests for key classifications (object type identification and motion reconstruction).
Topics include:
Learning Objectives:
Upon completion, participants will:
Practical and Educational Value:
Crime scene investigators, bloodstain pattern analysts, forensic scientists, and attorneys. No prior knowledge of bloodstain pattern analysis or artificial intelligence is required. Materials:
A smartphone or camera with internet access for image capture and viewing example datasets during discussion.
Knowledge Level:
All levels
Price:
50 €
Navigating AI-synthesised handwriting in forensic practice
Chair/ Co – chair:
Samiah Ibrahim, ForensInk, Canada
Instructors/ Presenters:
Elisa van den Heuvel, Maastricht Forensic Institute, Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, NL; Marc Gaudreau, ForensInk Corp., Ottawa, Canada; Samiah Ibrahim, ForensInk Corp., Ottawa, Canada; Maud Grijpink, Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, NL
Program Description:
It is expected that the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to wholly synthesise handwriting will rapidly transform the landscape of forensic document examination. This workshop will briefly introduce participants to the evolution of handwriting analysis, tracing its historical roots from physical examination of ink and paper to the adoption of digital tools and methodologies. Historically, forensic handwriting experts have relied on the recognition of individual traits, such as letterform design, stroke sequence, and pen pressure to authenticate documents and attribute authorship. However, advancements in AI have enabled the generation of synthetic handwriting that can closely mimic genuine human writing, challenging long-established protocols and raising new questions about authenticity. Contemporary challenges now centre on the detection of AI-generated handwriting, which often lacks the natural variation and subconscious idiosyncrasies found in authentic samples. The absence of physical characteristics in digital documents further complicates analysis, as traditional forensic markers like substrate and ink properties are no longer present. Limited access to comprehensive databases of synthetic handwriting and the increasing sophistication of generative algorithms add layers of complexity for examiners. The half-day workshop will explore the current state of AI handwriting synthesis, provide practical case examples and collaborative exercises for participants to work through, and discuss why adapting forensic practices is essential. Designed specifically for forensic handwriting experts, this session will provide practical insights into the current state of advanced digital forensic techniques and machine learning-based detection strategies, while developing collaborative approaches for staying ahead of these technological developments. By fostering interdisciplinary cooperation, the workshop aims to equip participants with the knowledge and skills needed to uphold the integrity of document verification in the age of AI. Join us to examine the intersection of tradition and innovation, and to chart a roadmap for the future of forensic handwriting examination.
Time-Based Outline:
Introductions
Survey of participants knowledge (pre)
Definitions & theory
– health break –
Practical work (hands-on assessments)
Survey of participants knowledge (post)
Wrap up
Learning Objectives:
By the end of the session participants will learn:
Participant Prerequisites:
Participant Materials:
All theoretical information presented
Official presentations in digital form
Hands-on examples
Certificate of Completion:
Yes
Practical and Educational Value:
A wholly practical workshop, this workshop will equip participants for the near future reality of forensic casework involving the submission of AI generated handwritings.
Target Audience:
Forensic document/handwriting examiners, digital forensics professionals, anyone interested.
Knowledge Level:
All levels
Price:
50 €
Courtroom Communication
Chair/ Co – chair:
Dr Heather Doran, Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, University of Dundee
Professor Anne Coxon, Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, University of Dundee
Instructors/ Presenters:
Program Description:
Interactive session with demonstrations and opportunities to practice communication skills.
Clear communication of forensic science is essential for the fair administration of criminal justice. The communication of scientific ideas and principles in testimony can be especially challenging as the scientist has to convey complex ideas at the same time to multiple audiences of non-scientists, whether it is the jury, the judge or other legal professionals. Based on sound theory and proven methodologies, this workshop brings together forensic scientists and science communication professionals. Participants will be introduced to communication theory and practical tools to develop skills in science communication. It will offer a dynamic, participatory experience that introduces core techniques such as analogy-building, narrative structure, and active listening to improve comprehension and engagement. Participants will also explore common communication challenges faced by forensic scientists, including explaining uncertainty and avoiding jargon.
Time-Based Outline:
Session 1: 1.30 hr (Introduction and basic skills)
Break: 15 mins
Session 2: 1.30 hr (Developing skills and next steps)
Learning Objectives:
3–6 measurable objectives
Practical and Educational Value:
To aid their forensic science communication skills in courtrooms and how they communicate with non-specialists in the justice system.
Participant Materials:
Short digital and/or printed materials with practical value
Knowledge Level:
Basic / Intermediate
Price:
50 €
FIGG from Start to Finish: Sample Selection, Sequencing Options, Genetic Genealogy, and Confirmation of the Investigative Lead
Chair/ Co – chair:
Alison Wilde, Accredited Investigative Genetic Genealogist at DNA Labs International, United States
Rachel Oefelein, Chief Scientific OAicer and Laboratory Director at DNA Labs International, United States
Instructors/ Presenters:
Laurence Devesse, Global Product Manager at Qiagen, Switzerland
Program Description:
Follow along as a case goes through the Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy (FIGG) process from start to finish! Learn why evidence sample selection is different for SNP DNA sequencing than for traditional DNA (STR) profiles. Watch a live demonstration of the genealogy work needed to identify DNA relative matches, build family trees, and find common ancestor connections. Then participate as SNP DNA probabilities are utilized to determine likely candidate placement within the family trees as descendancy research unfolds. See how the resulting Investigative Lead gets delivered to the investigating agency and read through sample genealogy and lab reports. Lastly, learn about proper confirmation of a FIGG investigative lead through various paths open to investigating agencies in the post-genealogy phase of casework.
This workshop will guide participants through a successful FIGG case, from initial case review and sample selection to confirmation of the investigative lead developed through genetic genealogy. The genetic genealogy portion is designed to clarify the steps involved in moving from a list of DNA matches to placing a FIGG DNA profile within a broader network of family trees.
To protect the privacy of living DNA relatives and their families, the case will be anonymized through changes to names, dates, and locations.
Presenters include a genetic genealogist, laboratory director, and a SNP sequencing researcher.
Scope: The workshop will follow one Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy (FIGG) case from initial case review to confirmation of the investigative lead.
Time-Based Outline:
Structured overview of major content blocks and breaks:
15 minutes
Welcome / Introductions – Rachel Oefelein
30 minutes
DNA Differences: SNPs (for FIGG) vs. STRs (traditional forensic DNA) –
Laurence Devesse
30 minutes
Sample Selection, SNP Sequencing, Lab and Database Considerations for
FIGG – Rachel Oefelein
45 minutes
Identifying Relative Matches and Finding a Common Ancestor – Alison Wilde
15 minutes
Break
30 minutes
Descendancy Research and Using SNP DNA Probabilities for likely Subject
Placement in Family Trees – Alison Wilde
15 minutes
Understanding FIGG Genealogy Reports and Investigative Leads – Rachel
Oefelein
15 minutes
Confirmation of Investigative Leads via Traditional Forensic DNA – Laurence
Devesse
15 minutes
Questions
Learning Objectives:
Practical and Educational Value:
Apply knowledge learned to existing and future FIGG casework; advise on future sample and sequencing selections.
Participant Materials:
Printed handout summarizing FIGG workflow
Links to download printed handout and/or presentation slides
Target Audience:
Forensic Biology
Forensic DNA Analysis
Forensic Genetics
Forensic Genetic Genealogy
Knowledge Level:
All levels
Price:
50 €
From Sample to Age: A Practical Workshop on Forensic Epigenetics
Chair/ Co – chair:
Noemi Procopio, University of Lancashire, UK
Athina Vidaki, Maastricht University, Netherlands
Instructors/ Presenters:
Andrea Bonicelli, University of Lancashire, UK
Program Description:
Several methylation signatures have been recently developed for estimating chronological age of both living and dead subjects, and these methods have started to be used in Europe for caseworks. However, more knowledge is required to educate the international forensic community for their future implementation in real-case scenarios. This intermediate-level, half-day workshop will provide forensic practitioners and researchers with practical training in the application of DNA methylation analysis for chronological age estimation. Through a combination of short lectures, case-based discussions, and hands-on exercises, participants will explore the use of epigenetic clocks in forensic science.
The session will begin with a foundational overview of DNA methylation and its relevance to ageing. Speakers will then walk participants through various techniques for methylation profiling, including bisulphite and enzymatic conversion, PCR-based enrichment, and genotyping strategies like SNaPshot, NGS, and array-based methods, using case examples such as blood stains and degraded bones. Participants will be divided into small working groups to plan a methylation analysis workflow based on various given sample scenarios (including different source/tissue types, originated from both the living person and deceased).
Following this, the workshop will introduce published models for age prediction, demonstrating how to report estimates using established error metrics. Using methylation data, groups will estimate the age of a test sample using online tools. For more advanced users which are familiar with R coding, regression data processing and modelling will also be demonstrated, and findings will be compared between the groups. The workshop will conclude with a moderated discussion on implementation challenges, technological gaps, and the need for international standardisation.
This workshop is ideal for those with a basic background in forensic DNA analysis who wish to expand their skill set in cutting-edge epigenetic methods.
Teaching approach will be blended, with frontal lectures and practical exercises.
Participant Prerequisites
Participants are expected to bring their laptops and to pre-install R studio on their computers. Slides and exercises will be shared with participants digitally before the workshop.
Learning Objectives:
Practical and Educational Value:
Overall, the workshop will enhance participants’ ability to implement epigenetic age estimation methods, interpret complex molecular data from forensic casework, and contribute to the development of standardised practices supporting future forensic admissibility.
Target Audience:
All disciplines/biology (basic knowledge of forensic DNA required; a glossary and preparatory material will be shared in advance). Forensic discipline(s) or “All Disciplines”
Knowledge Level:
Intermediate
Price:
50 €
Post Mortem Computed Tomography Angiography: what is the next step?
Chair/ Co – chair:
DEDOUIT Fabrice and Silke GRABHERR
DEDOUIT Fabrice, Medico-legal department, Toulouse Hospital, Toulouse, France
GRABHERR Silke, CURML, Geneva/Lausanne, Switzerland
Instructors/ Presenters:
Program Description:
This workshop introduces the principles, techniques, and applications of post-mortem CT angiography (PMCTA) in adults and children, with a focus on technical optimization and interactive case-based learning.
It provides a structured overview from historical development to the latest advances, including gas-enhanced and pressure-controlled angiography, and presents preliminary data from specialized centres.
– Preliminary program Thursday 28 May, room 9:
30 minutes
Introduction into PMCTA and TWGPAM.
S. Grabherr, CURML Lausanne/Geneva, Switzerland
30 minutes
Coffee break
2 hours
Coronary arteries in PMCTA.
K. Michaud, CURML Lausanne/Geneva, Switzerland – 13 minutes
Whole-body and targeted PMCTA in the Krakow experience.
K. Woźniak, Faculty of Medicine, Chair and Department of Forensic Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College,Krakow, Poland – 13 minutes
Gas-enhanced angiography.
Borowska-Solonynko and V. Prokopowicz, Medical University of Warsaw, Chair and Department of Forensic Medicine, Warsaw, Poland – 13 minutes
Advances in imaging quality in PMCTA by pressure-controlled angiography.
Fischer, University of Munich, Institute of Forensic Medicine, Munich, Germany – 13 minutes
A pump of PMCTA for low income places.
M.F. Galvao, J.R. Pires Davidson, University of Brasilia and University of São Paulo, Brasilia, São Paulo, Brazil – 13 minutes
Introduction to pediatric PMCTA (pedPMCTA).
G.M. Bruch, University of Munich, Institute of Forensic Medicine, Munich, Germany – 9 minutes
Pediatric PMCTA (pedPMCTA): technical feasibility and emerging forensic insights.
Vanhaebost, Cliniques universitaires Saint Luc, Institute of Forensic Medicine, Brussels, Belgium – 9 minutes
MPMCTA: The Experience of the Institute of Legal Medicine of Modena.
A. Laura Santunione¹, J. Camatti², B. Gangi³, G.i Battinelli⁴, L. Alemanno⁴, G. Pizzuti⁴, R. Cecchi¹ Modena and Parma, Italy – 10 minutes
FUMEDICA’s involvement in MPMCTA.
Dominguez, Fumedica, Muri, Switzerland – 10 minutes
Interactive real cases presentation.
V. Magnin, CURML Lausanne/Geneva, Switzerland – 17 minutes
Learning Objectives:
Practical and Educational Value:
Audience level:
All disciplines
Knowledge Level:
Intermediate
Price:
Free
Applying Computational Intelligence in Medical Forensics – The INFORENSIC information system supporting the Greek governmental medical forensic service
Chair/ Co – chair:
Prof. Ilias Maglogiannis – University of Piraeus
Instructors/ Presenters:
Prof. Ilias Maglogiannis – University of Piraeus
Project Team – Developers and Engineers
Program Description:
The goal of this workshop to present the technologies and the implementation of an intelligent information system which utilizes advanced methods to support and automate the entire workflow of a medical forensics department. The proposed system assists the Forensic Pathologist – FP both in the examination area, via a highly usable tablet application, and in the office, via an easy-to-use web interface. In particular, the system utilizes multi-modal observation data input, such as image and video capturing, voice recordings, speech recognition and manual typing. AI algorithms facilitate structured observation data extraction from both images and speech. Efficient knowledge management is achieved through forensic atlas data extraction methods offering quick multi-modal information retrieval at the time of the examination. Finally, the structured observation data are previewed in a web interface before being converted to human-readable reports using LLMs.
Program Outline:
Learning Objectives:
Practical and Educational Value:
Relevance for participants’ future forensic practice
Participant Materials
Short digital and/or printed materials with practical value.
Knowledge Level:
Basic
Price:
50 €
Workshop on new DNA interpretation guidelines for complex DNA mixture interpretation and statistical evaluation
Chair/ Co – chair:
Jord H.A. Nagel from the Netherlands
Instructors/ Presenters:
Jord H.A. Nagel
Program Description:
The aim of this workshop is to give the participants more insight in the interpretation of complex mixed DNA-profiles, perform comparative DNA-analysis and calculate evidential values of potential contributors. Although complex mixed DNA-profiles consist of the same building blocks as simple single source DNA-profiles the observed variation is much greater. New guidelines developed by the Netherlands Forensic Institute (NFI), provides an interpretation framework for DNA mixture interpretation aiding reporting officers who routinely deal with DNA-profiling in casework.
In this workshop complex mixed DNA-profiles are defined as low template mixed DNA-profiles and/or mixed DNA-profiles with three or more donors. Different aspects that make a DNA-profile a complex mixed DNA-profile will be addressed:
To help with interpreting complex mixed DNA-profiles and to prevent bias, calculating evidential values will be demonstrated as a way objectify the interpretation results.
– Scope, teaching approach, and applied focus
The first part of the workshop will be theoretical with some questions and answers. This will be volowed by a practical/hands-on session to show the theoretical framework in practise to the participants.
Program Outline
Part 1: theoretical part and questions followed by a break.
Part 2: practical session and questions, with in between an option for a break.
Participant Prerequisites:
Prior knowledge of DNA-interpretation is requested, a laptop is advised but not strictly necessary. If the participant does not have a laptop, than a printout of the exercises is recommended.
Learning Objectives:
Practical and Educational Value:
Providing a framework for evaluation complex mixed DNA profiles in the forensic practice
Target Audience:
Forensic DNA reporting officers or academics
Knowledge Level:
Intermediate / Advanced
Price:
50 €
Vacuum Metal Deposition: The Basics, The Applications, The Future
Chair/ Co – chair:
Roberto S. P. King (West Technology Forensics, United Kingdom)
Instructors/ Presenters:
Roberto S. P. King (West Technology Forensics)
Anita Horvath (West Technology Forensics)
Program Description:
Vacuum Metal Deposition (VMD®) remains one of the most sensitive and versatile techniques for the development of latent fingermarks across a wide range of substrates. While the underpinning science is well established, modern instrumentation, improved automation, and evolving laboratory workflows have transformed accessibility and operational delivery.
This workshop provides a structured and practical introduction to VMD, combining theory with laboratory application. Attendees will explore vacuum generation, metal selection, deposition strategies, and the mechanisms that lead to ridge detail visualisation.
The session places strong emphasis on real-world implementation. Participants will review best practice in sample preparation, parameter optimisation, and imaging. Case examples will demonstrate how VMD contributes to investigative outcomes and court presentation.
Where feasible, attendees are encouraged to bring sample items of interest for discussion and potential processing.
The workshop concludes with a forward look at current development trends and future opportunities in vacuum technologies for fingermark enhancement.
Program outline:
Participant Prerequisites:
Learning Objectives:
Practical and Educational Value:
Participants will gain knowledge directly transferable to operational casework, procurement decisions, and method selection strategies. The workshop bridges the gap between theoretical understanding and day-to-day laboratory reality, enabling attendees to maximise performance and return on investment from VMD capability.
Digital reference pack including:
Target Audience: Fingermark examiners, laboratory managers, forensic practitioners, researchers, and anyone with responsibility for latent print development or capability planning.
Knowledge Level:
Basic to Intermediate
Price:
50 €
AECVP cardiovascular pathology update 2026
Chair/ Co – chair:
Katarzyna Michaud, Stephen D Cohle
Instructors/ Presenters:
Kristine Boisen Olsen, Copenhagen Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; ORCID ORCID: 0000-0002-8675-8589, Hans de Boer, Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine and Department of Forensic Medicine, Monash University, Southbank, VIC, Australia; ORCID: 0000-0001-8590-0945
Stephen D Cohle, Chief Medical Examiner of Kent Country, Grand Rapids, Michigan, US
Christina Jacobsen, Copenhagen Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; ORCID:0000-0001-7257-0772
Katarzyna Michaud, University Center of Legal Medicine Lausanne – Geneva, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Switzerland; ORCID: 0000-0003-2681-2544
Sarah Parsons, Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine and Department of Forensic Medicine, Monash University, Southbank, VIC, Australia; ORCID: 0000-0002-1238-1360
Joseph Westaby, City St George’s University of London; England, GB, ORCI: 0000-0002-1903-2390
Program Description:
The Association for European Cardiovascular Pathology (AECVP, https://aecvp.org) was founded in 2001 as continuation of European School of Cardiovascular Pathology puts much emphasis on postgraduate educational programs in meetings dealing with cardiovascular science, serving as a platform for research collaborations, and updating the diagnostic pathology in recommendations and guidelines on topical issues such as sudden cardiac death relevant to practicing cardiovascular and forensic pathologists.
This workshop will update the knowledge in the field of cardiovascular pathology necessary in daily practice for all forensic pathologists and also indicate the line of future research in the field.
Program outline:
a) Introduction, Heart examination (techniques, terminology) not only for dummies, Katarzyna Michaud, 20 minutes
b) Myocarditis, the new Seaport criteria and their use in forensics, Sarah Parsons; 20 minutes
c) Cardiovascular imaging for sudden cardiac death, Christina Jacobsen, 20 minutes
d) Negative autopsy and channelopathies; Joseph Westaby, 20 minutes
e) Postmortem clinical chemistry, Hans de Boer, 20 minutes
f) Toxicology and the heart, Stephen D Cohle, 20 minutes
g) Interactive cases presentation, Kristine Boisen Olsen, 20 minutes
h) Panel discussion, 20 minutes
Participant Prerequisites:
Learning Objectives:
Education objective(s): After attending this presentation, attendees will:
Practical and Educational Value:
This workshop will impact the forensic science community by updating the knowledge of the heart dissection and in diagnostic criteria for the most common causes of sudden cardiac death and about the use of ancillary technologies (as post-mortem chemistry, toxicology, genetic testing and radiology) and their current role and prospective, not only for natural cases but also for traumatic and post cardiac surgery cases involving medical liability. The participants will understand the advantages and limitations as well the possible pitfalls of these methods. By including discussion with participants, the usefulness of these methods will be clearer to the forensic science community.
Target Audience: Forensic disciplines, Forensic pathology.
Knowledge Level:
Basic/Intermediate
Price:
50 €
To err is human, but to persist in error is diabolical – a workshop on learning from error in forensic science
Chair/ Co – chair:
Nicole Crown, Zurich Forensic Science Institute Switzerland / Dr Tomasz Dziedzic, Institute of Forensic Research, Krakow, Poland
Dr Raymond Marquis, University of Lausanne, Switzerland
Dr Carolyne Bird, Forensic Science South Australia
Erich Kupferschmid, Zurich Forensic Science Institute, Switzerland
Jana Aumeistere, State Forensic Science Bureau, Riga, Latvia
Instructors/ Presenters:
Nicole Crown and Dr Tomasz Dziedzic
Program Description:
The scope of this workshop includes presentations on error facets and research, error sources as well as error mitigation in forensic science. Several famous cases are presented and discussed throughout the workshop. Foremost, we will show how error in safe environment can be used as a powerful learning tool to advance personal and discipline competency. Error may be even seen as a science propeller if it helps uncover systematic issues and contributes to better risk management. This workshop aims to promote a positive error culture by recognizing the value of learning from mistakes to support continuous improvement. The workshop contains different practical exercises to enable group discussions and to provide profound understanding of the topic.
Program outline:
– Bertillon, Dreifuss and Locard: Acknowledge error that error happens.
Duration ca. 15-20 minutes
– Learn From Error: Lessons learned from medicine, aviation and the Madrid Bomber case:
Duration ca. 30 minutes
– Error Facets: the multiple faces of error:
Duration ca. 15-20 minutes
– Error Sources: from perception to misleading evidence; lessons learned from the Hitler diaries affair:
Duration ca. 30 minutes
– Error mitigation: practical tools to minimise chance of error and the Swiss cheese model:
Duration ca. 30 minutes.
Participant Prerequisites:
Learning Objectives:
Practical and Educational Value:
The participants will be made aware of potential pitfalls in case work and how to recognize them. The importance of a positive and transparent error culture in forensic science will be emphasized. Finally, various mitigation strategies will be presented and discussed.
Target Audience: All Disciplines
Knowledge Level:
Basic
Price:
50 €
ISO 21043 Forensic sciences, finally a real worldwide forensic standard
Chair/ Co – chair:
Charles Berger, professor in Criminalistics at Leiden University, principal scientist at Netherlands Forensic Institute
Instructors/ Presenters:
Didier Meuwly, professor in forensic biometry at Twente University, principal scientist at Netherlands Forensic Institute
Program Description:
It’s all about the ISO21043 Forensic sciences standard series, which covers the whole forensic process from crime scene to courtroom: crime scene work, analysis, interpretation and reporting.
Apart from PowerPoints there will be active discussions around tables and summing up for the entire group.
Learning Objectives:
Knowing the philosophy and reasoning behind every part of the standard the facilitators will help you get an overview of the standard, and how it can benefit your work.
Practical and Educational Value:
The standard, and knowledge of the standard, has the potential to raise the level of forensic practice worldwide.
Target Audience: Forensic examiners, quality managers, managers, customers, etc.
Knowledge Level:
All levels
Price:
50 €
Integration of the forensic nurse into disaster victim identification
Chair/ Co – chair:
Joyce Williams, U.S.A.
David Williams, U.S.A.
Instructors/ Presenters:
Sven Bentenhaus, Germany
Valaria Kaegi, Switzerland
Program Description:
Lecture followed by tabletop exercise
Program Outline
30 min – Overview of disaster response
30 min – Specifics of identification
30 min – Overview of implementation of forensic nursing in disasters
20 min – Break
30 min – Case studies in the use of forensic nurses in disaster
10 min – Small group instructions for given scenario
30 min – Group work
30 min – Analysis of group work
Learning Objectives:
Distinguish the concepts of the disaster process
Articulate in general terms the work flow of a typical morgue.
Analyze the various functions within the disaster victim identification process where the skills of a forensic nurse can be implemented.
Practical and Educational Value:
At the end of this workshop participants will have an understanding of the disaster procedures, challenges to the disaster site, general morgue flow, approaches to interfacing with victim’s families, and how forensic nurses can fully integrate into a disaster response.
Target Audience:
All disciplines
Knowledge Level:
Intermediate
Price:
50 €
From Loss to Answers: Human Rights-Focused AI Tools for the Deceased and Their Families
Chair/ Co – chair:
Dr. Bente Skattør, Innovation and applied research, Oslo Police District & Associate II Professor NTNU, Norway;
Ruth Buchley, Incident Examination and Forensic Scene Management, London Metropolitan Police, & Partnerships and collaboration with ENFSI, BAFS and CSFSS
Instructors/ Presenters:
Oddvar Moldestad, Police Superintendent, Western Police District, Norway;
Kjeld Hendrik Helland-Hansen, Police Superintendent, Western Police District, Norway;
Xander Radpey, Police Intendent, Oslo Police District, Norway
Program Description:
War, terrorism, and severe incidents create chaos in which the deceased, the missing, and their families rely on accurate documentation. International humanitarian law requires proper search, identification, and dignified handling of the deceased, while families have the right to know what happened. Yet crises often cause information loss, weak coordination, and poor forensic documentation, undermining identification and repatriation. This workshop presents an AI-enabled crime scene documentation tool, developed by the Norwegian Police, that uses voice-controlled cameras and speech-to-text and agentic AI for rapid produced CSI reports, hands-free evidence collection and shared situational awareness. In this workshop a live demo of the tools will be done, and participants will be taught to use and test selected components of the system, including voice-controlled capture, speech-to-text field note generation, and AI-assisted draft documentation workflows. The participants can contribute actively to discuss the tools potential, limits, and ethical and legal safeguards in mass-fatality and human rights investigations.
Participant Prerequisites:
Learning Objectives:
Below are the key questions and objectives that will guide the walkthrough and roundtable discussion about operational challenges in early forensic documentation in mass-fatality, conflict, and human rights context:
Practical and Educational Value:
AI and related technologies are advancing at a rapid pace, whereas crime scene investigation (CSI) must adhere to strict, methodical, and highly standardized procedures. This workshop seeks to make emerging technologies more tangible and accessible to the audience through practical demonstration and discussion where the AI tools may add value, where they may create risk, and which safeguards are necessary before wider operational use. Special attention will be given to how AI-assisted documentation may affect forensic quality, traceability, verification, and evidentiary robustness.
Participant Materials:
• Short printed materials with practical value for the workshop and relevant references
Target Audience:
Forensic, Technology, Human Rights (The workshop is customized for a cross-functional audience)
Knowledge Level:
All levels
Price:
50 €
Guidelines for Forensic Professionals on Cases of Crimes against Journalists
Chair/ Co – chair:
Prof. Claude Roux, University of Technology, Sydney, Australia,
John Bosco Mayiga, UNESCO, France
Instructors/ Presenters:
Prof. Claude Roux, University of Technology, Sydney, Australia,
John Bosco Mayiga, UNESCO, France
Program Description:
The programme content will consist of general presentation of UNESCO’s mandate on safety of journalists, presentation of the Guidelines, and then a practical part involving actual case studies of crimes against journalists
Participant Prerequisites:
Program Outline
Learning Objectives:
The objectives therefore are to create awareness among forensic professionals about UNESCO’s mandate on safety of journalists, introduce the Guidelines to forensic professionals as a framework for handling cases against journalists, and present actual case studies as a practical component of dealing with crimes against journalists.
Practical and Educational Value:
The practical component will provide real life pathways into dealing with cases of crimes against journalists
Participant Materials
Target Audience:
All Disciplines
Knowledge Level:
Аll levels
Price:
50 €
Forensic Relevant incidents in outdoor aquatic scenes: From law enforcement and medical examiner investigations through prosecutions.
Chair/ Co – chair:
Andrea Zaferes, Dutchess County Medical Examiner’s Office, USA
Program Description:
After attending this workshop attendees will be able to better recognize, document, investigate, and prosecute pediatric and adult aquatic outdoor environment (AOS) homicides and nonfatal abuse, that are staged or present, as accidents, suicides, or respiratory illnesses. Examples of AOSs include rivers, lakes, oceans, ponds, and swimming pools. This presentation will impact the forensic community by providing: increased awareness of several types of AOS homicides, abuse, and assaults; verified tools facilitating early recognition of homicide indicators; scene processing; investigation and autopsy best practices; and methods for performing successful, justified prosecutions. Attendees will participate in several exercises of how to document transient evidence on scenes, investigative decision-making, submerged/floating evidence documentation and packaging, and searching for submerged evidence. Attendees will actively work through cases from 911 calls through prosecution, that were initially treated as drowning accidents or suicides, and, sometimes years later, re-opened and re classified. Each case history will provide lessons learned that attendees can apply to their past, present, and future AOS and pool death and nonfatal investigations and prosecutions. Unlike crash, fire, and firearm incidents, aquatic scenes typically lack evidence-based protocols, tools, and investigative forms. Agencies rarely have ‘aquatic investigators’ or ‘reconstructionists’. Drowning, as a circumstance-dependent, diagnosis of exclusion, is ripe for confirmation bias, and positive or negative misdiagnoses. This is especially true when apparent opioid overdoses, physical/mental disabilities, delayed deaths, respiratory illnesses, or forms of nonaquatic asphyxiation, maybe involved, and when reporting parties allege that victims had epilepsy, slipped and fell, misused alcohol, or were suicidal. Attendees will also work through two cases from the defense perspective to learn how to prevent wrongful convictions in challenging aquatic cases. Various aquatic crimes will be addressed including sexual assaults, punishment, domestic violence homicides, land-based homicides staged as noncriminal drownings, criminal drownings staged as land deaths or presenting as respiratory illnesses, as well as protocols for differentiating between accidents, neglect, and homicides of children. Workshop description Unlike fire, crash, and shooting scenes, forensic practitioners rarely have the resources of aquatic scene investigators or reconstructionists, evidence-based scene processing protocols, a body of research from which to draw upon, equipment, and sometimes, even they lack the ability to directly access the scene if not certified and equipped to enter submerged or high-risk aquatic scenes. Investigators are typically dependent on first responders such as dive and surface water rescue teams or marine patrol agencies who may be relying on unsupported assumptions and practices about bodies and other evidence in water. These assumptions are then relied upon by investigators and jurisprudence practitioners. This workshop will introduce attendees to best practices and resources for aquatic searchers and scene investigators, detectives, medical examiners and their investigators, attorneys and judges, and criminalists. While actively working through case histories, attendees will learn how aquatic-related homicides are at high risk for being misdiagnosed as accidents, suicides, and even natural deaths – and how to make accurate determinations the first time. Attendees will participate in several exercises of how to document transient evidence on scenes, investigative decision-making, and submerged/floating evidence documentation and packaging.
Participant Prerequisites:
Practical and Educational Value:
All of the following are directly related to aquatic openwater scenes First Responders (e.g., marine patrol, dive team personnel, water rescue/recovery personnel):
1. Transient evidence to document during the performance of duties
2. How to work with scene investigators, detectives, and medicolegal death investigators (MDIs), to find, identify, document, package, and transport evidence.
Scene investigators:
3. Evidence related to victim identification
Detectives, MDIs, and prosecutors
4. Basic, yet critical, laws of physics necessary to understand what happens to bodies and other evidence in water.
Prosecutors and judges
5. What to ask of your investigators?
Target Audience: All Disciplines – e.g., law enforcement, medical examiner personnel, scene investigators, marine patrol and water rescue/recovery teams (law enforcement, military, fire department) forensic nurses, prosecutors.
Knowledge Level:
All levels
Price:
50 €
A primer in image authentication and the analysis of manipulated or AI-generated images
Chair/ Co – chair:
Dr. Erik Krupicka, Federal Criminal Police Office in Germany
Instructors/ Presenters:
Dr. Erik Krupicka, Federal Criminal Police Office in Germany
Dr. Phil Kleinschmidt, Federal Criminal Police Office in Germany
Program Description:
Through a series of practical exercises and real-world examples, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the techniques and tools used to verify the authenticity of digital images. The workshop will cover topics such as the detection of AI-generated artificial images, metadata analysis, camera source attribution (aka PRNU) providing the participants with a comprehensive introduction to the field of image authentication forensics.
Program outline:
Part 1 [ek]: AI Detection [90 min]
Break
Part 2 [PK]: PRNU [90 min]
Participant Prerequisites:
Learning Objectives:
Practical and Educational Value:
Knowledge about AI-generated or manipulated images and video is crucial for future forensic casework. As of today, images and videos play a significant role in countless investigations and court trials. Forensic experts need to know about the power of AI and how artificial data can be detected. In addition, forensic experts need to know about the method how to check, whether or not an image has been made with a given camera, e.g., the camera which has been seized from the suspect.
Participant Materials include:
Target Audience:
Knowledge Level:
Basic (75 % of workshop content)
Intermediate (25 % of workshop content)
Price:
50 €
Brought from AFOHR: Humanitarian Forensic Odontology to Spot Human Rights Violations
Chair/ Co – chair:
Prof. Emilio Nuzzolese, University of Turin, Italy
Prof. Ivana Cukovic Bagic, University of Zagreb, Croatia
Instructors/ Presenters:
Evi Untoro – AFOHR President
Ivana Cukovic-Bagic – Professor (Full), University of Zagreb, Croatia
Shirley Lewis – Associate (Clinical) Professor, Texas A&M University, USA
Akiko Kumagai – Professor (Full), Iwate Medical University, Japan
Mario Torreggianti – Teaching Assistant, University of Turin, Italy
Emilio Nuzzolese – Associate Professor, University of Turin, Italy
Program Description:
This workshop examines the operational and humanitarian role of forensic odontology within multidisciplinary responses to human rights violations. The session focuses on the protection of identity, dignity, and justice in complex humanitarian contexts, including migrant deaths, mass graves, missing persons investigations, dental age estimation in living individuals, human trafficking, torture, and child abuse and maltreatment.
The teaching approach integrates:
The workshop emphasizes applied practice by focusing on dental postmortem profiling, recognizing odontological indicators of mistreatment, documenting findings according to international standards, and contributing to accountability and truth-seeking mechanisms within international human rights and humanitarian law frameworks.
Dental age estimation is presented not merely as a technical procedure but as a critical element in protecting minors’ rights in migration, asylum, and child-protection systems.
Program outline:
Block 1 (45 min)
Introduction to Humanitarian Forensic Odontology
Block 2 (60 min)
Human Identification and Abuse Document
Break (15 min)
Block 3 (60 min)
Dental Age Estimation in Humanitarian Contexts
Block 4 (45 min)
Innovation, Ethics and AI
Final Discussion & Q&A (15–30 min)
Participant Prerequisites:
None (Laptop recommended for dental age exercise)
Learning Objectives:
Practical and Educational Value:
The knowledge gained directly supports future forensic practice in disaster victim identification (DVI), migrant identification, medico-legal investigations, and international humanitarian missions.
Participant Materials include:
Target Audience (Forensic Discipline):
Knowledge Level:
Price:
50 €
Step in the shoes of a virtual detective
Chair/ Co – chair:
Sierd Waanders, Technologies for Criminal Investigations (TCI), Police Academy of The Netherlands and Saxion University of Applied Sciences, Apeldoorn, Gelderland, The Netherlands
Kars Waanders, Technologies for Criminal Investigations (TCI), Police Academy of The Netherlands and Saxion University of Applied Sciences, Apeldoorn, Gelderland, The Netherlands
Instructors/ Presenters:
Sierd Waanders, Technologies for Criminal Investigations (TCI), Police Academy of The Netherlands and Saxion University of Applied Sciences
Kars Waanders, Technologies for Criminal Investigations (TCI), Police Academy of The Netherlands and Saxion University of Applied Sciences
Program Description:
This interactive workshop offers a comprehensive introduction to the principles and practices of 3D reconstruction, a transformative technology for creating precise digital models from physical objects and environments. Participants will move beyond theory to gain hands-on experience in the complete pipeline, from data acquisition to the generation of high-fidelity 3D assets. A central focus of the session will be on mastering Gaussian splatting, a cutting-edge rendering technique that is revolutionizing the field by enabling real-time, photorealistic visualizations with unprecedented detail and efficiency.
We will specifically explore the powerful application of these technologies within forensic research. In this critical domain, accuracy and clarity are paramount. This workshop will demonstrate how 3D reconstructions, enhanced by Gaussian splatting, provide an unparalleled tool for evidence documentation, analysis, and presentation. Attendees will learn to create immersive, navigable virtual reality (VR) crime scenes that allow for meticulous examination from any perspective, without the constraints of a physical site.
Key learning outcomes include understanding the fundamentals of 3D data capture, processing scan data into robust models, and implementing Gaussian splatting for superior visual output. Furthermore, we will cover best practices for transitioning these models into VR environments for forensic application, facilitating more effective collaboration, courtroom demonstrations, and investigative insights. This workshop is designed for researchers, forensic professionals, and technologists seeking to leverage state-of-the-art digital tools to advance the rigor and impact of their work in evidence visualization and analysis.
Program outline:
| Title | Description | Time | |
| What is TCI | Explanation of the research group TCI | 15 minutes | |
| What is the current problem on a crime scene? | Explanation of the problem | 5 minutes | |
| What is the solution? | Explanation of how 3D reconstruction can solve the problem | 10 minutes | |
| How to make a 3D reconstruction? | Explanation of creating a 3D reconstruction and showcasing some of them | 10 minutes | |
| From 3D reconstruction to VR | How to go from a reconstruction to VR and showcasing the VR environment, participants can also experience it. | 30 minutes | |
| Break | Participants can take a break for coffee, or experience the VR enviroment | 15 minutes | |
| Narrative Approach | Explanation of narrative approach so they can use to solve the 3D reconstructed crime scene. | 5 minutes | |
| The assignment | The participants will solve a 3D reconstructed crime scene using the narrative approach method | 30 minutes | |
| Total duration | 2 hours | ||
Learning Objectives:
Practical and Educational Value:
This workshop offers participants an introduction to 3D reconstruction and related visualization methods, with a strong emphasis on hands-on experience. Participants will actively experience creating and exploring a 3D reconstruction (including VR) so they can judge its value and feasibility for applying similar workflows in their own forensic or research practice.
Target Audience: Mainly the forensic discipline, but all disciplines are welcome
Knowledge Level:
Basic
Price:
50 €
Insect Rearing in Forensic Entomology
Chair/ Co – chair:
Assoc. Prof. Halide Nihal Açıkgöz, Forensic Biology Department, Ankara University, Türkiye
Instructors/ Presenters:
Assoc. Prof. Halide Nihal Açıkgöz, Institute of Forensic Sciences, Forensic Biology Department, Ankara University, Türkiye
Buse Yılmaz, M.Sc. Candidate Institute of Forensic Sciences, Forensic Biology Department, Ankara University, Türkiye
Program Description:
This workshop provides an overview of insect rearing methods used in forensic entomology, focusing on forensically important blowfly (Calliphoridae) species that are among the earliest colonizers of a cadaver. Participants will be guided through the entire workflow: data collection from the crime scene and laboratory-based rearing protocols under controlled conditions. The workshop provides best practices for methodology, standardization of rearing procedures, and their impact on the reliability of post-mortem interval (PMI) estimation.
Program outline:
| Instructors | Topic | Description | Duration |
| Halide Nihal AÇIKGÖZ & Buse YILMAZ | Introduction Session | Each participant will chat with the participant sitting next to them, get information about him/her and introduce each other to the class. | 30 min |
| Buse YILMAZ | Forensic Entomology | Introduction to the definition and application of forensic entomology. | 20 min |
| Halide Nihal AÇIKGÖZ | Crime Scene Investigation I – Ecological data collection | From arrival at the scene: Best practice in collection of ecological data and entomological samples. | 25 min |
| Coffee Break 10 minutes | |||
| Halide Nihal AÇIKGÖZ | Crime Scene Investigation II – Sampling strategies | From arrival at the scene: Best practice in collection of ecological data and entomological samples. | 25 min |
| Halide Nihal AÇIKGÖZ | Rearing Methods I – Principles | Key considerations and procedures for feeding and rearing blowflies and Coleoptera species. Written material will be provided. | 20 min |
| Coffee Break 10 minutes | |||
| Halide Nihal AÇIKGÖZ | Rearing Methods II – Practical considerations | Key considerations and procedures for feeding and rearing blowflies and Coleoptera species. Written material will be provided. | 20 min |
| Buse YILMAZ & Halide Nihal AÇIKGÖZ | Practical Application Session | Hands-on application session based on previous topics. | 90 min |
Participant Prerequisites
Learning Objectives:
Identify key forensic insect groups relevant to PMI estimation. Apply standardized methods for collecting entomological evidence at crime scenes. Establish appropriate environmental conditions for rearing Diptera and Coleoptera species. Recognize factors affecting larval development and survival in laboratory settings. Evaluate the importance of insect rearing data for reliable forensic interpretations.
Practical and Educational Value:
At the end of the workshop, participants are equipped with practical skills directly applicable to forensic casework and laboratory work. By using improved larval rearing protocols, they can perform any analysis based on larval development in the laboratory. The information they acquire enhances the accuracy and reliability of forensic entomological analyses and supports forensic scientists’ evidence-based applications.
Participant Materials:
Short digital and/or printed materials with practical value
Certificate of Completion:
Yes
Target audience:
Forensic entomologists, Crime scene investigators, Forensic biology practitioners, Graduate students in forensic sciences
Knowledge Level:
Intermediate
Price:
50 €
Suspected physical child abuse: the power of collaboration.
Chair/ Co – chair:
Judith Fronczek
Participant prerequisites:
Advise to bring phone with internet access for participation in interactive poll
Program outline:
Learning Objectives:
Practical and Educational Value:
Materials: digital relevant papers will be made available for participants
Target audience: pathologists, radiologists, clinicians (paediatricians), medical students
Knowledge Level:
Beginner/intermediate
Price:
Free
Sudden, Unexpected and Violent Deaths: Integrating Scene Investigation, Autopsy, Laboratory Findings and Legal Determination
Chair/ Co – chair:
Professor Dr Nikolas P. Lemos
Forensic Toxicologist
Director, Cameron Forensic Medical Sciences
Queen Mary University of London
United Kingdom
HM Senior Coroner for Inner West London Professor Dr Fiona Wilcox
Cameron Forensic Medical Sciences
Queen Mary University of London
United Kingdom
Instructors/ Presenters:
Dr Vincent Trancida
Forensic Pathologist King County, Seattle, Washington USA
Honorary Senior Lecturer
Cameron Forensic Medical Sciences
Queen Mary University of London
United Kingdom
HM Senior Coroner for Inner West London Professor Dr Fiona Wilcox
Cameron Forensic Medical Sciences
Queen Mary University of London
United Kingdom
Professor Dr Nikolas P. Lemos
Forensic Toxicologist
Director, Cameron Forensic Medical Sciences
Queen Mary University of London
United Kingdom
Program Description:
Sudden, unexpected and violent deaths present some of the most challenging cases in medico-legal practice. Determining the cause and manner of death requires the careful interpretation of evidence generated across multiple stages of investigation, including scene examination, post-mortem examination, laboratory analysis, and legal review.
Despite advances in forensic science, misinterpretation can occur when evidence from these stages is evaluated in isolation rather than within a totality-of-evidence framework. Effective death investigation therefore depends on close collaboration between forensic scientists, forensic pathologists, and legal authorities.
This multidisciplinary workshop brings together three experienced professionals representing key components of the medico-legal system: a forensic pathologist, a forensic toxicologist, and a senior coroner. The workshop will explore how evidence is generated, interpreted, and communicated at different stages of the investigative process.
The session will begin with a comparative discussion of how sudden and unexplained deaths are investigated in different medico-legal systems, focusing on the United Kingdom coronial system and the United States medical examiner/coroner systems. This comparison will highlight structural differences in investigative authority, the role of forensic specialists, and the pathways by which scientific findings contribute to legal determinations.
The workshop will then examine four key stages of the forensic investigative pathway:
Through expert presentations and an interactive case-based discussion, participants will explore how evidence evolves during complex death investigations and how multidisciplinary collaboration supports scientifically and legally defensible conclusions.
Program outline:
10 min
Welcome and workshop overview
Prof Nikolas P. Lemos and Prof Fiona Wilcox
20 min
Comparative Medico-Legal Systems: Investigating Sudden Deaths in the UK and USA
Presentations and Discussion of diPerences between the UK coronial system and US medical examiner
systems.
Prof Fiona Wilcox and Dr Vincent Trancida
25 min
The Scene: Investigating Sudden and Violent Deaths
What information needs to be extracted from the scene.
The importance of investigative context and scene findings.
Panel
25 min
The Autopsy: Establishing Cause and Mechanism of Death
Autopsy findings and limitations in sudden or unexplained deaths.
Dr Vincent Trancida
10 min
Break
25 min
The Laboratory: Interpreting Toxicology and Analytical Evidence
Interpretation of toxicological findings in death investigation.
Prof Nikolas P. Lemos
25 min
The Courtroom: Evaluating Forensic Evidence in Legal Proceedings
How scientific findings are assessed within the coronial and judicial process.
Prof Fiona Wilcox
30 min
Interactive Case Study
Participants examine a complex death investigation and discuss interpretation of evidence from the scene, autopsy and laboratory.
Facilitated by all speakers.
10 min
Panel Discussion and Closing Remarks
Learning Objectives:
By the end of the workshop participants will be able to:
Practical and Educational Value:
Participants will gain practical insight into how forensic evidence is interpreted and synthesised across multiple stages of death investigation. By examining the progression of a case from scene investigation through autopsy, laboratory analysis and legal determination, the workshop will illustrate the strengths and limitations of each forensic discipline. The session will also provide valuable perspective on differences between international medico-legal systems, highlighting how structural and procedural diPerences influence forensic practice. The workshop emphasises multidisciplinary collaboration, critical interpretation of evidence, and effective communication between forensic practitioners and legal authorities—skills essential for accurate and defensible medico-legal conclusions.
Participants will receive:
Provided digitally.
Target Audience
This workshop is intended for professionals involved in medico-legal death investigation, including:
The workshop is relevant to multiple forensic disciplines.
Knowledge Level:
Intermediate
Price:
50 €
Artificial Intelligence assisted Age Estimation and Injury Interpretation: AI tools Revolutionizing and Transforming medicolegal examination.
Chair/ Co – chair:
Dr. Nilesh Tumram, Professor and Head
Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology
Jannayak Birsa Munda Government Medical College, Nandurbar, Maharashtra, India/
Dr. Manoj B. Parchake Professor and Head
Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology,
All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, India
Instructors/ Presenters:
Dr. Nilesh Tumram, Professor and Head Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Jannayak Birsa Munda Government Medical College, Nandurbar, Maharashtra, India
Dr. Manoj B. Parchake, Professor and Head Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, AIIMS Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, India
Dr Shashank Tyagi, Associate Professor Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, India
Dr Navneet Ateriya, Associate Professor, Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, AIIMS Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, India
Program Description:
Forensic examinations frequently require age estimation and injury interpretation, both of which traditionally depend on observer experience and subjective judgment. Modern medico-legal scrutiny demands reproducibility and objective documentation.
This workshop demonstrates how accessible artificial intelligence (AI) tools — including web-based and mobile applications — can assist in analyzing radiological images and injury photographs. Participants will learn structured workflows and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for AI-assisted forensic assessment, documentation, and reporting.
Hands-on training will be provided using:
The workshop also addresses limitations, ethical considerations, and medico-legal admissibility to ensure responsible and defensible implementation.
Session | Content | Presenter |
Introduction | Basics of AI; mobile-based AI tools; capabilities & limitations; Scope of AI in forensic practice | Dr Nilesh Tumram and Dr Manoj Parchake |
Fundamentals of AI | Demo of available tools/models (mobile/online) + short Q&A. strengths & limitations | Dr Manoj Parchake |
AI-Assisted Age Estimation | OPG & skeletal radiographs with additional clinical data like anthropological or secondary sexual-character. | Dr Manoj Parchake |
Break | — |
|
AI for Adult Injury Interpretation | Blunt, sharp, patterned, and burn injuries; hands-on analysis using mobile AI; SOP for injury image capturing | Dr Nilesh Tumram |
AI for Pediatric & Complex Injuries assessment | Accidental vs. inflicted injuries; child abuse indicators; sops for injury documentation. | Dr Nilesh Tumram |
Hands-On Session | Practical activity: participants work on sample OPG/X-ray , injury and clinical examination data using a selected AI tool. | Dr Manoj Parchake and Dr Shashank Tyagi |
Comparative Evaluation, Discussion, Ethics & Admissibility | Compare pre-trained vs trainable models; discuss limitations, ethics, forensic implications, Reliability, bias, legal concerns | Dr Nilesh Tumram and Dr Navneet Ateriya |
Wrap-Up | Key takeaways; distribution of SOPs/resources; feedback; vote of thanks. | Dr Shashank Tyagi and Dr Navneet ateriya |
Participant Prerequisites
Learning Objectives:
By the end of the workshop, participants will be able to:
Practical and Educational Value:
Participants will gain practical skills directly applicable to routine medicolegal work. The workshop promotes standardized documentation, reduces subjective variability, and improves efficiency in case examination. It also prepares practitioners for future AI-assisted forensic reporting and encourages collaborative research.
Participants will receive:
Target Audience:
Forensic discipline (General forensic practitioners, Forensic pathologists etc.) and all disciplines related to forensic work.
Knowledge Level:
Intermediate – Basic understanding of medicolegal examination and radiology recommended.
Price:
50 €
Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) : Principles, Protocols, and Practice
Chair/ Co – chair:
Eddy De Valck, D.D.S, Director Science ETAF DVI, Belgium
Sven Benthaus, D.D.S, Director ETAF DVI, Germany
Instructors/ Presenters:
Sven Benthaus, ETAF DVI
Christian Decobecq, ETAF DVI
Rebeca Iglesias Dominguez, Independant consultant
Marta Garazdiuk, Bucovinian State Medical University, Ukraine
Eddy De Valck, ETAF DVI
Miles Manning, Family Liaison Services, UK
Ersi Kalfoglou, Ankara Medipol University, Turkey
David Petretei, Hungarian Police
Program Description:
This workshop offers an in-depth exploration of Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) processes as outlined by INTERPOL standards, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration and international best practices.
teaching approach
Participants will examine the key phases of DVI — scene investigation, postmortem examination, antemortem data collection, reconciliation, and reporting — through interactive discussions.
applied focus
Using real-world examples the workshop will teach participants the knowledge and skills required to operate effectively in high-pressure DVI environments.
Learning Objectives and Practical and Educational Value:
Target audience:
This workshop addresses to forensic scientists, pathologists, odontologists, anthropologists, police and civil protection personnel, legal experts, and humanitarian responders involved in mass fatality response and identification work.
Knowledge Level:
Basic / Intermediate / Advanced
Price:
50 €
Technology Meets Humanity to Advance Forensic Nursing Education Globally
Chair/ Co – chair:
Jamie Ferrell, Director Forensic Nursing Services, Memorial Hermann Health System, Houston, Texas USA
Instructors/ Presenters:
Jamie Ferrell, MBA, BSN, RN, SANE-A, SANE-P, DF-IAFN, FAAFS Director Forensic Nursing Services, Memorial Hermann Health System, Houston, Texas USA Anna Lisa de Joya, PT, DSc Associate Vice President, Clinical Education Memorial Hermann Health System, Houston, Texas USA Lynda D. Benak, MSN, RN, CPHRM Professor Nursing Education Vancouver, Washington USA
Program Description:
The global nursing workforce challenges continue to significantly impact recruitment, education, and retention within the forensic nursing specialty. As forensic nursing practice grows increasingly complex, the need for innovative, scalable, and effective educational strategies has never been more critical. Emerging technologies offer an unprecedented opportunity to transform how forensic science professionals are trained while ensuring consistency, competence, and compassion in care delivery. This workshop presents an AI enhanced virtual reality (VR) simulation platform designed to revolutionize forensic nursing education through immersive, high-fidelity, facilitator-free training environments that replicate real-world clinical scenarios. These simulations integrate trauma-informed, compassionate communication with clinically rigorous scenarios addressing violence, injury, and evidence preservation. Learners engage in realistic, risk-free environments that strengthen clinical judgment, technical proficiency, and ethical responsibility while honoring the vulnerability and dignity of those they serve. Artificial intelligence provides personalized, adaptive learning pathways by analyzing user performance and tailoring feedback to individual learning needs. Advanced gaming technologies further enhance engagement and retention, allowing forensic professionals to refine skills in evidence identification, documentation, and preservation. Research demonstrates that VR-based education surpasses traditional teaching methods in advancing theoretical knowledge, clinical proficiency, and learner satisfaction, making it a powerful tool for modern forensic nursing science education. Performance data analytics form the foundation of this educational paradigm by continuously monitoring clinical metrics to identify strengths, learning gaps, and opportunities for improvement. This data-driven approach standardizes educational quality, assures clinical competence, reduces variability in care practices, and strengthens patient safety. As a supplemental teaching modality, VR simulation supports mastery of critical clinical skills while promoting consistency across training programs. Beyond forensic nursing, this workshop highlights how AI-enhanced VR education serves as a transferable model for other forensic science disciplines. Its scalability, accessibility, and adaptability allow for global implementation, enabling continuous professional development regardless of geographic or resource limitations. Participants will explore how these technologies can unify education standards, strengthen workforce sustainability, and foster innovation across forensic sciences worldwide. Immersive VR training represents a transformative advancement in forensic science education — one that not only enhances technical excellence but also reinforces the profession’s ethical responsibility to provide care grounded in compassion, dignity, and respect. At a time of increasing skepticism and concern surrounding technology and its place in our future society, this educational model affirms that technology is not a replacement for human connection, but a catalyst that strengthens compassion, clinical excellence, and the dignity-centered care that defines forensic science practices.
Program outline:
10 min – Welcome/Introductions
Jamie Ferrell, MBA, BSN, RN, SANE-A, SANE-P, DF-IAFN, FAAFS
50 min – Global workforce challenges affecting recruitment, education, and retention.
Jamie Ferrell, MBA, BSN, RN, SANE-A, SANE-P, DF-IAFN, FAAFS
60 min – Foster Engagement, Knowledge Retention and Learner Satisfaction by integrating Advanced Gaming Technologies with AI and VR Technologies to enhance efficiency, competence, and quality.
Lynda D. Benak, MSN, RN, CPHRM
30 min BREAK
45 min – Transferable Model to All Disciplines; Unbiased Clinical Metrics Identify
Strengths, Learning Gaps, and Improvement Opportunities; Standardizes Educational Quality,
Competence, Care Practices, and Strengthen Victim/Survivor Safety
Anna Lisa de Joya, PT, DSc
45 min – Workshop Attendees Interactive Session with Technology and Analytics Data
Jamie Ferrell, Lynda D. Benak, and Anna Lisa de Joya
Learning Objectives:
Examine global workforce challenges affecting recruitment, education, and retention within forensic nursing and related forensic science disciplines and identify how technology-enhanced education can mitigate barriers. Describe how artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and performance data analytics can be integrated to enhance clinical competence, efficiency, consistency, and quality of forensic science practices. Demonstrate how immersive, trauma-informed simulation environments strengthen compassionate communication, clinical reasoning, evidence identification, and preservation skills across diverse patient populations. Analyze the role of performance data analytics in driving continuous quality improvement, standardization of education, and assurance of clinical competency. Apply this educational model as a scalable framework that can be adapted for training across multiple forensic science disciplines and global healthcare systems.
Practical and Educational Value:
This workshop will demonstrate how artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and performance data analytics can be integrated into forensic science education to create scalable, trauma-informed, and competency-based training models that strengthen clinical excellence, workforce sustainability, and patient-centered care. Participants will explore how emerging educational technologies can transform forensic nursing education while serving as a transferable framework for innovation across all forensic science disciplines globally.
Target audience: Forensic Nursing Science Discipline & Forensic Medicine
Knowledge Level:
All levels
Price:
50 €
Beyond the Spectrum: SpectrApp Software for Advanced Chemometric and Machine Learning Analysis in Forensic Science
Chair/ Co – chair:
Prof. Eugenio Alladio – Department of Chemistry, University of Turin, Founder and CEO of Databloom S.r.l., Turin, Italy;
Ten. Col. Pietro Maida – Carabinieri RIS Messina, Italy
Instructors/ Presenters:
Prof. Eugenio Alladio – University of Turin & Databloom S.r.l., Turin, Italy Ten. Col. Pietro Maida – Carabinieri RIS Messina, Italy
Program Description:
This workshop provides a comprehensive, hands-on introduction to chemometric and machine learning methods for the analysis of analytical chemistry data in forensic science contexts. Participants will learn how to import, preprocess, explore, and classify spectral data using SpectrApp, a freeware software platform developed for educational and research purposes. The teaching approach combines short theoretical introductions with guided practical exercises using real and simulated forensic datasets. Emphasis is placed on methodological rigor, reproducibility, and the interpretability of results. The workshop also covers analytical method validation workflows through a companion open-source tool. Ten. Col. Pietro Maida (Carabinieri RIS Messina) will contribute operational forensic perspectives and case-based examples, bridging the gap between academic chemometric methods and real-world forensic practice.
Program Outline
Block 1 (60 min) – Foundations and data import
Block 2 (60 min) – Preprocessing and exploratory analysis
Break (15-20 min)
Block 3 (60 min) – Classification and Model Validation
Block 4 (30-40 min) – Validation tools and wrap-up
Participant Prerequisites
Learning Objectives:
Practical and Educational Value:
The workshop equips participants with immediately transferable skills and tools for their forensic practice. All software demonstrated is freely available, ensuring that participants can continue to check and test the methods in their own laboratories after the workshop. The combination of academic rigor and operational forensic experience ensures that the content is both scientifically sound and practically relevant. Participants will leave with a working knowledge of chemometric and ML workflows applicable to a wide range of forensic evidence types.
Participants will receive:
Target Audience:
Forensic scientists, data analysts, laboratory analysts, and researchers working with spectroscopic (but not only) data in forensic applications (e.g., questioned documents, illicit drugs, fibers, fire debris, trace evidence). Open to all forensic disciplines with an interest in chemometric and machine learning approaches.
Knowledge Level:
Basic to Intermediate. No prior experience with chemometrics or machine learning is required. Basic familiarity with spectroscopic data (e.g., IR, Raman, UV-Vis, NIR) is beneficial but not mandatory.
Price:
50 €
Safeguarding Integrity in the Forensic Laboratories
Chair/ Co – chair:
Dr Angeline Yap, Assistant Group Director, Applied Sciences Group, Health Sciences Authority, Singapore
Instructors/ Presenters:
Mr Ben Painter, Principal Specialist Chemist, Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission, Australia
Dr Conor Crean, Scientific Affairs Officer, Laboratory and Scientific Services, Drugs, Laboratory and Scientific Services Branch, Division for Policy Analysis and Public Affairs, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime
Program Description:
This half-day workshop introduces the newly-released UNODC handbook on “Safeguarding Integrity and Quality in Forensic Drug Laboratories”. The session is designed to equip forensic laboratory professionals, managers and stakeholders with practical tools and frameworks to strengthen integrity, ensure the reliability of analytical results, and uphold the highest standards within their organisations. Through interactive discussions and real-world case studies, participants will gain actionable insights and best practice guidance for implementing robust integrity measures in their own laboratories.
Program Outline
Part | Topic | Content | Duration |
1 | Workshop Introduction | Overview of objectives, introduction to the UNODC handbook, housekeeping and participant expectations. | 10 min |
2 | Highlighting the importance of integrity in the forensic laboratory | Presentation and facilitated discussion on why integrity is fundamental to forensic science. | 30 min |
3 | Ensuring quality and protecting integrity through applying risk-based frameworks and standardised protocols | Exploring quality management, risk assessment, and the implementation of standardised protocols. | 30 min |
4 | Cultivating a workplace with an integrity-focussed mindset | Discussion on building a workplace culture that prioritises integrity. | 20 min |
5 | Considerations when responding to potential breaches of integrity | Guidance on recognising, reporting, and managing potential breaches, as well as developing effective response protocols. | 20 min |
6 | Exploring the reasons for integrity breaches through a case example | Analysis of a real-world scenario to identify root causes and preventative strategies. | 20 min |
7 | Applying new and emerging technologies to ensure integrity | Overview of new and emerging technologies that may support integrity in forensic labs. | 10 min |
8 | Workshop Summary and Conclusions | Review of key lessons and emphasis on leadership roles in the forensic labs. | 10 min |
Learning Objectives:
Practical and Educational Value:
Participants will receive digital handouts, checklists, and link to UNODC handbook for future reference.
Target Audience: All disciplines (forensic laboratory staff, quality managers, laboratory directors, legal professionals involved in forensic processes, and policymakers responsible for oversight of forensic science services).
Knowledge Level:
Basic to intermediate
Price:
50 €
Improving Drink-Spiking Detection: Research Insights and Real-World Applications
Chair/ Co – chair:
Dr Lata Gautam, Associate Professor in Forensic Science, Anglia Ruskin University
Dr Jo Dawkins, Associate Professor in Criminology and Forensic Science and Director of Education for the School of Criminology, Sociology and Social Policy, University of Leicester
Instructors/ Presenters:
Dr Agatha Grela, Senior Lecturer in Forensic Science, Anglia Ruskin University
Dr Lata Gautam, Associate Professor in Forensic Science, Anglia Ruskin University
Program Description:
Scope – This workshop explores current research and educational approaches aimed at improving awareness, detection, and responses to drink spiking. It covers findings from Drink Aware Monitor – national surveys in 2022, 2023 and 2025, laboratory evaluation of commercially available testing kits, and the development of an educational toolkit designed to improve awareness, reporting, and responses to drink spiking.
Teaching approach – The workshop will combine three short presentations with interactive activities. Key concepts and research findings will first be introduced using PowerPoint slides and interactive quizzes using Mentimeter or Kahoot.
We will also demonstrate how exemplar drink-spiking detection kits operate. Participants will have the opportunity to test the kits themselves using their own drinks, allowing them to experience the usability of the devices, interpret the results, and consider practical limitations in real-world settings. In addition, products designed to act as drink covers will be displayed and briefly discussed.
Participants will then be provided with a QR code to access the educational toolkit on drink spiking, along with guidance on how the resources can be used and adapted in different contexts.
At the end of the session, participants will be invited to provide feedback via a QR-code survey and, if they wish, share their views on different types of drink-spiking detection and protection approaches discussed during the workshop.
Applied focus – This workshop focuses on the practical application of research findings to improve understanding and responses to drink spiking. Participants will gain insight into the capabilities and limitations of currently available detection kits and will experience how these tools function in practice. The session will also introduce an educational toolkit designed to support awareness-raising. By sharing evidence from surveys, laboratory evaluations, and educational initiatives, the workshop aims to support participants in applying this knowledge within their own professional, educational, or community contexts to enhance awareness, informed decision-making, and coordinated responses to suspected drink spiking incidents.
Programme Outline
5 mins – Welcome and Workshop Objectives
Dr Lata Gautam (Chair)
5 mins – Speaker Introductions
Dr Jo Dawkins (Co-Chair)
20 mins – Understanding Drink Spiking: Insights from Drinkaware Monitor Surveys
Dr Agatha Grela
Group Activity:
Small-group discussion on barriers to reporting and responding to drink spiking
20 mins – Evaluating Drink Spiking Detection Kits: Usability and Awareness
Dr Lata Gautam
10 mins – Break
20 mins – Interactive Activity: Testing Kits and Drink Protection Measures
Facilitators: Dr Lata Gautam and Dr Agatha Grela
Discussion question: If it were up to you, would you choose a drink-spiking detection kit or a protective measure for yourself?
15 mins – From Insight to Action: Educational Toolkit for Drink Spiking
Dr Lata Gautam
10 mins – Participant questions and facilitator responses (Chair-Led)
5 mins – Concluding Thoughts, Dr Jo Dawkins (Co-Chair)
Participant Prerequisites
Learning Objectives:
Practical and Educational Value:
This workshop provides participants with a practical overview of currently available drink testing kits and the evidence surrounding their reliability and usability. By examining how different kits and products perform across a wide range of beverages and real-world conditions, attendees will gain a clearer understanding of the strengths and limitations of these kits.
The session will also introduce a freely available educational toolkit designed to support teaching, awareness-raising, and prevention initiatives. Participants will leave with resources and evidence-based insights that can be used in educational settings, community engagement, and professional training related to drink spiking.
Participants will receive all materials, including slides and the toolkit, in digital format.
Target Audience:
All forensic disciplines
Knowledge Level:
Basic
Price:
50 €
Human Rights in Digital Healthcare: Leveraging Blockchain and Federated Learning
Chair/ Co – chair:
Ana Corte-Real, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
Instructors/ Presenters:
Ana Corte-Real, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
Paulo Rupino da Cunha (Online, it will depend on the day and hour) University of Coimbra, CISUC/LASI, DEI, Coimbra, Portugal
Program Description:
Scope: The healthcare sector is undergoing a massive shift towards distributed digital platforms for clinical data management and collaborative research. This workshop explores how the convergence of Federated Learning (FL) and Blockchain (BC) technology can secure health data governance while preserving fundamental human rights and patient privacy. FL enables collaborative machine learning by bringing the model to the data, ensuring sensitive patient records never leave the institution. However, FL alone lacks auditability and is vulnerable to adversarial attacks like model poisoning. BC mitigates this by acting as an immutable, transparent audit layer, ensuring verifiable data provenance, consent management, and tamper-evident logging of model updates.
Teaching Approach: The workshop utilizes a highly interactive, mixed approach. Instead of focusing on technical deployment, it blends theoretical overviews of decentralized AI architectures with interactive case-based discussions focusing on legal and ethical tensions. We will examine complex regulatory conflicts through real-world scenarios, such as the friction between BC’s immutability and the GDPR’s “right to erasure” (Article 17), the EU AI Act’s classification of medical AI as high-risk systems, and compliance with HIPAA, APPI, and LGPD frameworks.
Applied Focus: Participants will learn to evaluate hybrid BC-FL infrastructures and apply these concepts to digital forensic investigations. Through interactive group analysis, the focus will be on auditing medical data breaches, tracking the chain of custody for health data, and ensuring algorithmic transparency and human oversight in AI-driven healthcare.
Programme Outline:
Learning Objectives:
Practical and Educational Value:
This workshop provides forensic practitioners, legal experts, and health IT professionals with the foundational knowledge necessary to investigate and analyze modern decentralized healthcare infrastructures. Participants will engage in active problem-solving, leaving equipped to ensure that future digital medicine innovations remain compliant with universal human rights.
Participant Materials:
Digital PDF copies of the presentation slide decks, case study summaries comparing transnational regulations (GDPR vs. HIPAA vs. LGPD), and reference diagrams of BC-FL hybrid architectures.
Certificate of Completion:
Yes.
Participant Prerequisites:
Basic understanding of data privacy concepts or digital forensics is recommended but not mandatory
Target Audience:
All Disciplines (Highly relevant for digital forensic practitioners, law experts, ethicists and health data managers)
Knowledge Level:
Intermediate
Price:
50 €
Decoding Alcohol in Forensics: Metabolic Pathways, Congeners, Genetic Influences, and Extrapolations in Legal Contexts
Chair/ Co – chair:
Ashraf Mozayani, PharmD., Ph.D., F-ABFT
Department of Administration of Justice, Texas Southern University, Houston, Texas, USA
Dimitri Gerostamoulos, Ph.D.
Forensic Science Department, Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, Melbourne, Australia
Instructors/ Presenters:
Ersi Kalfoglou, Ph.D.
Department of Legal Medicine, Ankara Medipol University, Ankara, Turkey
Maha Almazroua, Ph.D.
Forensic Toxicology Centre, Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia
Aybike Dip, Ph.D.
Forensic Consultant, International Forensic Science Consultants, Adana, Turkey
Ashraf Mozayani, PharmD., Ph.D., F-ABFT
Texas Southern University, USA
Dimitri Gerostamoulos, Ph.D.
Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, Australia
Program Description:
This half-day workshop examines the complex science of alcohol metabolism, including its metabolites, congeners, and the emerging role of genetics in forensic investigations. Participants will explore both traditional methodologies and cutting-edge analytical techniques that are transforming alcohol-related casework.
The workshop integrates biochemical pathways of ethanol metabolism, the forensic relevance of congeners (e.g., methanol, fusel alcohols, tannins), and genetic polymorphisms affecting alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) and aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) enzymes. Special emphasis will be placed on blood alcohol concentration (BAC) interpretation, extrapolation challenges, post-mortem toxicology considerations, and courtroom presentation of scientific evidence.
Through expert-led sessions and real-world case analyses, participants will gain practical tools to interpret alcohol, metabolite, congener, and genetic findings in both criminal and civil contexts.
Program Outline
Welcome and Workshop Overview (10 minutes)
Chairs: Prof. Dr. Dimitri Gerostamoulos & Dr. Ashraf Mozayani
Welcome remarks
Overview of workshop objectives and structure
1. Alcohol Metabolism: From Ethanol to Acetaldehyde and Beyond (25 minutes)
Presenters: Dr. Aybike Dip & Prof. Dr. Ashraf Mozayani
Biochemical pathways of ethanol metabolism
Formation and detection of acetaldehyde, EtG, and EtS
Biological matrices and laboratory reporting considerations
2. Congeners: Their Role in Alcohol and Forensic Toxicology (25 minutes)
Presenters: Dr. Aybike Dip & Dr. Maha Almazroua
Definition and classification of congeners
Methanol intoxication and illicit alcohol
Post-mortem implications
3. BAC Extrapolation: Science and Legal Challenges (25 minutes)
Presenters: Prof. Dr. Dimitri Gerostamoulos & Prof Dr. Ashraf Mozayani
Widmark principles and pharmacokinetics
Retrograde extrapolation
Courtroom limitations and cross-examination challenges
4. Genetic Insights in Alcohol Metabolism and Forensic Applications (25 minutes)
Presenter: Prof. Dr. Ersi Kalfoglou
ADH and ALDH polymorphisms
Population variability
Forensic interpretation implications
5. Integrated Case Studies in Alcohol-Related Forensic Investigations (45 minutes)
Presenters: All faculty
Criminal and civil case examples
Integrated toxicology and genetic interpretation
Discussion of evidentiary challenges
6. Interactive Panel Discussion & Audience Q&A (25 minutes)
Complex case scenarios
Participant questions
Expert panel discussion
Participant Prerequisites:
Learning Objectives:
At the end of the workshop, participants will be able to:
Practical and Educational Value:
This workshop provides practice-oriented guidance for forensic professionals handling alcohol-related cases. Participants will gain:
Target Audience:
Forensic toxicologists, forensic pathologists, legal medicine practitioners, drug analysts, laboratory scientists, quality assurance professionals, medico-legal investigators, law enforcement personnel, attorneys, and forensic educators are involved in alcohol-related casework.
Knowledge Level:
Intermediate
Price:
50 €
What process mapping can do for your lab: Standardization, AI innovation, and Best practices
Chair/ Co – chair:
Heather Waltke, MFS, MPH; NIST Associate to the Special Programs Office; Abu Dhabi, UAE
Instructors/ Presenters:
Melissa Taylor; Senior Forensic Science Research Manager within the Special Programs Office at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST); United States
Dana Delger, JD; Consultant to the Forensic Science Standards Program at NIST; Sweden
Dr. Niki Osborne; The New Zealand Institute for Public Health and Forensic (PHF) Science; New Zealand
Program Description:
The forensic science community is comprised of numerous disciplines and subdisciplines, and as there is often no central regulator telling managers, analysts and other personnel exactly how to perform tasks, many struggle with questions such as: understanding the full extent of their task, processes, and system; whether they have the right analytical methods and technologies; whether they have the right people (and in the right roles, with the right information, and the right skills); and how to best communicate the work that has been done. As greater amounts of forensic evidence is being submitted to labs, and expected to be processed quicky, not knowing the answers to these questions can be an impediment to assessing whether laboratories are effectively utilizing technology, whether they could be operating more efficiently, whether standards in use are appropriate, and where processes can be improved through technologies including AI.
Since 2010, NIST, through its Office of Scientific Area Committees (OSAC), has been developing process maps across a unique cross-section of disciplines including Human DNA, CSI, Firearms and Toolmarks Footwear and Tire, Latent Prints, and more. Since then, the maps have been useful in ways such as auditing tools for the evaluation of standards and best practices, to assess the potential for use of technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) in forensic science, and to locate areas for increasing in laboratory efficiency. As such, this workshop will draw show the how, where, who and why of process mapping but allow the workshop to showcase how map development and results can benefit the forensic science community.
Through the use of process maps, the students will delve into each of the above perspectives both through presentations and hands on work and sharing of results; focusing primarily on end users such as forensic science practitioners, lawyers, and others who will ultimately forensic science outputs. It will draw on lessons learned from building previous process maps to identify important areas such as QA/QC, SOPs, human factors, and existing standards in terms of ways to strengthen efficiency and potentially utilize AI in system development. The workshop will also touch upon relevant legal lessons from the American experience so far in both process mapping and their use for AI and other emerging technologies.
The scope of the program is diverse. It will take in lessons from the process mapping experience in numerous disciplines of forensics apply those lessons to standardization and the potential for AI development. The teaching approach will be primarily lecture based but include participation to allow all to benefit from shared experiences. The applied focus is on the recognition of process maps as an important tool in building national/international standards, laboratory SOPs, recognizing human factors related issues, and the development of AI in forensics.
Program Outline
Learning Objectives:
Practical and Educational Value:
Participants will leave this workshop with a better understanding of why process maps are helpful, including how they can begin to map at the discipline or laboratory level; how maps can assist in the evaluation of training and current practices; how human factors in forensic science can be recognized through mapping; and how process maps can help in use case development for AI based practices within the forensic system. Finally, they will also gain an understanding of areas that may need strengthening within existing methods.
Relevant process maps, use case cards, and human factors materials will be shared digitally with participants.
Target Audience:
Forensic scientists in all disciplines, software developers, QA/QC personnel, laboratory management, and lawyers.
Knowledge Level:
Basic. This workshop is suitable for those new to considering process mapping at the lab or system level including: their use in the development of potential AI assistance, development of best practices, improvement of QA/QC methods, etc. but will also offer new insights to more experienced practitioners to help expand more activities to include AI.
Price:
50 €
From Isolated Digital Traces to Investigative Interpretation
Chair/ Co – chair:
Prof. Claude Roux, University of Technology Sydney (UTS), Australia
Instructors/ Presenters:
Dr. Julian Broseus, University of Technology Sydney (UTS), Australia
Dr. Elenore Ryser, University of Technology Sydney (UTS), Australia
A/Prof. Marie Morelato McNerney, University of Technology Sydney (UTS), Australia
Program Description:
This workshop explores how fragmented or ambiguous digital traces are interpreted during investigations. Participants will work with incomplete real world–inspired digital datasets to examine how context, practitioner background, assumptions, and reasoning strategies influence investigative conclusions. The session combines: real world–inspired digital datasets to examine how context, practitioner background, assumptions, and reasoning strategies influence investigative conclusions.
Subject to participants’ agreement, their answers may be used to develop a reusable dataset for future research and teaching. Attendees will be asked to provide formal approval for this arrangement.
0:00–0:15 – Welcome, aims, introduction and future applications in research, teaching, and practice, consent for sharing data
0:15–0:45 – Overview: digital traces, context, and interpretative challenges
0:45–1:45 – Interactive Group Exercise 1: Interpreting fragmented digital traces
1:45–2:00 – Break
2:00–3:00 – Interactive Group Exercise 2: Reasoning strategies and uncertainty communication
3:00–3:15 – Synthesis and closing remarks
Participant Prerequisites
Learning Objectives:
Practical and Educational Value:
Participants gain hands-on experience engaging with realistic but intentionally incomplete digital data, building skills in reasoning, uncertainty management and communication. The workshop strengthens the link between technical digital analysis.
Target Audience:
All forensic disciplines, with particular relevance to:
Knowledge Level:
Intermediate – Participants should have foundational knowledge of digital traces or forensic reasoning, but no advanced technical expertise is required.
Price:
50 €
Postmortem Image Interpretation Workshop
Chair/ Co – chair:
Hideki Hyodoh, MD, PhD
Instructors/ Presenters:
Dr. Hideki Hyodoh Dr. Himeko Kubota Dr. Junghye Lee Dr. Heon Lee Dr. Maiko Yoshida Dr. Yohsuke Makino Dr. Minju Lee Dr. Hikaru Kuninaka Dr. Heon Lee
Program Description:
This workshop represents a specialized educational program dedicated to postmortem image interpretation, which has been conducted continuously in Japan since 2021. It was established with the aim of enhancing the scientific and practical value of postmortem imaging through structured training in image interpretation. Because postmortem images undergo dynamic and time-dependent changes following the loss of physiological homeostasis, expertise derived solely from clinical diagnostic imaging is insufficient. A comprehensive understanding of normal postmortem changes, together with postmortem imaging findings specific to forensic medicine, is essential for accurate interpretation and reliable death investigation. The scientific program of this workshop addresses four key thematic areas, presented by Dr. Himeko Kubota, Dr. Junghye Lee, Dr. Heon Lee, and Dr. Maiko Yoshida. In addition, Dr. Yohsuke Makino delivers a live image interpretation demonstration to illustrate practical workflows in postmortem imaging analysis. Selected instructive cases are further presented by Dr. Minju Lee and Dr. Hikaru Kuninaka to highlight both the potential and the limitations of postmortem imaging. While every effort has been made to ensure a high-quality educational experience, we acknowledge that certain aspects may not fully meet the expectations of all participants. We respectfully ask for your understanding in this regard. Finally, we wish to express our profound gratitude to all colleagues whose invaluable support and cooperation have made this workshop possible.
Three Types of Participation
① Advance registration, Full type: Bring own laptop with DICOM viewer
→ SSD (full data)+ dataset download web address
② Advance registration, Half type: Bring own iPad with viewer
→ dataset download web address
③ Without advance registration
→ Audit attendance permitted; image viewing available via on-site download of the simplified dataset
Registration Categories
1 Hands-on Registration (SSD-based)
Participants will take part in hands-on image interpretation using full datasets (imaging data and macroscopic findings) provided on loaned SSDs.
SSDs are provided on a loan basis and must be returned after the workshop.
The number of participants in this category is limited to 100, due to the limited number of SSDs available.
Participants are required to bring a laptop computer with a pre-installed DICOM viewer and USB connectivity.
2 Hands-on Registration (Web / Tablet-based)
Participants will engage in hands-on image interpretation using simplified datasets provided via a web-based platform.
There is no limit on the number of participants in this category.
Participants are required to bring a tablet device (e.g., iPad).
The datasets must be downloaded in advance from a web address that will be provided prior to the workshop.
3 Observer Registration
Participants attend the workshop as observers without participating in hands-on image interpretation.
No specific equipment is required.
Depending on the on-site web environment, downloading datasets during the workshop may not be possible.
Dataset Distribution
For participants registered under either Hands-on Registration (SSD-based or Web/Tablet-based), access information for the simplified datasets will be sent by email around late April -early May 2026.
Please ensure that you register an email address that you regularly check, as the download information will be sent to the email address provided during registration. Forwarding to alternative email addresses cannot be guaranteed.
Short note for participants
Hands-on registration is available in two formats: SSD-based (limited to 100 participants) and Web/Tablet-based (no participant limit).
You may also participate by viewing the images only, without performing hands-on interpretation.
Learning Objectives:
Practical and Educational Value:
Target Audience:
This workshop is intended for beginner to intermediate participants who have already started interpreting postmortem imaging.
Knowledge Level:
All levels
Price:
Free
Zurich Forensic Imaging for Professionals Zurich Workshop
Chair/ Co – chair:
Wolf Schweitzer
Michael Thali
Instructors/ Presenters:
Vasiliki Chatzaraki (a), Carlo Tappero (a), Wolf Schweitzer (a), Garyfalia Ampanozi (c)
(a) Dept Forensic Medicine and Imaging, Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Zurich, Switzerland
(b) Ordinariat Forensic Medicine and Relation to Law, University of Zurich, Switzerland
(c) Laboratory of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece
Program Description:
This workshop will inform the audience about a number of important aspects in the context of post mortem CT (PMCT) imaging. The authors have extensive experience in successfully integrating and documenting PMCT. There are a number of PMCT specific aspects that have not been highlighted so far. One is the added value other than showing trauma and pathology as such. Another is the question of relevance: what does the term relevance connotate in the context of a whole body PMCT? Last but not the least, a setup and workflow demonstration will be included to allow people to see what can be checked and investigated using PMCT. The format is that of lectures and case demonstrations using anonymized findings of curated cases.
Time based Outline
What is the added value of post mortem CT in forensic medicine – Wolf Schweitzer – 20 minutes
The main use of post mortem CT (PMCT) in forensic medicine is that it can change case handling. It may not just be that of trying to redundantly replicate normal anatomy, trauma or pathology, that is then found at autopsy anyway. Much rather, there are distinct aspects that allow to employ it as an outstanding tool with specific workflow and evidence related advantages. This part of the workshop will identify and explain some of what we identified and developed as added value aspects that surpass mere correlation with autopsy findings. The participant then will have an understanding on what postmortem CT can really add to an investigation.
Introduction for PMCT reading and reporting – Vasiliki Chatzaraki, Carlo Tappero, Wolf Schweitzer, Garyfalia Ampanozi – two 40-min blocks (combined faculty delivery)
No forensic imaging course without a practically relevant part. We show approach and examples of our work in our current state of practice. How to set up the workplace! How to approach image reconstructions! How to present the findings!
The participant will learn what to look for step by step. The first part will detail reading strategy and workstation setup (recon types, windowing, reconstruction logic, documentation). The second part will be a guided full-case walkthrough.
Relevance: significance of that term in context of forensic medicine – Wolf Schweitzer – 20 minutes
Some fields use the term relevance in context of a key finding or main finding, setting such a finding off against presumably irrelevant findings. Conversely, the dynamics of a forensic case from first phone call to the time it goes to trial or even further is different. This part of the workshop focuses on the question how the term relevance may apply differently from the initially formulated application, in that specific context.
Downloadable PDF handout (checklist, reporting structure, reading workflow) will be made available via QR code.
Learning Objectives:
The participants can explain added value of PMCT in context of medicolegal investigations. The participants have been walked through a full PMCT reading. The participants can explain the meaning of relevance in the context of forensic PMCT.
Practical and Educational Value:
The future practice of participants may be impacted in that they can better argue the case for PMCT examinations, understand why others find this interesting and put such findings in a professional context. Understanding the theoretical term of relevance in varied forms also helps for the planning of examinations, writing protocols of findings and defining the scope of documentations.
Target Audience:
Forensic medicine and pathology, radiology
Knowledge Level:
Basic
Price:
Free
Post-mortem imaging in Disaster Victim Identification (DVI): current role and new developments
Chair/ Co – chair:
A/Prof. Hans H. de Boer, Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, Melbourne, Australia
Dr Chris O’Donnell, Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, Melbourne, Australia
Instructors/ Presenters:
A/Prof. Hans H. de Boer, Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, Melbourne, Australia
Dr Chris O’Donnell, Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, Melbourne, Australia
Prof. Soren Blau, International Committee for Missing Persons, The Hague, The Netherlands
Dr Simon Stables, Northern Forensic Pathology Service, Auckland, New Zealand
A/Prof. Alex Forrester,
Prof. Summer Decker, USC Center for Innovation in Medical Visualization, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, United States
A/Prof Jonathan Ford, USC Center for Innovation in Medical Visualization, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, United States
Dr Vitallii Levchenko, Head of the Centre for Identification, Main Bureau of Forensic Medical Examination, Ukraine
Program Description:
This workshop consists of a series of lectures, case presentations, and research communications which comprehensively explain the current role of post-mortem imaging in Disaster Victim Identification (DVI), and relevant new developments in this field. Using practical examples and a multidisciplinary perspective this workshop explains how post-mortem imaging can increase the efficiency and accuracy of a DVI operation. Presentations will also focus on logistical issues, the possible risks associated with imaging, and on advanced methods that can extent the benefit of imaging beyond triage.
Learning Objectives:
After attending this workshop, participants will:
Practical and Educational Value:
This workshop will impact the forensic science community by providing an up-to-date overview of ‘best practices’ with regards to post-mortem imaging and Disaster Victim Identification. As such, this workshop assists participants with the implementation of post-mortem imaging in their DVI protocols, thereby increasing their efficiency.
Target Audience:
Forensic pathologists, forensic anthropologists, forensic odontologists, forensic radiologist, forensic radiographers, police officers, crime scene officers, DVI specialists.
Knowledge Level:
Basic, Intermediate
Price:
Free
Dr Antonel Olckers has led various initiatives that improved the ecosystem of forensic science in South Africa and Africa. She currently serves as the founding President of the African Forensic Sciences Academy (AFSA) and was the founding chair and director of the South African Academy of Forensic Sciences (SAAFS). She is a fellow of the AAFS, a member of the ISFG and chairs the SANAS Specialist Technical Committee for Forensic Science. A company she founded in 2001 developed South Africa’s first accredited forensic science qualification and provides specialised training for both public prosecutors and public defenders to facilitate the effectively handling of DNA traces in court. She holds a PhD in molecular human genetics from the University of Pretoria, with research conducted at Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, and previously served as a Full Professor and Director of the Centre for Genome Research at NWU. At a strategic level she has been active in various advisory roles to government in the fields of forensic science, policy and ethics. Dr Olckers practices as an independent forensic scientist (in DNA) and frequently provides expert testimony in High- and lower courts. She is a strong advocate for empowering the next generation of forensic scientists.
Krzysztof Jerzy Woźniak, MD, PhD, specialist in forensic pathology, is a Jagiellonian University Professor – head of the JU MC Chair and Department of Forensic Medicine research team in the activities of the Technical Working Group Post-mortem Angiography Methods (TWGPAM). Chair 2020/2021 of the International Society of Forensic Radiology and Imaging. Conference Chair of the 13th Annual Congress of the International Society of Forensic Radiology and Imaging in Kraków, Poland (2024).
Professor Miranda is the Director of the Center for Criminal Justice Studies at Farmingdale State College (SUNY). She holds a Ph.D. in Criminal Justice, Forensic Science concentration, from The Graduate Center of the City University of New York and an M.S. in Forensic Science from John Jay College of Criminal Justice (CUNY). Dr. Miranda is certified by the American Board of Criminalistics (ABC-GKE) and is a Fellow of the Criminalistics Section of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS). Prior to entering academia, she worked as a Criminalist in the Trace Evidence Analysis Unit of the New York City Police Department (NYPD) Police Lab.
Agnieszka Łukomska is currently the Chairperson of the European Network of Forensic Science Institutes (ENFSI), having served on the ENFSI Board for almost four years. In her role, she is responsible for ensuring the Network’s sustainable scientific growth and operational capacity, and maintaining proper standards and the quality of forensic science delivery across Europe.
Her professional experience at the Central Forensic Laboratory of the Police in Warsaw, Poland, spanning over 30 years, has centred on various aspects of forensic policing. She is currently a member of the Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) management team within the Polish Police, as well as the national contact point for the DVI Interpol and the European Union DVI network. While contributing to the development of DVI standards and methodology at a national level, she is responsible for conducting training courses for the Polish DVI team, organising command DVI exercises and developing mass fatality scenarios for mock exercises, as well as sharing good practices in this area. She frequently speaks at international conferences on topics such as the management of the disaster victim identification process, ENFSI leadership, ensuring quality at crime scenes and the international developments in forensic science. She also chairs scientific panels and sessions. Agnieszka Łukomska has participated in a number of international projects aimed at developing procedures, such as the Best Practice Manual for the Implementation of a Quality Management System and Accreditation Model for Crime Scene Investigation or CBRN Scenarios – Response and Preparedness.
Given her extensive experience in international standardisation in the field of forensic science, Agnieszka Łukomska represents the Central Forensic Laboratory of the Police in the ISO/TC 272 mirror committee on Forensic Sciences. In this capacity, she provides opinions and guidance on processes involving the detection and collection of physical evidence, its analysis and interpretation, and the reporting of results in court. She has received several awards and medals at national and international levels for her contributions to the development of forensic science.
Prof. Ranavaya is Senior Associate Dean and Professor of Occupational and Environmental Medicine at Marshall University School of Medicine, West Virginia, where he also directs the Appalachian Institute of Occupational & Environmental Medicine. Board-certified in Occupational and Environmental Medicine, he holds a Juris Doctorate (2007, ASL Law School, Virginia) and teaches Health Care Law at Joan C. Edwards Medical School, Marshall University, Huntington, WV.
A distinguished consulting physician and sought-after medico-legal speaker, Prof. Ranavaya advises the U.S. Federal Department of Labor and has counseled multiple states, including Ohio and California, on workplace injury and disability management. He consults for multinational insurers and businesses on injury management, rehabilitation, and return-to-work strategies.
Internationally, governmental agencies and compensation systems across Australia, Europe, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and North America have retained his expertise in impairment and disability assessment and return-to-work strategies. He has trained over 10,000 physicians and healthcare providers worldwide in independent medical evaluations and the AMA Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment, for which he serves as Section Editor and primary author of multiple chapters (6th ed.).
Prof. Ranavaya has authored more than 10 textbook chapters in physical medicine, chronic pain management, and disability medicine, and wrote Physician’s Guide to Medico-Legal Practice (AMA Press, 300 pp.). He has conducted several thousand independent medical evaluations and is a globally recognized AMA Guides authority.
Past President of the American Academy of Disability Evaluating Physicians, he is a founding father and current President of the American Board of Independent Medical Examiners (ABIME), where he helped develop the credentialing examination for Certified Independent Medical Examiners (CIME).
Thomas Keller is Head of the Forensic Toxicology Department and Chief Toxicologist at the Institute of Forensic Medicine, Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Austria. He holds a Doctor of Science (Chemistry) degree, is a GTFCh-certified forensic toxicologist and has been Professor at the Interfaculty Department of Forensic Medicine and Forensic Neuropsychiatry since 2005, authorized to teach forensic toxicology. He lectures on forensic toxicology to undergraduate and graduate students and has been a sworn and court-certified expert in forensic toxicology since 1998, as a member of the Austrian Association of Generally Sworn and Court-Certified Experts.
Dr. Simon Elliott is a Consultant Forensic Toxicologist and Director of Elliott Forensic Consulting Ltd and Toxicology UK Ltd with over 30 years experience. He is the current President of The International Association of Forensic Toxicologists (TIAFT) and is a Visiting Professor in Forensic Toxicology at King’s College London. Dr Elliott has published over 100 articles in clinical, forensic and analytical toxicology, especially New Psychoactive Substances and is an Editor of Clarke’s Analysis of Drugs and Poisons. He is a member of the WHO Expert Committee on Drug Dependence and advises the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime.
Professor Silke Grabherr is Director of the University Center of Legal Medicine (CURML), a multi-site center in the French-speaking part of Switzerland. She is Full Professor at the Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, and at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva. A forensic pathologist specializing in forensic imaging, she is internationally recognized for the development of postmortem angiography (MPMCTA). She has trained numerous teams worldwide and served as main editor of the Atlas of Postmortem Angiography, establishing herself as a leading reference in the field.
Dr. Sarah Wille (PhD Pharm.) is Head of the Forensic Toxicology Department at the National Institute of Criminalistics and Criminology (NICC) in Brussels, Belgium. Her research focuses on New Psychoactive Substances, alternative matrices, drugs and driving, and advanced analytical methods and validation. She is a recognized expert for Belgian judicial authorities, has published extensively, co-edits WIRES Forensic Toxicology and the Journal of Analytical Toxicology, and received the 2017 TIAFT Achievement Award. Dr. Wille currently serves as TIAFT president elect, is Vice president of the Royal Society of Legal Medicine Belgium and is President of the Toxicological Society of Belgium and Luxembourg.
Rossana Cecchi is Director of the Institute of Legal Medicine and of the Postgraduate School in Forensic Medicine at the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia. She serves as Vice-President of the International Academy of Legal Medicine and is a member of the board of the European Council of Legal and Forensic Medicine. Her research focuses on forensic histopathology and medical ethics, with international collaborations, particularly with Germany and Japan. She has extensive experience in forensic casework and postgraduate training, contributing to the development of evidence-based practices in legal medicine. She is Editor of the International Journal of Legal Medicine and Associate Editor of Legal Medicine (Elsevier, Tokyo).
Dr. Patrick Buzzini, originally from the Italian part of Switzerland, is a forensic science professor with the Department of Forensic Science at Sam Houston State University, in Huntsville, Texas. His academic teaching covers various areas of criminalistics, and his research interests primarily focus on trace evidence analysis and interpretation. He is an appointed member of the Texas Forensic Science Commission, a member of the Organization of Scientific Areas Committees (OSAC), and a former officer of the Criminalistics section of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS).
Professor Pascal Adalian is the director of the Forensic Anthropology Research Team at the ADES Laboratory (UMR 7268) at Aix-Marseille University in France. As president of the Forensic Anthropology Society of Europe (FASE), he promotes international standards and professional development within the field. A certified judicial expert and long-standing consultant to the Forensic Medicine Department in Marseille, he combines academic research with practical experience in casework. His scholarship advances identification methodologies and biological profiling, particularly in relation to juvenile osteology. Advocating evidence-based practice, he has developed rigorous protocols that strengthen the scientific and judicial recognition of forensic anthropology.
Oran Finegan is a forensic anthropologist focused on the application of forensics to humanitarian and human rights work. He has over 25 years of experience working in conflict and post conflict settings, helping design and build human identification programs and local forensic capacity to recover, examine and identify the deceased.
Formerly head of forensics at the International Committee of the Red Cross, he has founded Forensic Action International, which aims to use forensics to strengthen the humanitarian response in conflict and disasters and advocate for the dignity of the deceased and the rights of missing persons and their families.
Noemi Procopio is Professor of Forensic Sciences at the University of Lancashire (UK) and a UKRI Future Leaders Fellow. She is the Principal Investigator of the “Forens-OMICS” research team and the Co-Director of the Research Centre for Field Archaeology and Forensic Taphonomy of the University of Lancashire. Her area of expertise is forensic taphonomy and forensic biomolecular sciences, specifically the application of multi-omics approaches, including proteomics, metabolomics, genomics and microbiome analysis, to post-mortem interval and age-at-death estimation. Her work aims to translate advanced molecular methods into robust, validated tools suitable for forensic casework, policy development, and courtroom application.
Prof Michael J. Thali, MD, Executive MBA (HSG), has been Full Professor (Chair) of “Forensic Medicine and its Relation to Jurisprudence” at the University of Zurich’s Institute of Forensic Medicine, where he has led major research, teaching and service activities. Thali is internationally recognised as a co-founder and leading advocate of the Virtopsy® (virtual autopsy) approach, advancing minimally invasive, imaging-led forensic investigation with global reach. In Switzerland, he has also been a prominent driver of Forensic Nursing, including leadership of the UZH CAS programme bridging clinical care with legal and ethical interfaces.
Dr. Katarzyna Michaud is a Senior Lecturer and Privat-Docent at the University of Lausanne in Switzerland and works at the University Center of Forensic Medicine in Lausanne. Her research focuses on sudden cardiac death, a multidisciplinary management and postmortem investigations of these deaths including modern technologies as genetic analyses and imaging. She is member of many professional and academic associations, Past President of the Association for European Cardiovascular Pathology. Her professional activities include also undergraduate and post-graduate teaching for the Faculty of Biology and Medicine, Faculty of Law and the School of Criminal Justice at the University of Lausanne.
Professor Jaroslaw Berent is a specialist in forensic medicine and forensic toxicology. He serves as Professor at the Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, and at the Department of Criminal Proceedings and Forensics, University of Lodz. He is a member of the Pathology and Anthropology Sub-group of the Interpol DVI Working Group and of the Executive Committee of the European Council of Legal and Forensic Medicine. From 1998 to 2002, he acted as an expert at the UN International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia. Between 2007 and 2019, he was President of the Polish Society of Forensic Medicine and Criminology.
Professor Jose A. Lorente, M.D., Ph.D., is Full Professor of Forensic Medicine at the University of Granada and Director of the Laboratory of Genetic Identification (LABIGEN). He is a forensic physician and geneticist with longstanding involvement in human rights–related cases, supporting authorities, families of missing persons, and human rights organizations in numerous countries. In 1999, he founded the Phoenix Program of Spain, the first genetic identification program for missing persons. In 2004, he became Scientific Director of the DNA-PROKIDS Program, an international initiative for missing children identification. His expertise includes forensic genetics, human identification and medical genomics, with research interests in liquid biopsy and cancer interception.
Joanna Collins, MFS, is the owner of LINUS Investigations and Consulting where she oversees expert consulting. She served 25+ years as a criminal investigator with the US government (AFOSI), retiring as a Colonel (O6) in 2022. She served as a supervisory special agent/commander and specialized in forensic science with specific focus on deaths, sexual assaults, and child sexual assault cases, to include child forensic interviewing. As an expert, she reviews crime scenes investigations, documentation, and criminal investigations regarding their sufficiency, and adherence to best practices and accepted standards. She served as the 2025-2026 President of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences and serves on the Board of Directors.
Dr. JoAnn Buscaglia is a Research Chemist with the FBI Laboratory whose research is primarily focused in the areas of microscopy/microanalysis and elemental analysis of trace materials, impression and pattern evidence, and the interpretation of data in a forensic context. JoAnn received her PhD from the City University of New York, and a B.S. and M.S. in Forensic Science (Criminalistics) from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. She has been honored for her research contributions with the Paul L. Kirk Award, the highest honor given by the American Academy of Forensic Sciences, Criminalistics Section, of which she is a Fellow.
Garyfalia Ampanozi is a Professor of Forensic Medicine at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece, since September 2025. She was a member of the Virtopsy team and the Institute of Forensic Medicine at the University of Zurich, Switzerland, for more than 15 years. Her main research focus is on the field of forensic imaging, particularly postmortem computed tomography, with significant contributions in the literature as an author (over 100 articles and book chapters in forensic textbooks), reviewer or member of the editorial board of forensic journals. She is lecturing in various Universities and gives invited talks all over the world.
Fabrice Dedouit is a French radiologist and forensic pathologist at the Toulouse Hospital (France). He started his radiology residency in 2000 and forensic pathology residency in 2004 at the University Paul Sabatier (Toulouse, France). He received his M.D in 2004, his Ph.D. Thesis in Biological Anthropology in 2009, his Habilitation degree in 2011, and became Docent. In 2022/2023 he was president of the ISFRI (International Society of Forensic Radiology and Imaging). Since 2020, he is Director of a national University Degree called “Forensic Imaging”. Since 2004 he published more than 150 publications and 30 chapters of books in the field of forensic radiology and forensic anthropology. He was editor in 2022 of the book “ Forensic Imaging – A Practical Guide”. He is involved and active in forensic imaging and particularly virtual autopsy and virtual anthropology since 2004.
Professor Denis A. Cusack is Head of the National Forensic Intoxicant Laboratory for Ireland at University College Dublin and has served as a Coroner in the Irish death investigation service since 1995. He has over 30 years of experience in forensic medicine, postgraduate teaching, and research. His specialist interests include forensic medicine, intoxicated driving, road traffic medicine, forensic death investigation, and medico-legal issues in healthcare practice, ethics, and professionalism.
He currently serves as Vice-President of the International Academy of Legal Medicine and was Immediate Past-President of the European Council of Legal Medicine (2019–2024).
Professor Cristiana Palmela Pereira is President of the International Organization for Forensic Odonto-Stomatology (IOFOS) and an Assistant Professor with Habilitation at the Faculty of Dental Medicine, University of Lisbon. She has 17 years of experience as a consulting forensic dentist at the Portuguese National Institute of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences and serves as a court-appointed forensic expert. Her expertise includes clinical forensic odontology, human identification, bite mark analysis, evaluation of bodily injury, professional liability, and age assessment. She is also Executive Coordinator of the Expert Committee of the Portuguese Dental Association and Portuguese Delegate to INTERPOL’s DVI Forensic Odontology Sub-Working Group.
Christopher Thompson is the Immediate President of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences and a Past President of the American Academy of Psychiatry & the Law. He is board certified in Psychiatry, Forensic Psychiatry, Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, and Addiction Medicine. He is a Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association and the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. He is a Voluntary Associate Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. In the past, he served as the Director of the Forensic Psychiatry Division of the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health.
Charles Berger is principal scientist at the Netherlands Forensic Institute (NFI), and professor of Criminalistics at Leiden University. He specializes in subjects such as evidence interpretation and inference (logic, probability). At the NFI he is active in a number of areas such as education, R&D strategy, and his own research about which he publishes internationally. He also supports the NFI experts, advises the direction, and guards the scientific quality. Charles is a member of the ISO technical committee that developed the ISO-21043 Forensic Sciences standard, and was lead editor for Part 4: Interpretation.
Carol Rogers is a forensic scientist with 28 years of experience in the biology discipline. Her areas of expertise include blood pattern analysis, body fluid identification, textile damage interpretation, DNA interpretation (including Y-STR analysis and STR mixture interpretation), and crime scene examination for major crime. Her professional portfolio includes extensive work on sexual offences and violence against women and girls, for which she serves as the National Lead for SPA Forensic Services.
She is the current Chair of the AFSP Body Fluid Forum and a member of the FFLM Science Subcommittee. She was recently awarded an Honorary Doctorate by Queen Margaret University in recognition of her contributions to forensic science.
Professor Bertrand Ludes is a distinguished forensic pathologist with over 30 years of experience in forensic pathology, anthropology, and genetics. His work integrates genetic analysis with anthropological research, contributing to the study of historical populations, human evolution, and migration patterns. He is widely recognized for his expertise in ancient DNA and its application in forensic and historical investigations. Professor Ludes is also involved in the analysis of cold cases through macroscopic and microscopic examination of bone lesions. He is currently Professor of Legal Medicine and Director of the Institut Médico-légal de Paris, where he leads a CNRS–Paris Cité University–certified research team focused on human identification in complex forensic contexts.
Anuruddhi Edirisinghe is the Carder Chair & Senior Professor of Forensic Medicine, in the Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka. She commenced her career in Forensic Medicine in 2000. Her research interests include child abuse, sexual and gender-based violence, homicides, vulnerable road users, drunken drivers, unnatural female deaths etc. She has journal publications over 50 (35 index), one book,5 book chapters and over 350 presentations in local/international scientific conferences including plenaries, keynotes, and orations.
Presently she is the chairperson of the women health committee of Sri Lanka Medical Association and the President of International Association of Clinical Forensic Medicine.
Professor Adrian Linacre is a British forensic scientist specializing in forensic biology and DNA analysis. He has extensive experience in human identification, DNA profiling, and the interpretation of biological evidence in forensic casework. His research also covers wildlife forensic genetics, supporting investigations into illegal trade and species identification. He has published widely in international journals and is actively involved in forensic education and training in the United Kingdom and abroad. Professor Linacre has contributed to the development of best practices and quality standards in forensic science, focusing on the reliability and interpretation of DNA evidence in legal and investigative contexts.
Dr. Rathachai Kaewlai is a Thai academic radiologist and Associate Professor at the Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Bangkok, with expertise in emergency and forensic imaging. He has been actively involved in the early development and implementation of postmortem CT (PMCT) in Thailand and has played a leading role in advancing forensic imaging nationally through the establishment of the Thai PMCT group and his presidency of the Forensic Radiology & Imaging Network of Thailand (FRINT). His work focuses on integrating postmortem imaging into clinical practice, education, and multidisciplinary collaboration.
Oleksandr Pavliukovych, MD, PhD, is an Associate Professor at the Department of Forensic Medicine and Medical Law, Bukovinian State Medical University (Ukraine). National Authority Delegates of Ukraine in European Council of Legal & Forensic Medicine (ECLFM), Member of the Balkan Academy of Forensic Scientists (BAFS), the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS), the Eastern European Association of Forensic Medicine, the British Association for Human Identification (BAHID). His advanced training includes specialized European programs in Disaster Victim Identification (DVI), wound ballistics, and forensic trauma assessment, reflecting his strong expertise in both routine and high-complexity forensic investigations. Alongside his academic and teaching responsibilities, Dr Pavliukovych maintains continuous practical activity at the Chernivtsi Regional Bureau of Forensic Medical Examination, where he serves as an expert in the evaluation of particularly challenging cases, including gunshot trauma, road traffic injuries, and complex combined mechanisms of injury. His professional work integrates clinical forensic practice with evidence-based forensic methodology, contributing to the advancement of forensic diagnostics and medico-legal decision-making.
A recognized international forensic nurse leader with extensive experience in advancing trauma-informed, evidence-based care for both pediatric and adult victims of violence and exploitation, Jamie Ferrell, MBA, BSN, RN, SANE-A, SANE-P, DF-IAFN, FAAFS is a founding member and former president of the International Association of Forensic Nurses who served as a task force member establishing the Forensic Nursing Science Section with The American Academy of Forensic Sciences. Her work integrates clinical practice, education, and innovation to strengthen forensic response systems globally by leveraging her deep commitment to protect children while advancing human rights and forensic science standards across disciplines through scientific rigor and human connection.
Ixchel De La Luz-Martinez is an esteemed Forensic Genetics Expert Witness for Mexico’s federal and state courts and a distinguished academic who has shaped the field through various specialized forensic education programs. As the former President and current International Affairs Manager of the Latin American Society of Forensic Genetics (SLAGF), she has spearheaded regional quality control initiatives and coordinated major scientific conferences across Latin America for over a decade. Guided by the principles of the Sydney Declaration, her expertise is particularly evident in promoting pre-analytical quality by developing forensic methodologies that prioritize children’s and human rights with a gender perspective, ensuring a focus on minorities and vulnerable populations within the justice system.
Bart Latten, MD, PhD, is a forensic pathologist at the Netherlands Forensic Institute and serves as the co-chair of the IALM 2027. Affiliated with Maastricht University Medical Center, he leads several research projects focusing on postmortem imaging, visualization, and forensic diagnostic techniques. Furthermore, he advances the quality of death investigations through his leadership in professional committees, the development of national guidelines, and his role as an examiner for medical forensic experts.
Asst. Prof. Dr. Yusuf Atan is the Vice President of the Council of Forensic Medicine of Türkiye and a faculty member in the Department of Forensic Medicine at Bilecik Şeyh Edebali University Faculty of Medicine. He graduated from medical school in 2012 and completed his specialization in forensic medicine in 2017. Additionally, he holds a law degree.
Veronica Laura Ferrari De Stefano is a Colonel in the Italian State Police, serving as Chief Medical Officer and Deputy Advisor at the Central Directorate of the Scientific and Cyber Police. She is the National Coordinator of the Italian Police DVI Group for unidentified bodies, involved in numerous operational deployments since 2005. Former Medical Director at INAIL and a forensic medicine expert at the University of Rome “La Sapienza.” She holds a degree in Medicine, a specialization in Legal and Insurance Medicine, a PhD in Forensic Biological Sciences, and a Master’s in Legal Psychology. Former Deputy Head of a police unit preventing violence against women and minors.
Uwom Eze is a Chief Consultant (Forensic Pathologist and Clinical Forensic Physician) at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Nigeria, and possesses additional expertise in Legal, Criminology and Security Psychology from the University of Ibadan and an Executive Program in Organisational Leadership from the Center for Creative Leadership, Melbourne Business School, University of Melbourne. He was the President (2021-2015) of the African Society of Forensic Medicine (ASFM), the pan-African Society for forensic medicine and science practitioners. He is currently a member of the Medico-Legal Death Investigation-International Community of Practice (MLDI-ICoP), “…a safe collaborative environment working towards connecting and increasing knowledge of medicolegal death investigation systems globally”, in partnership with CDC Foundation and Howard University College of Medicine, Washington DC, USA, and also serves as a Justice of the Peace (JP) in his jurisdiction.
Prof. Serap Annette Akgür, MD, PhD, is a faculty member at Ege University, Türkiye, and director of a toxicology laboratory, where she oversees routine drug testing for probation systems, clinical services, and workplaces. She is a board member of EWDTS, IACFT, IAMRO, and an Asian member of TIAFT, focusing on drug testing applications and regulations to prevent drug abuse and addiction.
Specializing in questioned document examination and forensic handwriting analysis, when he retired Mr. SC Leung was head of the Forensic Science Division of the Government Laboratory of Hong Kong, China. In 2002 he was elected President of the International Association of Forensic Sciences (IAFS) and he organized in 2005, the 17th Triennial Meeting of IAFS in Hong Kong. SC is the Director of Scientific Consultancy Limited, providing specialist forensic document and handwriting examination services to Hong Kong and neighboring countries.
Nermin Sarajlić is a Full Professor and former Vice Dean at the University of Sarajevo’s Faculty of Medicine, where he also served as the Head of the Institute of Forensic Medicine. He holds leadership positions as President of the Association of Forensic Medicine of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Co-President of the Balkan Academy of Forensic Sciences. Dr. Sarajlić possesses extensive humanitarian experience, including his work as a Senior Forensic Pathologist for the International Commission on Missing Persons (ICMP).
Dr. Naim Uka is a forensic pathologist and legal scholar, currently Head of the Division for Autopsy and Clinical Examinations at the Institute of Forensic Medicine in Pristina, Kosovo, and formerly Head of the Division for Identification, Coordination, and Support. He holds a PhD in International Humanitarian Law and a Diploma of the European Postgraduate Diploma in Forensic Medicine, and serves as President of the Kosovar Association of Forensic Sciences and co-founder of the Balkan Academy of Forensic Sciences. His work focuses on forensic pathology, identification of missing persons, mass-grave investigations, and the interface between forensic science, international humanitarian law, and human rights.
Dr. Muataz A. Al-Qazzaz is Professor and Consultant of Forensic Medicine and Head of the Department of Pathology and Forensic Medicine at the College of Medicine, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq. He holds MBChB, DCM, MSc, FICMS (Iraq), and a Medical Board Certificate (Jordan), and has extensive experience in forensic pathology, medico-legal investigations, and academic training in forensic medicine.
Mr Meng Qingzhen is Chief of International Cooperation Division of Institute of Forensic Science of China. He served as secretariat of Asian Forensic Sciences Network (AFSN) and used to be a forensic DNA expert, now focusing on extending international cooperation and serving for training of personnels around China.
Dr. Linton Mohammed has been a Forensic Document Examiner for almost 40 years. He is the author of “Forensic Examination of Signatures” and co-author of “The Neuroscience of Handwriting: Applications for Forensic Document Examination”. He currently serves as the Secretary of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences for the 2025-2026 term.
Professor Jozef Šidlo, MD, CSc, MPH, FIALM, graduated from Faculty of Medicine of Charles University in Hradec Králové, Czech republic, he currently serves as a head of the Institutes of Forensic Medicine of Comenius University and Slovak Medical University in Bratislava, chief expert for forensic medicine of Ministry of Health of Slovak republic, founder and editor of the journal “Folia Societatis Medicinae Legalis Slovacae”, speaker, invited speaker, chairperson and organiser by various national and international congresses and conferences, member of several national and international professional societies and recipient of the several national and international awards.
Dr Hu Lan is Director-general of Institute of Forensic Science of China and Asian Forensic Sciences Network(AFSN) Board Member. She is forensic DNA expert, having lots of experience both on scientific research and casework, also serving as professor and PhD supervisor in People’s Public Security University of China.
Dr. Fahad Ibrahim Al-Dossari is a Kuwaiti forensic science specialist and former police general, holding a PhD in Police and Forensic Sciences from the University of Exeter and a Master’s in Forensic Science from The George Washington University. He works as a researcher, consultant, and international trainer in forensic investigation, digital evidence, and AI-assisted investigative methodologies. Dr. Al-Dosari is the developer of the “Hybrid Investigator” frameworks, integrating legal, physical, identity, and algorithmic evidence into modern investigative practice.
M. Elif Günçe Eskiköy, PhD, ICRC Regional Forensic Manager for Europe and Central Asia. Dr. Günçe Eskiköy is an expert in forensic operations within complex humanitarian settings. Her work sits at the critical intersection of international humanitarian law and transitional justice. She leverages forensic science for long term social reconciliation and integrates humanitarian diplomacy into forensic practice to ensure that scientific evidence serves the broader goal of international peace and reconciliation.
Lieutenant Domingo Villarreal is a Senior Forensic and Law Enforcement Advisor with the U.S. Department of Justice ICITAP and serves as Lieutenant of the Special Investigations Division with the San Jacinto County Sheriff’s Office (Texas). He is a Past President and Past Chairman of the Board of the International Association for Identification (IAI) and currently serves as its Acting International Representative, with extensive experience in forensic science, international training, and accreditation across multiple regions worldwide.
Darrell has been the CEO of the Chartered Society for 4 years after a long career running professional bodies and membership organisations. He represents members on many forums, and deals with governmental bodies such as the Home Office, the Ministry of Justice, the National Police Chiefs’ Council and the Office of the Forensic Science Regulator. He is a member of the All Parliamentary Party Group for Science in Parliament, with frequent visits to Westminster. He leads the Society’s work across the UK on Educational standards with Universities and Competency assessments for Crime Scene Investigators. He is co-chair of the Society’s working groups on Case Review and Legal Aid.
Christopher Milroy is a Forensic Pathology based in Ottawa, Canada, where he is a Full Professor at the University of Ottawa. He is the current President of the Canadian Association of Forensic Medicne and serves on the Board of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences. He qualified in medicine from the University of Liverpool in England in 1983. He also has law degrees from the University of London and is a Fellow of the Royal College of Pathologists and the Royal College of Physicians of Canada. He has been engaged fulltime in Forensic Pathology for over 35 years. He has published 150 papers and chapters on forensic pathology and edits the textbook Forensic Neuropathology . He is the current Editor of Academic Forensic Pathology. His research interests include biochemistry and the autopsy and the history of forensic medicine.
Dr. Srivastava is a distinguished academician in Forensic Science with more than 15 years of experience in teaching, research, and academic administration. He is presently working as Associate Professor (Forensic Sciences) and Director, Centre for Studies & Research in Forensic Sciences at The West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences (WBNUJS), Kolkata, India. He has authored several research publications and books in reputed national and international journals. He is actively associated with multiple universities and journals worldwide as an advisory board member, editorial board member, reviewer, and external expert.
Andreas Melinato is a forensic engineer and fire investigator, currently serving as Head of Institution at the European Forensic Institute in Malta. He has over 25 years of experience in forensic science, specializing in forensic engineering, fire and explosion investigations, and anti-counterfeiting. He is Past President and Life Member of the European Association of Fire Investigators and Vice President of the European Association of Crime Analysts. With more than 20 years of experience as a lecturer in forensic science and technology at private educational institutions and universities, he also has extensive experience as an expert witness in court and as a forensic consultant for law enforcement agencies and private organizations.
Alexandre Raphael Deitos is a Federal Police Forensic Officer from Brazil with extensive experience in crime scene investigation, forensic anthropology, and Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) operations worldwide. He holds a Doctorate, Master’s degree, and Specialization in Forensic Odontology, Social Dentistry, Forensic Anthropology, and Human Rights, and serves as Full Professor at the University of São Paulo (USP) and the National Police Academy. He currently chairs the INTERPOL DVI Working Group and coordinates the Brazilian Federal Police’s Permanent Commission on DVI, and has previously led the Forensics Division at the National Institute of Criminalistics and served as President of the Brazilian Association of Forensic Anthropology.
Alexander Tyr, MSc, PhD, is a forensic scientist based in Sweden and serves as a Scientific Development Officer and Research Coordinator at the Swedish National Board of Forensic Medicine. With a background in biomedicine and human anatomy, his professional experience spans academic research and governmental forensic practice. His work focuses on advancing the objectivity and scientific rigor of forensic investigations, with particular interests in drowning, the application of alternate light sources, and restraint-related deaths.
Sheila Willis studied at University College Dublin where she received her Ph.D. in Organometallic Chemistry.
Most of her career was in the Forensic Science Laboratory, Republic of Ireland where she was Director General 2002-2017.
From 2017-2019 she was a Guest Researcher at the National Institute of Standards and Technology in the US, reviewing the scientific foundations of DNA mixture interpretation.
She is a Past President of the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences, was active in ENFSI (European Network of Forensic Science Institutes) groups including chairing the EAFS( European Academy of Forensic Science) Standing Committee from 2003-2006. She was chairperson of the Association of Forensic Science Providers 2006-2009 and represented the group on the UKFS Regulator’s Advisory Council 2007-2010.
She served on the editorial board of Science and Justice 2007-2014; Forensic Science – Policy and Management 2007-2014 and the Special Edition of Forensic Science International for all of EAFS conferences since 2006.
She now works as a consultant in various parts of the world. She is a Fellow of Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science and has an honorary professorship from University of Dundee.
Sheila received an honorary doctorate from UCD, 2019 and an honorary doctorate from University of Lausanne, 2024.
The need to emphasise the foundational principles of forensic science drive a lot of Sheila’s activity. She chaired the group who produced the ENFSI guideline for evaluative reporting and is one of the group who formulated and promoted the Sydney Declaration.
LLM MSc FFFLM FRCS FRCP FCSFS FACLM FFCFM(RCPA) RCPathME DFM LBIPP DipMOD
Jason Payne-James is an independent Specialist in Forensic and Legal Medicine with a range of research and clinical interests. From a clinical perspective he has been a forensic physician for more than three decades. Previously he worked in hospital medicine, predominantly in surgical, trauma and gastroenterology specialties. He taught anatomy at the London Hospital Medical College (where he trained in medicine). His academic, clinical and teaching interests are wide-ranging and include injury, wound and scar documentation and interpretation; evidential sampling; sexual assault; non-fatal strangulation; restraint and less-lethal systems (use-of-force, TASER®, spit guards, irritant spray, kinetic energy projectiles); miscarriages of justice; clinical and ethical aspects of healthcare in custody and secure settings; death investigation; substance use; human rights abuses and torture and cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment; forensic evidence collection; cause of death and the role of postmortem CT scanning.
He is Honorary Clinical Professor at Queen Mary University of London; consultant to the UK National Crime Agency; Chair of the UK Scientific Advisory Committee on the Medical Implications of Less-Lethal Weapons; President of the European Council of Legal & Forensic Medicine. He is past-President of the Faculty of Forensic & Legal Medicine of the Royal College of Physicians (2015-2017); past-President of the World Police Medical Officers (2011-2014). He was Lead Medical Examiner at Norfolk & Norwich University Hospital from 2019-2025. He is director of Forensic Healthcare Services Ltd.
He has co-authored or co-edited the Encyclopedia of Forensic & Legal Medicine (1st, 2nd and 3rd editions); the 13th, 14th and 15th editions of Simpson’s Forensic Medicine, Current Practice in Forensic Medicine (1st, 2nd and 3rd editions); the Oxford Handbook of Forensic Medicine (1st and 2nd editions); The Medical Examiner System in England & Wales: A Practical Guide; Symptoms & Signs of Substance Use (1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th editions) and Forensic & Legal Medicine: Clinical & Pathological Aspects. His medicolegal and expert witness practice extends across the UK and internationally and he has reviewed or investigated a wide variety of deaths and serious crime for (amongst others) criminal prosecution and defence teams, families, coroners, police and the media.
MD, PhD, Specialist in Forensic Medicine, University of Helsinki, Finland
Antti Sajantila is a leading Forensic Medicine specialist with over 30 years of experience in clinical practice, postmortem investigations, and forensic genomics. At the University of Helsinki, he directs Forensic Medicine education and oversees the training of future specialists. In addition, he serves as Chief Medical Examiner at the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare. His academic work focuses on DNA analysis in forensic and archaeological contexts. Sajantila is an Ordinary Member of the Finnish Society of Sciences and Letters and has been awarded the Medal of Honor by the Finnish Association for Cherishing the Memory of the Dead of the War.
Internationally, Professor Sajantila has contributed to disaster victim identification (including the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami) and forensic investigations of human rights abuses in Peru, Colombia, Tanzania, Brazil, and Nepal. He is Vice-President of the European Council of Legal and Forensic Medicine and a Board Member of the Independent Forensic Expert Group. His contributions have been recognized with honors such as Professor honoraria causae at the Pontifical University of Lima, the Finnish Medical Foundation’s 40th Anniversary Science Prize, and the International Society for Forensic Genetics Scientific Prize.
Professor Sajantila has published approximately 250 peer-reviewed papers in journals ranging from Nature and Science to leading forensic and population genetics outlets. He has also authored chapters in key textbooks on forensic medicine and forensic DNA analysis, making significant contributions to both scientific research and professional education.
