2025 Meeting Workshops

GENERAL

Title: Validation and Verification of Analytical Methods

Presenter: David Feist, Sr. Manager, Training Business – ANAB

Abstract: This course provides an introduction to validation and verification of analytical methods. The common elements of a validation/verification plan and a general approach to performing a validation or verification are presented. The pertinent requirements in ISO/IEC 17025 and ISO/IEC 17020 for method validation and verification are also reviewed Validation and/or verification of methods enables us to demonstrate that the analytical methods are suitable for use and helps ensure that results are accurate, valid and reliable. Validation is the process of performing a set of experiments to establish the performance characteristics of a method to determine if the method meets the specified requirements for the intended use. In addition, method validation establishes the efficacy, reliability, and limitations of the method. Verification on the other hand, confirms that the lab can properly perform the method and that the method meets the performance characteristics as specified.

 

Title: Do I Really Want to Be a Lab Manager?

Presenter: Larry Sullivan, Laboratory Manager, Eastern Regional Crime Lab – GBI

Abstract: Managing a laboratory is not easy. Many new managers can be lost or unsure how to handle the staff and situations that arise. Most managers within scientific organizations are promoted from within but management training opportunities vary among organizations. In this presentation, Larry will share what he has learned in his 20 plus years in management. The presentation is designed to be fun and interactive, where he will explore such questions as “What is life like behind the desk?” and “What does a manager need to do to be effective?” The presentation is aimed toward new managers and those looking to go into management, however the topics and exercises will benefit employees at all levels.

 

Title: Under the Microscope: Managing Psychological Stress in Forensic Science and Mindbase, A New Emotional Wellness Tool from Versaterm

Presenter: Jennifer Dillon, State Administrative Manager Wellness and Resiliency Section – Michigan State Police

Abstract: This workshop delves into the psychological stressors unique to forensic science professionals, providing a trauma-informed approach to understanding and addressing these challenges. Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the physiological response to stress, including how prolonged cortisol activation impacts cognitive function and emotional regulation. Forensic science professionals often face significant stressors, such as exposure to traumatic evidence, high-pressure deadlines, and ethical dilemmas, all of which can negatively affect mental and physical well-being. Drawing on the latest research, this session will present evidence-based strategies for stress recovery, resilience-building, and fostering psychological safety in the workplace.

Through interactive activities—including mindfulness exercises, grounding techniques, and scenario-based problem-solving—attendees will develop practical tools to manage stress effectively and support both personal and team wellness. This workshop aims to empower forensic professionals to thrive in their demanding roles while cultivating a culture of resilience and well-being.

Mindbase delivers a trusted, data-driven wellness solution that emphasizes preventative and proactive care while maintaining confidentiality, fostering employee well-being, and empowering peer support leaders with advanced monitoring tools. Paired with the groundbreaking Checkpoints program, developed by former Assistant Chief Reuben Ramirez of the Dallas Police Department, Mindbase+Checkpoints is setting a new standard for public safety wellness programs. Instead of waiting for employees to seek out mental health resources, Versaterm Mindbase provides your agency with a forward-thinking strategy to ensure employees feel supported and receive help when they may need it most.

 

Title: Trauma-Informed Leadership in Forensic Science: Building Psychological Safety for Wellness and Resilience

Presenter: Jennifer Dillon, State Administrative Manager Wellness and Resiliency Section –
Michigan State Police

Abstract: Forensic science professionals operate in high-pressure environments where exposure to trauma and workplace stress can take a significant toll on their well-being and performance. This workshop introduces trauma-informed leadership approaches to address these challenges and cultivate a workplace culture of psychological safety. Participants will explore the principles of trauma-informed care, the role of leadership in mitigating secondary trauma, and practical strategies to enhance resilience and wellness within their teams. By creating a psychologically safe environment, leaders can empower employees to navigate challenges with greater confidence and sustain their health and effectiveness in the long term.

This interactive session combines evidence-based practices, real-world applications, and group activities tailored to the unique demands of forensic science. Attendees will leave with actionable tools to foster a supportive workplace that promotes both individual and organizational resilience.

 

Title: Court Basics, Criminal Procedure, Testimony, and Caselaw
Presenter: Audra Thomas-Eth and Lauren Gonales, FDLE Regional Legal Advisors
Abstract: TBD

 

BIOLOGY

Title: Detect More Evidence

Presenter: Amanda Silva, Technical Sales Specialist – Foster + Freeman

Abstract: Various types of evidence are often overlooked at a crime scene or on victims because they are not visible to the naked eye. When using an alternate light source with the traditional corresponding filter, it is still possible to miss items of evidence due to background interference or improper angle of illumination. The purpose of this workshop will be to introduce attendees to various methods utilized in detecting evidence beyond the visible range. An introduction to light theory and techniques utilizing wavelengths of light beyond the visible range on notoriously difficult surfaces will be discussed. This will include ultraviolet and infrared examination to detect the presence of biological fluids and gunshot residue on various articles of clothing. Novel oblique lighting techniques will be explored to detect evidence on raised surfaces and footwear impressions. Bandpass filtering techniques will also be explored to aid in the detection of evidence.

 

Title: Rapid DNA in the Forensic Crime Lab and GeneMapper ID-X v1.7 Tips

Presenter: Lawrence Yoon, Account Manager, Thermo Fisher Scientific

Abstract: Rapid DNA technology has evolved over the course of the past several years to become a stable platform for use within the forensic crime laboratory and law enforcement environments. This workshop will focus on the crime lab context but acknowledging the growing presence in the law enforcement sector. Attendees will learn about the Thermo Fisher Scientific RapidHIT-ID platform, workflow, software, connectivity, and broad range of potential applications inside and outside of the laboratory. The second part of the workshop will present on GeneMapper ID-X v1.7, the latest version of our forensic data analysis software. Participants will learn about the latest new features, and differences from prior versions of GMID-X, that offer improvements and a better overall user experience. Our FAS, Laura Ascroft, will also offer helpful tips and tricks that will help enhance the analyst’s workflow.

Title: 2025 FBI QAS – What You Need to Know About All the Upcoming QAS Changes and
Forensic Rapid DNA

Presenter: Doug Hares, Rapid DNA Implementation Program Advisor and Jocelyn Carlson –
Federal Bureau of Investigation

Abstract: TBD

 

CHEMISTRY/TOXICOLOGY

Title: GCMS Troubleshooting Tips, MS Acquisition Parameter Optimization, and What Really
Happens When You Tune

Presenter: Kirk Lokits, GCMS Applications Scientist, Agilent Technologies

Abstract: The GCMS workshop will focus on the fundamental aspects of operational theory, troubleshooting, and maintenance of GC (Split/Splitless) inlets and MS EI sources. Column selection and inlet and flow path troubleshooting, maintenance, and ways to speed up your analysis will be discussed. The workshop format will be PowerPoint based but will have hands-on labs involving split/splitless inlets and MS EI sources. The MS workshop will also cover the fundamental aspects of MS operational theory, optimizing acquisition parameters for spectral fidelity and method stability. Attendees will have the opportunity to perform hands-on dis-assembly and reassembly of an EI source, discuss best practices for cleaning the source, and logical troubleshooting and maintenance of MS and vacuum system. An in-depth discussion of the tuning process and what’s occurring during the tuning process will be presented.

 

Title: The Evolution of Postmortem Toxicology in North Carolina

Presenter: Laura Friederich and Brittany Friedman, Forensic Toxicologist – NC PCME and Todd Stoner, Technical Sales Specialist, Thermo Fisher Scientific

Abstract: This workshop will provide an overview of the North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, the historical and current postmortem toxicology screening process, and a small case series discussion of synthetic cannabinoid deaths and their detection using the Thermo-Fisher Orbitrap HRMS screening strategy. The workshop will begin with geographic and structural background information about the statewide NC medical examiner system, with both the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner and the toxicology department located within the NC Department of Health and Human Services. We will then discuss the historical use of immunoassays as a screening tool in addition to GC/MS analysis, and the progression through linear ion trap LC/MS analysis to Orbitrap analysis in the PRM mode, and finally to our current strategy of high resolution Orbitrap LC/MS analysis in full scan mode with ddMS2 fragmentation. A technical specialist from Thermo-Fisher scientific will give further details about the Orbitrap technology, capabilities, and its advantages in forensic applications. The workshop will then present specific sample prep and instrument method details, including our strategy of initially targeting 94 common substances and then doing a “reinterrogation” of the data on a case-by-case basis for an ever-evolving list of less common/ emerging substances. Finally, we will discuss a case series of synthetic cannabinoid-related deaths (involving primarily MDMB-4en-PINACA, ADB-BUTINACA, 4F-MDMB-BUTINACA,
5F-MDMB-PICA, and 5F-ADB), that have been detected using the Orbitrap screening and re-interrogation Methods. The workshop will close with an open-format audience-focused Q&A/ discussion to allow the exchange of information about the structure and funding of other forensic systems, and what workflow strategies are being used to reduce case turnaround times. This will provide opportunities for connection and the growth of information sharing networks across the
forensics community in the south.

 

Title: Vaping Unveiled: Cannabis Products and Analytical Insights

Presenter: Justin Poklis, B.S. and Alaina Holt, Ph.D. – VCU

Abstract: Electronic cigarettes (e-cigs) were first introduced to the United States in 2006. This modern e-cig was intended for use as a nicotine-cessation product but were quickly adopted for use with drugs other than nicotine. Starting in 2008, a new wave of synthetic cannabinoids (SynCans) began to proliferate in the United States “elicit” drug market. The legalization/decriminalization of cannabis in Colorado and passage of the 2018 Farm Bill led to a dramatic rise of “semi-synthetic” analogues related to delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta 9-THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). Many of the new “semi-synthetic” analogues are initially available in the form of vaping products, and following commercial success are adopted into other consumer forms such as concentrates and edibles. Synthetic THC and CBD derivatives include, but are not limited to, Δ8-THC, Δ10-THC, Δ6a-10a-THC, THC-acetate (THC-O), CBD-di-acetate (CBD-di-O), tetrahydrocannabiphorol (THC-P), exo-THC, hexahydrocannabinol (HHC), tetrahydrocannabutol (THC-B). The rise of these cannabinoids has led to various analytical challenges, deriving from their similarity in structure, often being isobars, and lack of reference material. The incidence of reported adverse effects associated with cannabis products is on the rise. Many of these compounds have limited pharmacological data available. Biomarkers are often not characterized or available. This workshop will present the general history and function of electronic cigarettes, the state of cannabis legalization and regulations, historical and modern case reports involving cannabis and synthetic cannabis products, outcomes of surveillance studies, THC analogue metabolite studies, and testing implications.

 

Title: Anatomy of an Unknown: Tips and Tricks for the Structural Elucidation of the most Recent Novel Psychoactive Substances

Presenter: Holly Pierzynski, Manager of Forensic Novel Psychoactive Substance Research,
Cayman Chemical

.Abstract: The proliferation of novel psychoactive substances continues to pose challenges to forensic scientists and the use of GC-MS remains a gold standard for seized drug chemists. This workshop will review resources, tips, tricks and strategies to identify newly emerging designer drugs across several structural classes such as nitazenes, synthetic cannabinoids, and cathinones. We will discuss relevant synthetic routes as they relate to structural feasibility and utilize EI-MS fragmentation patterns to elucidate practical examples.

 

Title: Waters RADIAN-ASAP – Introduction and Application in Seized Drug Analysis

Presenter: Praveen Kumar, Waters Corporation and Karen Lau, Wake County Bureau of
Forensic Services

Abstract: Forensic laboratories that analyze seized drugs face ongoing challenges, including an increase in the number of drugs and the need for faster analysis turnaround times. The RADIAN Atmospheric Solids Analysis Probe-Mass Spectrometry (ASAP-MS) is a benchtop instrument that offers a chromatography-free, rapid screening workflow for seized drug analysis. The first portion of the workshop will cover an overview of the ASAP-MS instrument, site preparation guidelines to ensure optimal performance and safe use, and maintenance tips and tricks. The second portion of the workshop aims to demonstrate how the RADIAN ASAP was incorporated into the seized drug analysis scheme of one forensic drug lab. A variety of case samples will be introduced to show how the RADIAN ASAP has become a valuable part of seized drug analysis. An overview of the LiveID software and spectral library will also be covered.