Young Forensic Scientists Forum

Education, Training, and Experiences: The Ingredients to Make Science Work!

Tuesday, February 14, 2023. 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. CE Hours: 6.75

Impact Statement

After attending this session, attendees will better understand how forensic science has evolved over the years and how every forensic science discipline impacts and enhances the field regardless of one's experience and background.In addition, attendees will learn the importance of education, extensive training, and innovative scientific research. Finally, attendees will learn about the "science" behind job interviewing and become adept in resume building in the forensic sciences.

Program Description

This year the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) is celebrating 75 years of global engagement. The overall theme of the conference is Science Works. In the past few years, science and the scientific method have been under attack, denigrated, and dismissed. AAFS President Laura Fulginiti's plan is to offer scientific content demonstrating that forensic science provides trustworthy, objective data that can be relied upon by the judicial system, Congress, and the public. Our Special Session theme, Education, Training, and Experiences: The Ingredients to Make Science Work!, was chosen to invigorate young forensic scientists and demonstrate how education and training play a vital role in making forensic science work. This full-day session will show young forensic scientists that their contribution matters and that the decisions they make today can have a positive impact on the scientific community at large.

This year the YFSF is excited to present an outstanding group of speakers. These distinguished presenters have been carefully selected to provide exceptional mentorship to attendees through topics such as how to stay true to science, present results in a scientifically correct and neutral manner, manage high-profile cases, and interact with prosecutors and defense attorneys. The session will also include thoughtful demonstrations on assessing one's professional goals, establishing what success looks like for a young forensic scientist, and thinking about one's responsibilities as a mentor and leader as they advance into a career.

The YFSF Special Session provides an inclusive atmosphere for young forensic scientists to have the opportunity for professional growth/development and scientific engagement with esteemed colleagues. Through these presentations, attendees will hear from experienced practitioners as they discuss their extensive education, training, and experiences that have led to success in their field of study. These presentations include case-driven research, innovative methodology, scientific studies, and personal stories.Additionally, each presenter will include thoughtful discussions on their struggles and setbacks that have ultimately made "science work." Through this session, the YFSF aims to integrate young professionals into the field as they begin their journey into forensic science. The YFSF offers two additional opportunities for young professionals and students: the Bring Your Own Posters (BYOP) Session and the Bring Your Own Slides (BYOS) Session. We are excited to announce that this year we have collaborated with The Center for Forensic Science Research and Education (CFSRE) to honor and award two outstanding scientists for their contributions to forensic science. Finally, the session will end with a resume review workshop, so do not forget to update your resume and bring several printed copies with you to the session!