Forensic Science

Our Forensic Science Center will offer lab space, an autopsy suite, a trauma research lab, and classrooms. It will facilitate collaboration between law enforcement and researchers, enhancing crime scene understanding and investigative techniques. Located in Florida, the center will provide unique opportunities for mastering evidence collection, processing, and interpretation.

Forensics Center for Research and Education

The Thomas Varnadoe Forensics Center for Research and Education, named in honor of one of the victims of the Dozier School for Boys, is poised to become an all-inclusive forensic research hub at F1RST. This cutting-edge facility will encompass comprehensive lab space, a state-of-the-art autopsy suite, a cooler, and a unique donated skeletal collection integrated with a trauma research lab. Additionally, the center will boast modern classrooms and supports two dedicated forensic research fields on-site. By creating an environment where law enforcement professionals work closely with researchers, the center will aim to enhance the understanding of crime scenes and integrate the latest investigative techniques. This collaboration ensures that investigators are highly skilled in the collection, processing, and interpretation of evidence.

Unique Environmental Context

The geographical location of F1RST’s Campus and its forensic fields is a significant asset, setting it apart from similar research institutions in Tennessee, Texas, North Carolina, Illinois, and Colorado. Florida's distinctive soils, vegetation, and climate provide a unique context for forensic anthropology research, filling a crucial knowledge gap. The facilities enable researchers, investigators, and crime scene technicians to develop and refine methods for critical investigative processes, including managing large-scale mass disasters involving criminal acts, identifying unknown homicide victims and missing persons, locating clandestine burials, and identifying trace evidence in outdoor crime scenes. Importantly, the methodologies developed here are directly relevant to the local environment, ensuring practical applicability in real-world scenarios.

Multidisciplinary Collaboration

F1RST champions a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach to forensic and scientific research at the F1RST Campus. The facility will integrate expertise from diverse fields such as anthropology, medicine, geology, chemistry, biochemistry, engineering, and entomology. Students across these disciplines will use the center to standardize forensic science practices and drive the development of innovative methods and technologies. The center will also host workshops and training sessions for professionals in the law enforcement and medico-legal communities, promoting industry best practices.

Advancing Forensic Science

By bringing together all forensic disciplines under one roof and leveraging specialized resources and subject matter experts, The F1RST Campus ensures that law enforcement remains abreast of the rapid advancements in forensic science. This integration allows for the swift application of newly acquired knowledge, skills, and capabilities in the field, making significant strides in the ongoing pursuit of justice and the advancement of forensic science.