Forensics Experts Keen to Improve the Field

Duquesne University hosted a forum today on the importance of increased research and accreditation in the field of forensic science. Scientists from across the nation spoke on a recent National Academy of Sciences report that made recommendations to improve the field.

NAS committee member Geoffrey Mearns of Cleveland State University says forensic scientists need to do more and better research. He says the Senate Judiciary Committee is looking into a federal regulatory agency would help this problem by certifying forensics officials. But Mearns says research isn’t the only problem plaguing the field. He says more communication is necessary to reconcile science and law.

Mearns says the NAS report and its recommendations have met little resistance in all the communities concerned. He says this broad support is the base that will allow the NAS and the federal government to improve the field.