When it comes to protecting our nation and its people, law enforcement, homeland security and other agencies rely on a wide range of national security disciplines, including the specialized field of forensic science. Safety and security threats, such as terrorist attacks, call for high-level skills in examining physical evidence, interpreting data and making science-based determinations to mitigate future threats. ORAU helps strengthen our nation’s defenses by aiding government agencies and law enforcement in their mission to protect citizens and stop threats to communities. To take a deeper look, here are four ways we can learn from forensic science:
1. Analysis
ORAU helps strengthen our nation’s defenses by aiding government agencies and law enforcement in a variety of ways. ORAU provides forensic science expertise in several areas, including analysis. ORAU forensic science experts perform analytical services, such as processing and examining evidence and materials, including chemical analyses, DNA, firearms and toolmarks, latent prints, trace evidence, and forensic photography. These services provide the assistance law enforcement and other agencies need to make their job more efficient.
2. Laboratory Operations
In addition to analytical services, our team can manage all areas of laboratory operations including evidence and materials management, analytical protocol and methodology, research, competency and proficiency processes, information technology, and quality management systems. We specifically support forensic science initiatives at the U.S. Department of Justice and U.S. Department of Defense. Together with law enforcement, national security professionals and intelligence community staff, our team forms a multidisciplinary operation focused on the recovery, analysis, identification, coordination, and management of evidence, materials, and devices. With technology constantly evolving, our team continues to stay on the forefront in order to deliver quality service to our clients.
3. Education and Training
With all the support that ORAU provides to customers in the realm of forensic science, our team also holds education sessions for those who are looking to enhance their skills. Our capabilities in forensic science education and training include scene management and investigation, with an emphasis on recognition, documentation, collection, and preservation of evidence and materials. While it’s important to assist agencies who are in the field, it’s crucial to properly train the next generation workforce to stay ahead in the game.
4. Consultations
As a consulting team, ORAU subject matter experts provide technical guidance and customized solutions in the areas of scene management and investigative protocols, examination protocol and methodology review, guidance and support, laboratory management, quality assurance, evidence and materials management, laboratory facility development and access to subject matter expertise. For example, when an improvised explosive device detonates, the remaining pieces may hold clues about who created the device as well as the movement of their organization. Helping catch these terrorists ultimately saves the lives of our service men and women in combat zones.
Would you like to learn more about ORAU’s Forensic Science Services? Take a look at our website and contact us with any questions that you may have!