Emerging Expertise: Forensic Microscopy
Introduction
Throughout the course of my college career, I have developed many skills in relation to forensic science. Some skills. such as forensic microscopy, are important skillsets to develop for an upcoming forensic scientist. Forensic Microscopy is a recurring topic that could be applied to many of my honors projects, and I've learned much about it over these past four years. These projects, chosen due to pure interest, showcase my understanding of this topic and what I can apply to it.
Artifact 1: Handwriting Analysis Testing
I completed this honors contract in Fall of 2025 for my Forensic Microscopy Lab course. For this contract, I created a lab procedure to analyze unknown handwriting samples with a stereomicroscope. I preformed the lab procedure, reached conclusions, and compiled the information I gathered into a report.
This project reinforced my understanding of how to use stereomicroscopes in the scope of forensic microscopy. I utilized this knowledge of microscopes to analyze samples and reach conclusions.
Application is no longer available.
Artifact 2: Serology Posters
I completed this honors contract in Fall of 2025 for my forensic biology course. For this project, I compiled testing information regarding serology into a poster format for easy viewing. This was meant to easily view what tests are preformed for what serological fluid.
This project allowed me to explore more of the specifics about tests such as confirmatory testing for semen samples. Semen samples can be identified by visualization with Christmas Tree Staining under a compound light microscope.
Application is no longer available.
Artifact 3: Types of Bias in Forensics
In Spring of 2025, I completed an honors contract in which I had to create and present a presentation that discusses the different types of bias often seen in forensic science.
Although this does not directly involve concepts within forensic microscopy itself, it did give me insight onto what kind of mindset an analyst should have when handling evidence and testing for results. This can be applied to testing such as forensic microscopy, since analysts must attempt to remain unbiased for proper testing.
Application is no longer available.
Overall, all three projects highlight different aspects of forensic microscopy that I have learned over the course of multiple projects. These projects provided a hands-on learning approach that may not have been provided in these specific courses, enhancing my capabilities in this area more. Due to these projects, I have more confidence in discussing these topics among peers and fellow scientists. In addition, I have grown in communication, research, and practical capabilities. Due to these projects, I can apply what I have learned to projects and/or assignments I may have in the future on a professional level.