Ana Pego

Ana Pego is an Assistant Professor in the Sciences Department at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, City University of New York (CUNY), where she teaches undergraduate courses in analytical toxicology and conducts research in forensic toxicology. She holds a PhD in Toxicology from the University of São Paulo and has extensive international academic and industry experience, including positions at Avans University of Applied Sciences and the Dutch Screening Group.

Her educational background includes:

• PhD in Toxicology, University of São Paulo (2014–2018)
• MSc in Forensic Toxicology, University of Glasgow (2012–2013)
• BSc in Forensic Investigation, Glasgow Caledonian University (2008–2012)

Ana's research focuses on advancing forensic toxicology through the development and validation of analytical methods, particularly involving microextraction techniques such as LPME and QuEChERS, and the use of alternative biological matrices like hair. Her work emphasizes the detection and interpretation of drugs of abuse and novel psychoactive substances using state-of-the-art instrumentation including LC-MS/MS and MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. She has extensive experience in postmortem toxicology and hair decontamination protocols.

Her recent scholarly work centers on methodological innovation in toxicological analysis, with publications exploring hair-based drug testing, green extraction techniques, and genetic factors in drug abuse. These studies reflect a strong trend toward improving forensic accuracy, sensitivity, and ethical sample handling.

Notable scientific awards and recognitions include:

• First Class Honors, Glasgow Caledonian University (2012)
• M merit award, University of Glasgow (2013)
• ERASMUS and SAAS scholarships for undergraduate studies
• CAPES full PhD scholarship (2014–2018)
• TIAFT Conference Travel Award (2016)
• IUTOX/SBTOX Fellowship Travel Award (2015)
• Santander Mobility Scholarship (2017)
• Faculty COVID Recovery Award (2023)

Ana has secured multiple grants supporting her research and international presentations. She is an active member of key professional organizations such as the International Association of Forensic Toxicologists (TIAFT), Society of Forensic Toxicologists (SOFT), American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS), and Society of Hair Testing (SoHT). She advises undergraduate students in research and contributes to curriculum development in forensic science education.

Ana has also been a visiting scholar at Maastricht University, where she developed a MALDI-TOF method for capsaicin analysis in single hair strands, and conducted research at UCLA during her PhD. Her interdisciplinary work bridges forensic science, analytical chemistry, and public health.