Steven B Lee

Steven B Lee is a Professor of Justice Studies and Director of the Forensic Science program at San Jose State University. His academic roles include adjunct professorships at Florida International University (Chemistry) and San Francisco State University (Biological Sciences), alongside serving as a Visiting Scholar at UC Berkeley. He holds a PhD in Molecular Biology from UC Berkeley, an MS in Molecular Biology from NYU, and a BS in Biological Sciences from SUNY Binghamton.

Lee’s research focuses on forensic molecular biology, particularly overcoming PCR inhibition, optimizing DNA sampling techniques, and evaluating next-generation sequencing (NGS) for forensic applications. He has pioneered advancements in DNA storage, rapid DNA typing, and forensic database integration with CODIS. His work bridges academic research with practical applications, including roles as former Director of R&D at the CA Department of Justice DNA Lab (1994–2000) and consultant for biotechnology firms.

Notable contributions include over 40 peer-reviewed publications, editor roles for special journal issues on MPS in forensics, and leadership in professional organizations like the American Academy of Forensic Sciences. Awards include the 2006 A.Biasotti Research Presentation Award and Fellow status in the Criminalistics Division. His teaching spans forensic DNA analysis courses at SJSU, UC Davis, and FIU, emphasizing cutting-edge methodologies and ethical considerations.

Lee’s professional service includes FBI Technical Working Group membership (1994–2000), laboratory accreditation inspections, and contributions to microbial forensics training. His current work emphasizes NGS validation and forensic genomics, reflecting a commitment to advancing both scientific rigor and real-world crime-solving applications.