Dr. Leon Barron is a Reader in Analytical & Environmental Sciences at the School of Public Health, Imperial College London. His expertise spans chemical contaminant analysis, wastewater epidemiology, and environmental forensics. He leads the Emerging Chemical Contaminants team within the Environmental Research Group, focusing on pharmaceuticals, PFAS, and illicit drugs. Education: BSc(Hons) in Analytical Science (2001), PhD in Analytical Chemistry (2005), and a Postgraduate Certificate in Academic Practice (2011). Previously held roles at King's College London as Lecturer (2009–2015) and Senior Lecturer (2015–2020). Research interests include trace environmental analysis (LC, GC, MS), chemical risk assessment, and wastewater-based epidemiology. Key projects include global drug use monitoring via sewage analysis and PFAS removal from drinking water. His work has produced over 100 peer-reviewed articles, with recent focus on PFAS accumulation, biochar filtration, and urban pollution source apportionment. Awards include Fellowships from Royal Society of Chemistry and Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences. Supervises PhD students on topics like pesticide exposure, opioid monitoring, and machine learning in ecotoxicology. Collaborates internationally via initiatives like the Sewage Analysis CORE Group and NIHR HPRU in Environmental Exposures.
Teresa Bonacci is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Sciences at the University of Calabria (UNICAL), where she conducts research and teaches in zoology with a focus on entomology. She is also the Scientific Director of the Zoology Museum within the university's museum system (SIMU). Her academic affiliations include membership in the PhD School of Life Science and Technology and leadership roles in degree program coordination. Laurea in Natural Sciences, University of Calabria PhD in Animal Biology, University of Calabria Socrates/Erasmus Scholarship, University of Kiel, Germany Research Grant (Assegno di ricerca), SSD BIO/05, University of Calabria National Scientific Qualification for Full Professor (I fascia) Her research spans applied and medico-veterinary entomology, forensic entomology, and conservation biology. She investigates saproxylic beetles (e.g., Cucujus spp.), pollinators (bees, flies, beetles), and insect behavior, especially in forensic contexts such as post-mortem interval estimation and myiasis. Her work integrates taxonomy, morphology, ecology, and chemical signaling, often in collaboration with chemists, legal experts, and conservation agencies. She has published extensively in high-impact journals, with over 80 scientific publications and strong citation metrics. The most recent articles reflect a multidisciplinary trend, combining taxonomy, forensic science, biodiversity monitoring, and veterinary entomology. Topics include the discovery of new insect species in Italy, the role of beetles in decomposition, insect damage in cultural heritage, and myiasis in domestic and wild animals. These works highlight her expertise in both fundamental zoological research and practical applications in forensics and conservation. Scientific Contributions: Over 80 scientific publications Scopus h-index: 15; Google Scholar h-index: 20 Key researcher in saproxylic beetle conservation Pioneer in forensic entomology studies in Southern Italy Active collaborator with legal and medical institutions She supervises numerous PhD and master's students and has directed over 90 theses. Her teaching responsibilities include courses in Zoology, Entomology, Forensic Entomology, and Medical-Veterinary Entomology. She is deeply involved in student mentorship, thesis supervision, and academic service, including examination boards and curriculum development. She also leads biodiversity monitoring projects in Calabrian national parks and has contributed to the development of machine learning tools for insect identification. Her research team collaborates with national and international institutions, including the CNR, University of Milan, and forensic pathology units. She leads projects on bioindicators, insect-plant interactions, and the impact of climate change on mountain species. The Zoology Museum under her direction supports both research and public outreach.
Professor Shanlin Fu is a distinguished academic at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), holding the position of Professor in the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences and affiliated with the Centre for Forensic Science. He serves as the Program Director for the Bachelor of Forensic Science program and is a Research Integrity Adviser for the Faculty of Science. With over $10 million in competitive research funding from ARC, NHMRC, and other national and international schemes since 2008, Professor Fu leads the Drugs and Toxicology Group, focusing on developing sensitive methods for clinical diagnosis, therapeutic drug monitoring, and drugs of abuse testing. Professor, UTS School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences (2019-present) Associate Professor, UTS School of Chemistry and Forensic Science (2015-2019) Senior Lecturer, UTS School of Chemistry and Forensic Science (2008-2014) Professor Fu earned his PhD in Medicinal and Pharmaceutical Chemistry from the University of Sydney (1989-1992), an MSc in Phytochemistry from Peking Union Medical College (1982-1985), and a BSc in Biology from Nanjing Normal University (1978-1982). Prior to his academic career at UTS, he served as a Senior Hospital Scientist at the Northern Sydney Area Health Service (2000-2008) and as a Senior Research Scientist at The Heart Research Institute (1993-2000). Professor Fu's research spans analytical chemistry, forensic chemistry, medical biochemistry, pharmacology, pharmaceutical sciences, forensic toxicology, and clinical toxicology. His work focuses on three main areas: Forensic Chemistry concerning identification of drugs of abuse including new psychoactive substances; Forensic Toxicology focusing on detection of drugs in biological matrices for clinical and medico-legal purposes; and Clinical Toxicology aiming to understand mechanisms of substance abuse harms. His research has strong real-world applications, with his patented 'Cathinone Test' already commercialized for law enforcement and potential healthcare settings. Analysis of Professor Fu's recent publications reveals a strong emphasis on developing innovative analytical methods for drug detection, particularly for new psychoactive substances. His work increasingly incorporates multi-omics approaches (metabolomics, lipidomics, proteomics) and machine learning techniques to enhance detection capabilities. There's a clear trend toward translating laboratory research into practical field applications, with numerous color spot tests and portable detection methods being developed for law enforcement use. His research also shows expanding applications in equine doping control and postmortem analysis. Vice-Chancellor's Medal for Research Excellence through Collaboration or Partnership (2023) UTS Teaching and Learning Award for Team Teaching (2022) MAPS Research Translation Award (2022) As a member of the HDR Panel since 2022, Professor Fu actively supervises Masters Research and PhD students in forensic science. His extensive grant portfolio includes leadership of the ARC Research Hub for Integrated Device for End-user Analysis at Low-levels and the Australian Centre for cannabinoid clinical and research excellence (ACRE). He has established key collaborations with Australian Federal Police, NSW Forensic and Analytical Science Service, Racing NSW, and international institutions including University of Copenhagen and University of Dundee. His research impact extends beyond academia through commercialization of detection technologies that improve efficiency and accuracy of illicit drug detection. Professor Fu heads the Drugs and Toxicology Group at the Centre for Forensic Science, which maintains strong industry partnerships with forensic laboratories and law enforcement agencies. His group is currently developing a multiplexer device that can simultaneously detect multiple new psychoactive substances including cathinones, NBOMEs, piperazines, and fentanyl analogues. The group's work bridges fundamental research with practical applications, with several technologies moving from the laboratory to real-world implementation in forensic and healthcare settings.
Dr. Jason Brooks is a Teaching Professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Penn State University and Director of the Forensic Science Program. He holds dual roles as a veterinary pathologist and Deputy Coroner for Centre County, combining medical and legal expertise in forensic investigations. Dr. Brooks is an ACVP Founding Fellow in Veterinary Forensic Pathology and serves on key committees including the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) Standards Board and ACVP Veterinary Forensic Pathology Certification Committee. His research focuses on medicolegal death investigation, gunshot wound pathology, and postmortem interval estimation. He authored the textbook Veterinary Forensic Pathology and contributes to Forensic Science International . His work bridges veterinary medicine with legal systems, addressing wildlife forensics, animal abuse cases, and forensic evidence standards. Professional roles include editorial leadership for Forensic Science International and prior service on the International Veterinary Forensic Sciences Association (IVFSA) board. Awards include ACVP’s Founding Fellow distinction recognizing his foundational contributions to veterinary forensic pathology. Dr. Brooks teaches graduate courses in research foundations and medicolegal death investigation while actively publishing in high-impact journals. His grants and collaborations focus on advancing forensic veterinary methodologies and improving animal crime investigation standards.
Daniel Livingstone is a researcher at The Glasgow School of Art (GSA) specializing in the application of games and 3D technologies to enhance learning and public engagement. His work spans medical visualization, heritage interpretation, and broader educational technology domains. Current PGR supervisee: Shaojie Ni (AR & Gamification in Museums) Email: D.Livingstone@gsa.ac.uk Research Themes : Serious games, virtual reality, 3D anatomical modeling, disease education, digital heritage preservation, and AI-driven simulations. Highlights include AR tools for rheumatology engagement, VR applications in diabetes management, and digital reconstructions of historical surgical instruments. Article Trends : Focus on merging immersive technologies with healthcare education, heritage storytelling, and interdisciplinary applications of game engines. Recurring keywords: Augmented Reality , 3D Visualization , Medical Education , Public Health , Virtual Environments .
Natalie Warburton is an Associate Professor in Zoology at Murdoch University, Australia, affiliated with the Harry Butler Institute and the School of Medical, Molecular and Forensic Sciences, College of Environmental and Life Sciences. She holds a PhD in Zoology (University of Western Australia, 2004), a BSc(Hons) in Zoology (UWA, 1998), and a Graduate Diploma in Education (Murdoch University, 2002). She is also a Research Associate at the Western Australian Museum. Her research focuses on the functional morphology of marsupials, integrating anatomy, ecology, and evolution. Key interests include locomotion adaptations (digging, climbing, bounding), reproductive strategies, and the evolutionary drivers of musculoskeletal systems. Her work bridges extant and extinct species, particularly tree-kangaroos (e.g., Bohra , Congruus ) and marsupial moles. She has pioneered techniques for transferring anatomical insights from living species to fossil analysis, contributing to palaeontological reconstructions. Dr. Warburton has received awards such as the Vice Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Learning and Teaching (2015) and Senior Fellow status from Advance HE (2017). She actively engages in public science communication through podcasts (e.g., 'Aussie Wildlife Show', 'Palaeo Jam') and documentaries (e.g., ABC Catalyst's 'Megafauna'). Her research has produced over 50 peer-reviewed articles, emphasizing skeletal anatomy, muscle function, and evolutionary adaptations. Current projects explore predator escape behaviors in marsupials and the functional morphology of extinct species. She collaborates across disciplines, integrating CT scanning, biomechanics, and comparative anatomy.
Robert Heimer is a Professor of Epidemiology (Microbial Diseases) and Pharmacology at Yale University, with affiliations to the Yale School of Public Health , Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS (CIRA) , and Yale Institute for Global Health . His research focuses on substance use epidemiology , HIV and viral hepatitis prevention , and harm reduction strategies , particularly addressing the opioid crisis through interdisciplinary methods combining laboratory, behavioral, and structural analyses. PhD in Molecular Biology/Pharmacology (Yale University, 1988) BA in Molecular Biology (Columbia College, 1974) His work examines injection drug use consequences , syringe exchange programs , overdose prevention , and pharmacological addiction treatment , with funding from NIH, CDC, and Gilead Foundation. Recent publications analyze spatial overdose patterns , opioid treatment accessibility , and structural stigma in rural healthcare . He has contributed to understanding HIV transmission in Russia and global harm reduction policy . Scientific Awards: Recognized through Annual Research Awards and Career Achievement Awards at Yale School of Public Health. Dr. Heimer directs the Interdisciplinary Research Methods Core at CIRA and conducts fieldwork in Vietnam and Lebanon, addressing cross-border substance use challenges and stigma in marginalized populations . His research informs public health policy and prison-to-community healthcare transitions .
James R Gill is a Clinical Professor of Pathology at Yale School of Medicine and serves as the Chief Medical Examiner of Connecticut. He holds leadership positions including 2021 President of the National Association of Medical Examiners (NAME) and past Chair of the Forensic Pathology Committee at the College of American Pathologists. Dr. Gill specializes in forensic pathology, public health, and autopsy practices, with a focus on pediatric forensic medicine and toxicology. His career includes roles as Deputy Chief Medical Examiner in New York and training at Yale and Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Education: BS from MIT (1988), MD from University of Connecticut (1992), residency at Yale-New Haven Hospital, and forensic fellowship at NYC Office of Chief Medical Examiner. Research Interests: Forensic pathology methodologies, environmental neglect in pediatric deaths, and legal aspects of forensic testimony. Over 100 publications include works on iatrogenic deaths, autopsy protocols, and opioid-related mortality. Publications highlight advancements in toxicology testing for synthetic opioids, pediatric death certification standards, and the impact of cognitive bias in forensic decision-making. His work bridges clinical practice, policy, and academic research in forensic medicine.
Sam Abraham is a Professor at Murdoch University, affiliated with the School of Medical, Molecular and Forensic Sciences and leading the Antimicrobial Resistance and Infectious Disease Laboratory under the Centre for Biosecurity and One Health. His research focuses on antimicrobial resistance (AMR), genomics, and robotics in a One Health framework, bridging human, animal, and environmental health. BSc Zoology (2003–2006), Mahatma Gandhi University, India MSc Biotechnology (2006–2007), University of Wollongong, Australia PhD Microbiology (2008–2012), University of Wollongong His research explores AMR dynamics in production animals, zoonotic pathogens, and environmental reservoirs. Recent work includes robotic surveillance systems for AMR tracking, genomic analysis of livestock pathogens, and interventions for infectious disease control. Notable article trends include robotic AMR detection, pathogen genomics in livestock and wildlife, and interdisciplinary approaches combining virology, microbiology, and computational tools. Sam leads teaching and supervisory initiatives in microbiology and One Health, with projects spanning Australia and international collaborations (e.g., Cambodia, Iraq). His lab develops next-generation platforms for AMR surveillance.
Dr. Francisco Ochoa Corona is a Professor at Oklahoma State University's Department of Entomology & Plant Pathology and the Institute for Biosecurity & Microbial Forensics. His expertise spans forensic plant pathology, agricultural biosecurity, and microbial forensics. He develops diagnostic tools for plant viruses and phytopathogens, focusing on biosecurity threats and emergency management. His research integrates molecular biology, genomics, and field-deployable diagnostics. Education: Agricultural Engineering, Universidad del Zulia, Venezuela M.S. in Plant Protection, University of Central Venezuela Ph.D. in Plant Pathology (Plant Virology), University of Florida Postdoctoral training in Plant Virology at the University of Florida Research Interests: Development of diagnostics for plant viruses and vectors Biosecurity and microbial forensics applications Waterborne plant viruses and arthropod surveillance Emerging pathogens and global disease dynamics EDNA (Electronic-probe Diagnostic Nucleic-acid Analysis) technology Pathogen genomics and molecular signatures Teaching: Courses include Global Agricultural Biosecurity and Forensics, Plant Virology, and Seed Pathology Fundamentals. He employs a 'Coach-Athlete' model emphasizing collaborative learning and problem-solving. Grants & Funding: Leads projects funded by USDA-NIFA, National Institute of Food and Agriculture, and industry partnerships. Recent grants focus on wheat disease resistance, rose rosette disease, and diagnostic tool development. Labs & Teams: Heads a research team advancing EDNA platforms, LAMP assays, and molecular diagnostics. Collaborates with global institutions on biosecurity and plant health initiatives.
Kelly Meiklejohn is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Population Health and Pathobiology at North Carolina State University, joining in January 2018 as part of the Chancellor’s Faculty Excellence Program cluster in Forensic Sciences. Her research integrates molecular biology, taxonomy, and forensic DNA analysis to advance wildlife forensics and forensic casework protocols. Education: B. of Biotechnology Advanced (Hons Class 1) and Ph.D. from the University of Wollongong (Australia) Postdoctoral Training: University of Florida (2013), FBI Laboratory (2017) Meiklejohn’s work focuses on applying massively parallel sequencing (MPS) to forensic scenarios, improving mitochondrial DNA recovery from challenging samples, and developing molecular protocols for non-human biological material. Her recent publications highlight expertise in DNA metabarcoding, non-destructive sampling methods, and forensic geology. Affiliations: Member of Australian and New Zealand Forensic Science Society, American Academy of Forensic Sciences, Society for Wildlife Forensic Science She teaches undergraduate and graduate courses, mentors forensic science students, and leads the Meiklejohn Lab, which specializes in wildlife forensics and environmental DNA analysis.
Dr. Darko Davitkov is a researcher at the Department of Diseases of Ruminants, Carnivores, Poultry and Game within the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade. His academic career spans various clinical and molecular research areas in veterinary medicine, with a focus on parasitic, infectious, and systemic diseases in domestic and wild animals. Veterinary Internal Medicine Molecular Pathology Clinical Parasitology Equine Infectious Diseases Canine Hematology Wildlife Forensic Genetics His research has produced significant publications in journals like Parasites & Vectors and Veterinary Journal , covering topics from DNA-based species identification to oxidative stress in infected animals. While no explicit awards are listed, his work includes book authorship and collaborations on complex clinical cases involving rare diseases and parasitic interactions. Dr. Davitkov's recent work emphasizes parasitology, oxidative stress, and forensic applications in veterinary contexts.
Ted Schwartz is a Lecturer in the Forensic Science Department at the Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice and Forensic Sciences, University of New Haven. With over 30 years of experience as a forensic scientist and 36 years as an educator, he bridges practical expertise and academic instruction. M.S., Forensic Science, University of New Haven (1987) B.S., Forensic and Toxicological Chemistry, West Chester University His research and professional focus spans trace evidence analysis, DNA processing, crime scene investigation, and controlled substances. He has pioneered methods for DNA extraction from teeth, enhanced footwear impression detection using cobalt chloride, and analyzed cable tie evidence. His work frequently integrates forensic chemistry and crime scene reconstruction. As a certified expert by the American Board of Criminalistics, Schwartz has published extensively and presented over 40 papers at conferences. He has also led workshops on fabric impressions, plastic bag comparisons, and trace evidence analysis, shaping practices across forensic disciplines. American Board of Criminalistics certification (ABC-GKE) Fellow of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences Past President of the Northeastern Association of Forensic Scientists He has supervised trace evidence, chemistry, and crime scene units for 18 years and instructed at Western Connecticut State University since 1998, maintaining a long-standing affiliation with the University of New Haven's Forensic Science program.
Jeremy Brownlie is an Associate Professor of Genetics and Evolution at Griffith University's School of Environment and Science, specializing in symbiotic bacteria like Wolbachia and their impact on insect biology. He leads research initiatives addressing insect-borne disease control, agricultural pest management, and human evolution through genomic studies of ancient Australasian populations. His roles include Director of the Griffith Sciences Partnerships Office and Deputy Head of his school, emphasizing external collaborations and policy advocacy. Brownlie holds a PhD from ANU and has secured significant grants, including ARC Discovery Projects, focusing on Wolbachia's antiviral mechanisms and biosecurity applications. His work bridges molecular biology, applied entomology, and human evolutionary studies, with active involvement in science policy through the National Science and Technology Council. Educations: PhD in Genetics, Australian National University (2003) BSc (Hons) in Biological Sciences, Australian National University (1996) Research Interests: Symbiont biology, pest control strategies, Wolbachia-mediated antiviral protection, and genomic analysis of human migration in Southeast Asia/Australia. Key Collaborations: Australian Research Centre for Human Evolution, Environmental Futures Research Institute, and international agricultural agencies. Grants: Over $1.5M in funding from ARC, Griffith University, and industry partners for projects on Wolbachia, biofilm diagnostics, and pest control technologies. Professional Roles: President of Science & Technology Australia (2019–2021), Board Member of the National Science Council, and leader in STEM policy advocacy. Advisory Work: Supervised over 20 PhD/MSc students on topics ranging from Wolbachia genetics to antimicrobial resistance and bioinformatics. His laboratories focus on innovative solutions for global challenges in food security, disease control, and sustainable biotechnology, with interdisciplinary approaches combining genomics, entomology, and clinical microbiology.
Professor Remco Veltkamp holds a faculty position at Utrecht University's Faculty of Science with a focus on Game and Media Technology . As Scientific Director of AI Labs and coordinator of the Utrecht Center for Game Research , his work bridges serious games, virtual reality, and human-centered AI applications. He leads the Dynamics of Youth Hub 'Healthy Play, Better Coping' exploring gaming's role in pediatric chronic illness management. Academic leadership in gaming technology Director of Utrecht's AI Labs Founder of Serious Game Society Editor of International Journal of Serious Games Research spans game design, AR/VR interaction, 3D object recognition, and multimedia systems with applications in: Healthcare gamification Energy conservation Bioinformatics Social behavior analysis Computer vision Recent work includes: 2025: Developing fatigue management therapy games 2024: Analyzing protest dynamics through social media 2023: Creating equine pain assessment systems 2022: Gamification in food sustainability As educator, he teaches Game Programming and Small Project Game and Media Technology , while pioneering applications of gaming in healthcare and education sectors.
