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Forensic and Investigative Science Explores Partnership with China

Dr. Liu with StudentsLegal systems may differ, but the practice of forensic science is universal. This concept will serve as the foundation for academic and professional education in forensic science across borders. Forensic Science Academy for Professionals Director Kelly Ayers hosted a two-day visit by Dr. Shiquan Liu, police officer and PhD forensic scientist from Beijing. Dr. Liu is currently completing a post-doctoral fellowship at Northwestern University.

The two-day event consisted of tours of departmental facilities on the downtown and Evansdale campuses as well as opportunities to meet with Forensic & Investigative Science faculty and graduate students. Dr. Liu’s fellowship is associated with the Center on Wrongful Convictions at the Northwestern Pritzker School of Law and thus he visited with Associate Professor of Law Valena Beety, Director of the WVU Innocence Project.

Thereafter, Dr. Liu and Ms. Ayers met with representatives of the Office of Global Affairs to discuss agreements related to establishing partnerships with China University of Political Science and Law and People’s Public Security University of China. The agreement would include month-long condensed academic curriculum, online professional education courses, on-site professional training, and a visiting scholar exchange program.

Dr. Liu, in his capacity as the Secretary of a China-United States Joint Forensic Science Center, stated in a follow up letter to the department that “our joint endeavor will lead to a new chapter of the international cooperation between our law enforcement agencies, together with the enhancement of China-U.S. friendship in the field of forensic science and criminal investigation.” After only one visit, Dr. Liu indicated that “West Virginia University feels like home.”