Department News

The Forensic and Investigative Science department welcomed 241 first-time freshmen and 8 new graduate students this fall. The faculty and staff would like to welcome our new students and wish them all the best!

U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today met with students and faculty of West Virginia University’s (WVU) Department of Forensic and Investigative Science. During the visit, Senator Capito received an overview of the program, and learned more about the university’s plans to use recent funding through a Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) request she secured to support the purchase of new equipment. Click here to watch a video recap of Senator Capito’s visit.

“WVU’s continued recognition as an R-1 institution reinforces that the work happening in Morgantown is on par with any higher education institution in the nation, and the Department of Forensics and Investigative Sciences is no exception,” Senator Capito said. “Leaders at WVU stressed the importance of updated equipment to me, and I’m proud to use my role in the U.S. Senate to help deliver the resources needed to enhance this critical program, which has the potential to lead to breakthroughs that will save lives and curb crime.”

Earlier in the day, Senator Capito joined MetroNews Talkline Host, Hoppy Kercheval and WVU’s Dr. Ali Rezai for a MetroNews Talkline special on Alzheimer’s disease. Click here for a full recap on that extended interview.

Three FIS Graduate Students Awarded Scholarships from the International Association for Identification

National Institute of Justice Forensic Technology Center of Excellence 

WVU’s FIS Department wishes to thank Mark Lambert (Director of WVU Extension Fire Service) and his firefighters for hosting some controlled burns at the WV State Fire Academy at the end of the spring 2022 semester. Students in Prof. Edwards’ Crime Scene Investigation II class (FIS 402) processed the scenes and collected fire debris samples in special evidence cans. Students in Prof. Jackson’s Arson and Explosives Analysis class (FIS 451) later analyzed the debris samples to test for the presence of ignitable liquids. Such educational and enriching experiences help elevate WVU’s FIS program from our peers.

Congratulations WVU FIS class of 2022 grads!! 

WVU Ranked #3!

Cara Shaffer named Westmorland County's first female deputy coroner

Our undergraduate student in Forensic Chemistry, Jessica Friedel, was selected to present her research “Responding to gun violence epidemic through technology innovation and statistical interpretations for forensic investigations” at the 2022 Undergraduate Research Day at the Capitol (URDC) in Charleston, WV. URDC's purpose is to familiarize state legislators with research and creative activities involving undergraduate students that occur on campuses across the state.