The Institute of Forensic Science at the University of Toronto Mississauga utilizes a variety of cutting-edge research laboratories representing the diverse subfields of our discipline.
Forensic Biology and Genetics Research Lab
Jamie McGregor, Lab Technician
The Forensic Biology Research Lab at the Institute of Forensic Sciences employs cutting-edge technology to provide concrete answers to some of the biggest questions asked in forensic casework. From serological evidence testing to results generation using powerful technologies like the MiSeq FGx, the lab and its researchers have embarked on many successful projects, with accompanying publications in journals like Genes and Forensic Genomics. The lab’s research focuses in several areas:
- Presumptive serological testing of bodily fluids, with an emphasis on emergent methods, sensitivity and specificity, and applications in forensic casework
- DNA extraction and quantification methods, including validation and optimization
- PCR and real-time PCR
- Capillary electrophoresis and the validation of novel instruments, such as the SeqStudio™ Genetic Analyzer, for both STR genotyping and chain-terminative (Sanger) sequencing
- Massively-parallel sequencing (MPS) technologies for STR sequence-based genotyping, SNP genotyping and phenotype prediction, and mitochondrial DNA sequencing
- Population genetics; characterizing the genetic variation in the Canadian population in order to improve the accuracy of match statistics
All research in the lab is undertaken with ethics and biosafety at top of mind, with sensitivity to the subject matter and conscientious research design. With the advent of DNA analysis, forensic biology has become a focal point in the science of solving crimes. The lab strives to continuously push the limits of the technology in order to improve outcomes for the true stakeholders in criminal justice – victims, their families, and the communities which we serve.
Forensic Anthropology Teaching & Analysis Lab
The Forensic Anthropology Analysis lab provides students with hands-on experience in real-world forensic case analysis, offering both undergraduate and graduate students the opportunity to contribute directly to the identification of unknown individuals. This experiential learning environment bridges classroom knowledge with practical application, preparing students for careers in forensic science.
Dr. Tracy Rogers is a leading forensic anthropologist whose extensive casework experience and expertise in skeletal identification make her an essential figure in the Forensic Anthropology Research Laboratory. Her work on high-profile investigations, innovative research in skeletal analysis and crime scene documentation, and commitment to student mentorship drive the lab’s impact in both academic and applied forensic science.
Forensic Chemistry Teaching Lab
Agata Gapinski-Serwin, Lab Technician
In conjunction with the Chemistry Undergraduate Laboratories, the application of forensic perspectives allow us to offer both forensic chemistry undergraduate courses and research opportunities to our students. The chemistry lab consists of two large laboratories (DV3065 & DV3075), servicing laboratory courses and providing instrumentation facilities to research groups and graduate students.
The department has seven lab technical staffs and teaching assistants who are readily available while the labs are running.
Forensic Toxicology Research Lab
Description Coming Soon
Forensic Crime Scene House
Agata Gapinski-Serwin, Lab Technician; Murray Clayton, Program Officer
Canada's premiere forensic program wouldn't be complete without the premiere experiential simulation lab, the CSI House!
Nested in the Erindale forest on the UTM Campus, the Forensic Crime Scene House (sometimes affectionately referred to as the 'Murder House') is an integral part of the Institute. In addition to a space for students to practice skills and techniques, the house is utilized by upper year students and faculty for independent research.
Whether examining rates of mould growth of pig cadavers, measuring bone erosion caused by fluvial movement, or simply refining ridge pattern collection techniques, the house supports a wide variety of unique research!
Learn more about our CSI House, and watch feature videos and tours here.
Forensic Vehicular Reconstruction Lab
Agata Gapinski-Serwin, Lab Technician; Murray Clayton, Program Officer
Image coming soon.
In response to the increasing breadth of forensic investigative techniques and evidence collection processes, the Forensic Vehicular Reconstruction Lab was designed specifically to meet the unique educational needs that cannot be replicated in a traditional classroom setting.
Consisting of a garage for car analysis, a teaching classroom, and a chemical analysis lab, students are able not only to investigate vehicular scenes, but also take the evidence back to the adjacent lab for analysis.