Forensic Science is a broad subject that encompasses many different fields of study, such as anthropology, biology, chemistry, and psychology. One unifying theme is the application of such fields to legal matters.
UTM hosts the oldest forensic science program in Canada. Throughout its development and growth, the Institute has made very important ties with forensic science institutions world-wide. Such agencies provide students with research and work experience; valuable tools that not only emphasize the learning experience but also help students develop their curriculum vitae in their undergraduate career.
Our Mission
As Canada's first academic Forensic Science program, the Institute of Forensic Sciences set the standards for all subsequent Canadian forensic programs that flourished in the wake of the CSI phenomenon. Our vision for the future is to continue our pioneering role in this country and to extend our influence abroad.
In addition to providing a strong scientific foundation for our students, the UTM Institute of Forensic Sciences is leading the field in the visualization of scientific evidence. Capturing, archiving, analysing, interpreting, and demonstrating crime scene evidence can be facilitated with imaging technology and incorporated into daily practice by forensic professionals.
The Institute of Forensic Sciences is uniquely suited to offer this innovative approach to forensic science instruction through our collaborations with agencies and institutions such as the Centre of Forensic Sciences in Toronto; the Ontario Forensic Pathology Services; York, Peel, Halton, and Toronto Police Services; the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, and more!
Why choose the University of Toronto Mississauga for Forensic Science?
Courses are taught by professionals who bring their own expertise and unique field experience to the classroom. Our faculty consists of highly trained individuals; for example:
- Dr. Tracy Rogers, Forensic Anthropology, is best known for her work as the lead forensic anthropologist at Canada's largest crime scene, the Pickton pig farm investigation, as well as several other high profle investigations in which her students were given opportunities to contribute. Dr. Rogers is also a forensic consultant for the Ontario Forensic Pathology Service, and the Office of the Chief Coroner of Ontario.
- Dr. Vivienne Luk, Forensic Chemistry, came to UTM from the Centre of Forensic Sciences in Toronto, where she worked as a Forensic Toxicologist. She analyzed biological samples for the presence of drugs, alcohol and poisons and interpreted toxicological findings for the purposes of medical and legal investigations, with court experience as an expert witness in impaired driving cases, homicides and sexual assaults.
- Dr. Karen Woodall, Forensic Toxicology, comes to UTM from the Centre of Forensic Sciences in Toronto, as a forensic toxicologist, teaching the forensic toxicology and professionalism courses. Her current research topics include deaths due to fentanyl abuse and the role of drugs in motor vehicle fatalities. She also regularly provides lectures and training to police officers in the role of forensic toxicology in various criminal investigations.
- Dr. Christina Lamparter, Forensic Toxicology, is a practicing forensic toxicologist with experience in non-criminal and criminal toxicology casework, expert testimony in forensic toxicology for criminal and non-criminal cases, as well as client and scientist training. Her active networks include the Centre of Forensic Sciences, the Toronto Drug Checking group, the Ontario Forensic Pathology Service and Health Canada Drug Analysis Service.
- Dr. Rasmus Rosenberg Larsen, Forensic Psychology, holds a Ph.D. in philosophy from University at Bu alo, New York, focusing on mental health research, moral psychology, and biomedical ontology. His current project involves studies of the theoretical validity of clinical construct, and psychopathy as a mental disease. Rasmus can be found teaching topics regarding the psychology of violence and antisocial conduct as well as foundational philosophical and scienti c issues in mental health research.
For a full faculty list, please visit our Faculty & Staff pages to learn more.
