UTM Forensic Science allowed me to give back to the community, reach youth at risk, and inspire new generations to consider the many applications of science to the legal system.
Jeremy Goslin, HBSc. Forensic Psychology, 2025
During my time at UTM, I had the amazing opportunity to network with professionals in the forensic community and attend a variety of events specifically designed for students in my program.
Thu Le, HBSc. Forensic Anthropology, 2024
My favourite forensic experiences at UTM include the stories and case studies from my professors. To be able to hear their first-hand experiences was always my favourite part of lectures.
Jocelyn Huang, HBSc. Forensic Science and Biology Major, 2020
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 science to the law and recent medico-legal investigations.
UTM hosts the oldest and most well-established 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!
Faculty Compliment
Our courses are taught by active professionals who bring their own expertise and unique field experience to the classroom.
The IFS faculty consists of highly trained individuals, with up-to-date perspectives of both the academic and the professional landscape.
Tracy Rogers
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-profile 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.
Vivienne Luk
As a scientist at the Centre of Forensic Sciences in Toronto, Dr. Luk 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.
Karen Woodall
After many years as a toxicologist at the Centre of Forensic Sciences in Toronto, Dr. Woodall remains an active consultant in forensic toxicology, 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.
Rasmus Larsen
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 scientific issues in mental health research.
Sonya McLaren
Research on justice-impacted change, with a specific focus on implications for decision-making and policy, including rehabilitation, risk assessment, program evaluation, mental health, and extreme violence in correctional contexts. Dr. McLaren’s doctoral research contributed to evidence-based practices in the correctional system.
Christina Lamparter
Dr. Lamparter completed her MSc in Biochemistry and PhD in Pharmacology and Toxicology at Queen’s University. In addition to her strengths in research and teaching, Christina brings a wealth of professional experience from her practice as a Forensic Toxicologist at the Centre of Forensic Sciences since 2016.
James Morrow
A forensic biologist whose career bridges rigorous academic research and applied forensic science practice, at the intersection of evolutionary biology and molecular genetics fields. Dr. morrow brings casework experience combined with a substantial scholarly foundation in molecular biology, evolutionary genetics, and visual pigment biochemistry.
Caitlin Pakosh
An Assistant Crown Attorney in Newmarket, and the author of the award-winning book, “The Lawyer’s Guide to the Forensic Sciences”. Prior to joining the Ministry of the Attorney General, Caitlin spent six years as a criminal defense lawyer at Innocence Canada, working exclusively on homicide cases from across Canada.
For a full faculty list, please visit our Faculty & Staff pages to learn more.
State of the Art Learning Facilities
Hidden within the woods on campus, our Forensic Science "CSI House" is where classroom theory becomes reality. This dedicated, fully furnished residential crime scene facility lets students process realistic, immersive investigations from the ground up.
Imagine mapping blood spatter across living room walls, dusting for latent fingerprints on everyday furniture, and hunting hidden ultraviolet traces in unscripted, high-stakes scenarios. It is an unmatched facility for hands-on learning.
The CSI House transforms aspiring scientists into seasoned investigators before graduation, offering an unforgettable edge that makes UTM the right choice for a forensic degree.
To see our other lab and study spaces, visit our Facilities Page.
Beyond the classroom
The Institute for Forensic Sciences values experiences that extends far beyond traditional lectures and laboratory work, equipping students with the tools needed to thrive as future scientists, be competitive in the professional job market.
Your four years in Forensic Science at UTM gives you more than just a degree! It provides the foundation for adaptable, community focused leaders that are prepared to make a significant impact in the world.
Experiential Learning
Students step directly into the world of forensic science through hands-on simulations and immersive field recreation experiences, like the Forensic Anthropology Field School, and the Forensic Identification Field School.
We also offer many networking opportunities like our Coffee with a Cop series, or alumni networking nights.
Professional Development
We bridge the gap between academia and industry. Undergraduates build robust professional identities through specialized workshops like our Level Up! series, networking opportunities with practicing experts, and workshops tailored to resume building and career strategy, ensuring they graduate workforce ready.
Community Outreach
Through dedicated community outreach initiatives, students translate complex scientific concepts into fun activities and presentations for the public. Engaging with all kinds of science-interested groups, including youth, high schoolers, community groups and demographic organizations, our forensic students have the opportunity to learn how to make the science they're studying accessible and inspiring to others.
Personal & Social Growth
Collaborating in high-stakes, multi-disciplinary team environments fosters resilience, ethical reasoning, and vital interpersonal skills. Students develop confidence, leadership capabilities, and a strong sense of professional ethics as they navigate complex scenarios together.
Our small student cohorts also make it easy to feel like a community and share the journey together!
