Forensic Sciences students excel at national conference

(July 2, 2025) - Nine Masters of Forensic Sciences students from Laurentian University’s School of Natural Sciences recently showcased their research at the 2025 Canadian Society of Forensic Science (CSFS) conference, held in Toronto (ON) from June 10 to 13, 2025. This national gathering is a cornerstone event in the field, attracting academics and professionals from areas of law, crime scene investigation, and the many fields relating to forensic sciences. 

Accompanied by Dr. James Watterson, Full Professor of Forensic Toxicology, the students demonstrated both professionalism and academic excellence throughout the conference. Two Laurentian students, Kristina Valle (Sudbury, ON) and Shaelyn Maloney (Brampton, ON), were honoured with Best Poster Presentation awards, a significant recognition at one of Canada’s foremost forensic science events. 

Kristina Valle’s presentation, “Evaluation of DNA Recovery from the Quantisal® Oral Fluid Collection Device Following Standard Protocols for Toxicology Testing,” explored critical intersections between DNA analysis and toxicology. “It was wonderful to present my research and see all the interest surrounding the topic,” she said. “The forensics graduate program at Laurentian is truly one of a kind - we not only get to build our knowledge on advancing forensic disciplines, but we also get to have hands-on experiences through our own research.” According to Valle, the success of students in the program is made possible through close collaboration with dedicated faculty supervisors who provide consistent support throughout the research process.

Shaelyn Maloney’s presentation, “Examining Mental Health-Related Healthcare Utilization Among Sexual Assault Survivors,” explored patterns of mental-health related emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and outpatient psychiatry visits of sexual assault survivors in Ontario. “I thoroughly enjoyed learning about all the new research happening in the world of forensic sciences,” said Maloney. “The support at Laurentian University is amazing. My professors have so much knowledge and experience in the forensic science field, as have they been incredibly supportive in assisting the process of finding employment in this field, after graduation.” 

Dr. Malcolm Campbell, Laurentian University’s Provost and Vice-President Academic praised the students’ merit, noting that their success reflects both their personal dedication and the strength of the academic environment. “The consistent success of our students at various scientific conferences throughout the year clearly demonstrates the transformative impact of faculty and staff support, and the quality of the learning environment that is cultivated within Laurentian University’s School of Natural Sciences,” he said. “These accomplishments fill our entire university community with immense pride.” 

“Our students continue to impress us with their talent and dedication, and we are incredibly proud of their accomplishments,” added Dr. Joy Gray-Munro, Dean, Faculty of Science, Engineering & Architecture. “We’re equally proud of the faculty and staff whose commitment to teaching, mentorship, and hands-on learning opportunities empowers students to succeed and thrive.”

Laurentian University remains committed to fostering a hands-on, research-driven academic environment that empowers students to engage with real-world challenges and contribute meaningfully to their fields. The recognition at CSFS 2025 underscores the strength of the University’s Forensic Science programs, and the talent of its emerging scholars.