The CSI Effect theory asserts that popular TV crime dramas that focus on forensic science, may affect the behavior and expectations of jurors in real-life cases. NIJ has launched an interactive website dedicated to exploring the CSI Effect theory and the myths and facts surrounding forensic evidence presentation in the courtroom.

NIJ is offering a small number of need-based scholarships to attend the 2011 NIJ Conference. The conference itself is free; the scholarships cover accommodations at the conference hotel and provide a $150 per diem. Application deadline is 5:00 pm Eastern time on Friday, March 18, 2011.

The National Forensic Science Technology Center (NFSTC) announced today that it received more than $12 million in Fiscal Year 2010 grants and cooperative agreements from the Department of Justice for new and continuing initiatives and programs in forensic science. The funding will expand training, technology assistance and the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) to improve forensic science across the country.

In partnership with the National Institute of Justice (NIJ), the National Forensic Science Technology Center (NFSTC) is pleased to announce that Footwear/Tire Track Examiner Training will be provided at no cost to eligible applicants . Applications will be accepted from Mon. 7/19/10 through 11:59 pm EDT, Sun. August 22, 2010.

NFSTC recently completed a two-week, hands-on Site Exploitation course for military service members. Participants in the course gained critical skills to identify, prioritize and collect evidence, and perform presumptive testing on powders, explosive materials and controlled substances.