Complete Training – From the Classroom to the Crime Scene

Practitioners not only need a firm understanding of the science behind forensics, they need the hands-on training to properly collect, handle and analyze evidence that could prove crucial to an investigation. NFSTC provides extensive training facilities that cater to each facet of forensics education. From multimedia classrooms to mock crime scenes, NFSTC provides the training tools and environments to ensure a compelling, effective learning experience.

Training Classrooms

NFSTC has five classrooms on site to accommodate instructor-led courses. All classrooms are equipped with LCD projectors, wireless Internet access, and can be supplied with laptop computers as needed. In addition, a multimedia classroom is enhanced with an audio/video studio and special lighting so workshops and presentations can be conveniently recorded for multimedia delivery. 

State-of-the-Art Training Labs

NFSTC provides four training laboratories where students can gain hands-on experience with a full range of advanced analytical equipment. Lab facilities include: 

Two sample screening rooms
• Five alternate light source units
• -80° freezer

Dark Room
• Special Lighting
• Chemical hood

Spectroscopy Room
• UV/Vis Spectrometers
• FT/IR Spectrometers with ATR

Two Post-Amp Rooms
• Genetic Analyzers
• Biosafety hood
• Plate centrifuge
• Thermal cyclers
• Real-time PCR system

Laboratory Classroom
• Can accommodate 15 student benches

Chemistry Instrument Room
• GC-FID with Autosampler
• Ion Trap GC-MS-MS with autosampler
• Quadrupole GC-MS-MS with autosampler
• Chemical Fume Hood
• Analytical Balances
• HPLC
• Water Bath

Wet Lab
• PCR Hoods
• Chemical Fume Hoods
• Autoclaves
• Ultra-pure water system
• pH meters
• Oven
• UV light box
• Water bath

Real-world Scenarios, Life-like Settings

NFSTC’s flexible training space can be configured to simulate a variety of settings for the warfighter or crime fighter. Whether participants need to acquire the skills to collect and preserve evidence from a terrorist hideout or a residential crime scene, NFSTC provides extensive facilities specially designed to facilitate hands-on, scenario-based training.

Crime scene investigation – Customizable rooms can be setup to provide exercises for collection of DNA and pattern evidence for various types of investigations.

A vehicle used for explosives investigation

Firearms examiner training – A mobile firing range is on site for live fire testing of weapons and analysis of projectile patterning.  

Explosives training – Numerous vehicles in a variety of pre- and post-blast states are available for scenarios involving explosives and drug possession.

Sensitive site exploitation – An array of environments can be simulated to prepare warfighters for the demands of in-theatre forensic investigations. In addition, a mobile forensics laboratory is available on site for exercises involving the collection and analysis of digital and biological evidence and the development of actionable intelligence.

Biological screening workshops – In 2009 and 2010, NFSTC delivered a series of biological screening workshops for entry-level crime scene examiners. The workshops were designed to provide trainees with knowledge, skills and hands-on exerience in the identification, collection and preservation of biological evidence. NFSTC presented a poster on biological screening training at the 2010 National Institute of Justice conference.