AAFS 2025

S3: Interdisciplinary Symposium: Technology: A Tool for Transformation or Tyranny?

Tuesday, February 18, 2025
1:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Program Description

The 2025 AAFS Annual Scientific Conference's Interdisciplinary Symposium (IDS) spotlights the theme "Technology: A Tool for Transformation or Tyranny?" through a dynamic program of three keynote talks and two engaging panel discussions. The free event brings together leading experts representing all sections of forensic science in a mission to explore how technology shapes the field. IDS keynote speakers are Dr. Joanne Buscaglia from the FBI, Mr. Thomas P. Paonessa Jr. from MITRE, and Mr. Lucas Zarwell from the NIJ. Their presentations will address the integration of cutting-edge technology into forensic operations, the importance of adhering to the scientific method, and the challenges of transitioning innovative research into practical applications.

The first IDS panel, moderated by Dr. Yong Guan, focuses on "Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Forensics" and features insights from Zeno Geradts, JoAnne Buscaglia, Thomas P. Paonessa Jr., Kenneth Aschheim, and Alicia Carriquiry. This session explores the dual role of AI in forensic science — its potential to enhance accuracy and efficiency, alongside ethical concerns such as bias and privacy risks. Speakers detail real-world case studies and emerging AI tools to shed light on the question of whether AI serves as a transformative ally or a potential threat in the pursuit of justice.

The second IDS panel, moderated by Katharine Pope, delves into "Emerging Technologies and Legal Implications" and features insights from Alicia Carriquiry, Lucas Zarwell, Donald Shelton, Katherine Scafide, Nancy Downing, and Sarah Chu. This session explores how advancements in forensic tools transform investigations while raising critical legal and ethical questions. Topics range from probabilistic genotyping and forensic investigative genetic genealogy to policies safeguarding data collected during the criminal process. The entire IDS aims to provide forensic professionals with valuable insights into leveraging technology responsibly while addressing its challenges, fostering a thoughtful and collaborative approach to the future of forensic science across the sections.

Educational Objectives

Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the transformative role of technology in forensic science, critically evaluating its dual capacity as a tool for innovation and a source of ethical and operational challenges. Attendees will learn about advancements in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, their implications for forensic practices, and the evolving legal and societal standards shaping the future of forensic applications.

Impact on the Forensic Science Community

The 2025 IDS aims to provide attendees with an understanding of how emerging technologies are transforming forensic science and its applications in justice. Participants will gain insights into the dual role of artificial intelligence (AI) as both a tool for enhancing accuracy and a potential source of ethical challenges, such as systemic bias and privacy concerns. Presenters will also emphasize the importance of critical thinking and adherence to the scientific method in evaluating technological advancements, as well as the challenges of transitioning research into operational practice. By exploring real-world examples, legal implications, and case studies, attendees will learn how to responsibly adopt and integrate technologies such as probabilistic genotyping, forensic investigative genetic genealogy, and AI tools, while addressing ethical, legal, and practical concerns. Additionally, IDS aims to foster interdisciplinary dialogue on how technology can support victims of violence and uphold justice, ensuring that forensic innovations contribute positively to society.

Program