2025 Interdisciplinary Symposium
The 2025 AAFS Annual 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. JoAnn 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 application.
The first IDS panel, moderated by Dr. Yong Guan, focuses on "Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Forensics" and features insights from Zeno Geradts, JoAnn 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.
Attendance fee for AAFS-IDS has been waived for all meeting attendees. All meeting attendees are welcome and encouraged to attend.
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