Research in Forensic and National Security Sciences
The Forensic and National Security Sciences Institute is poised to bridge gaps identified in a 2009 report by the National Academy of Sciences, "Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States: A Path Forward". The report calls on Congress to correct serious deficiencies in the nation's forensic science system through new research and major systemic reforms. The Institute's four centers were created to address areas of national need:
Center for Bioforensics, Biosecurity, & Biometrics (CB3)
This area has recently been identified by NVS, an outside consulting firm to provide guidance to the development of FNSS at SU, as an arena of great national need, very limited competition, and one where SU has important capacities. We have deep research strengths in areas that would centrally contribute to this work and, while the DoJ, DHS, and DoD are vitally interested in such work, thus far no University-based center has been established nationally to work with the DHS and others. Additionally, many other agencies are grappling with topics that would be central to the CB3 mission and are excellent collaborative and funding targets for this center. We have recently been fortunate to appoint a nationally prominent researcher and leader, Dr. Kevin Sweder, board-certified toxicologist and former head of genetic toxicology for Bristol Myers-Squibb, to lead our efforts in this arena.
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Center for Scientific Research in Forensic and National Security Sciences (CSR)
-Unique research with an impact on a national stage;
-Potential for significant income to be derived to SU from grants and contracts, both through direct F&A recovery and also by supporting University research infrastructure and boosting total SU research spending;
-Provide a stable and very large market for our graduates with the likelihood of placing them quickly into decision-making governmental and state positions;
-Very limited competition from other universities in FNSS;
-Change in political climate recently in the Obama Administration to strongly support Universities moving into these areas of creative research – these areas are in the congressional and executive branch’s “sights” for strategic development;
-Significant new SU Advancement opportunities (endowments not only from alumni but also from those interested in social justice and national security);