This seminar series titled “Careers in Homeland Security and Forensic Science” is being conducted both in person at the Miami-Dade College, Homestead campus and virtually to increase interest among students in forensic science and Homeland Security (HS) related research and careers. This seminar will focus on career planning within the fields of forensic science and homeland security and will provide students insights into the various career pathways available in these fields, highlighting personal career trajectories, internship opportunities, and job application processes.

Attendees will hear from distinguished speakers, including professors, scientists from federal agencies, and industry experts, who will share their experiences and advice. The day will offer a blend of in-person and virtual presentations, ensuring a wide reach and engagement. This seminar is designed to inspire and inform students, especially those from underrepresented groups, about the exciting and impactful career opportunities in Forensic Science and Homeland Security.

This seminar is part of a series under a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) Scientific Leadership Award (SLA) grant, "Transforming Forensic Chemistry Education and Research to Serve the Homeland Security Enterprise and Establish a Diverse Workforce."

Please email forensics@fiu.edu with any questions.

DHS Grant No. 23STSLA00012-01-00

Agenda:
8:30 – 8:45: Introduction
• Topic: Welcome participants; briefly introduce DHS and forensic science and outline the seminar’s objectives.
• Host and moderator: Dr. Lauryn DeGreeff, Professor, Global Forensic and Justice Center, Florida International University
8:45 – 9:35: Keynote speaker
• Topic: Personal career trajectory and experiences
• Speaker: Dr. Bruce McCord, Professor, Global Forensic and Justice Center, Florida International University
9:35 – 10:00: Guest speaker
• Topic: Internships and personal experience
• Speaker: Dr. Janet Crespo-Cajigas, Visiting Scientist, FBI Lab Division
10:00 – 10:20: Break
10:20 – 11:00: Guest speaker (virtual)
• Topic: USAJobs applications
• Speaker: Ms. Katherine Kovar, Engagement Specialist, USAJOBS 11:00 – 11:25: Guest speaker
• Topic: Job opportunities with Customs and Border Protection
• Speaker: Mrs. Dennise Montero, Branch Chief, Laboratories and Scientific Services U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Miami Forward Operating Laboratory (FOL)
11:25 – 11:50: Guest speaker (virtual)
• Topic: Role of Science in the United States Secret Service
• Speaker: Dr. Katylynn Beltz Sloan, Chemist, Technical Security Division, U.S. Secret Service
11:50 – 12:00: Conclusion
• Topic: Summarize key takeaways; announce any follow-up actions (survey) or resources.
• Moderator: Dr. Lauryn DeGreeff