The 2009 NIJ Funded Forensic Microscopy Program course dates are now available! Click here to view and apply!

Receive FREE microscopy laboratory training at the McCrone Research Institute in Chicago, IL. The week-long hands-on training courses will be taught by full-time, professional educators in basic and advanced topic areas as described below. Forensic scientists employed in state or local crime labs with a basic knowledge of physical trace evidence applications may be eligible. Analysts who want to develop and improve their microscopy skills will benefit from the entire program.

Below is a list of the current training courses scheduled. Eight (8) seats are available in each course. All courses are 5 days long, running Monday-Thursday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m and Friday 8:00 a.m. to noon (12:00 p.m.).

All interested parties must submit one application per student for approval. Applications must be received no later than 14 days before the start of the course.

NIJ Forensic Microscopy Training Program Schedule

Click here for the 2008 NIJ Forensic Microscopy Course Dates

Click here for the 2009 NIJ Forensic Microscopy Course Dates

Applicant Requirements:

1. Employed by a state or local forensic crime laboratory
2. Currently employed as a microscopist, trace/physical evidence analyst or directly related position
3. Have a desire to expand professional knowledge of microscopy in your educational and scientific goals
4. Complete pre-workshop readings and documentation as requested
5. Be willing to actively participate in classroom activities and discussions
6. Be willing to travel to attend training

Download the Course Outlines

Forensic Polarized Light Microscopy: Course Outline
Advanced Forensic Microscopy: Hair & Fibers: Course Outline
Advanced Forensic Microscopy: Paint & Polymers: Course Outline
Advanced Forensic Microscopy: Glass: Course Outline

Prerequisite: The Forensic Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM) course serve as a prerequisite for the advanced courses. Students must complete the Forensic Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM) course or submit proof of competency to the director before an application to the advanced courses will be accepted.

Accommodations:

All reasonable travel expenses will be paid to participants under support of the President’s DNA Initiative. Airfare and hotel arrangements will be prepared by and billed to McCrone Research Institute. Transportation to and from the hotel from the airport and to and from class from the hotel will be arranged. Meals will be paid at the standard state government per diem rates.

Any reasonable travel fees paid by the participant (airport parking, tolls, and other miscellaneous incidentals) will be reimbursed. These costs must have original itemized receipts to be considered reasonable for reimbursement.

In compliance with Titles II and III of the Americans with Disabilities Act, please notify us of any special accommodations needed. If you have any special dietary considerations, please let us know as well.

Funding:

McCrone Research Institute has received federal funds from the National Institute of Justice to provide advanced training to forensic scientists through the President’s Initiative Advancing Justice Through DNA Technology. The project is funded under support of cooperative agreement 2007-DN-BX-K207.

To learn more about the President’s DNA Initiative, visit the official website: http://www.dna.gov

For Further Information:

Contact the training coordinator, Lauren Logan, at:
Phone: 312-842-7100
Fax: 312-842-1078
Email: llogan@mcri.org