LIVE Webinar Series
WHEN:
Dr. John Butler - Thursday, May 14th, 2026 from 12pm - 1:30pm ET
Dr. Susan Walsh - Wednesday, June 3rd, 2026 from 1pm - 2:30pm ET
Dr. Walther Parson - Wednesday, June 17th, 2026 from 1pm - 2:30pm ET
Dr. Turi King - TBD
Dr. Ed Green - TBD
CeCe Moore - TBD
We are thrilled to bring you, Forensic DNA Dialogues: Conversations with Leaders in Forensic Genetics, a live webinar series that will feature in-depth conversations with internationally recognized leaders who have shaped the development and application of forensic DNA technologies. The invited guests represent some of the most influential scientists working in forensic genetics today. Through exclusive interviews hosted by Charla Marshall, participants will gain rare insight into the thinking and experiences of these pioneers and have the opportunity to pose their own questions during live Q&A sessions.
Confirmed Sessions Include:
Episode 1 - May 14th, 2026 at 12pm ET with Dr. John Butler
The Science Behind Forensic DNA Standards
Dr. John Butler has played a central role in shaping modern forensic DNA analysis through his work at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), authorship of foundational textbooks, and leadership in international standardization efforts.
In this inaugural episode of Forensic DNA Dialogues, Dr. Butler discusses the evolution of forensic DNA technologies—from early STR typing to modern sequencing approaches—and the scientific and policy decisions that established the standards used in laboratories worldwide.
The conversation will explore his research journey, his approach to communicating complex science, and the process behind creating some of the most influential educational resources in forensic genetics.
Episode 2 - June 3rd, 2026 at 1pm ET with Dr. Susan Walsh
DNA Phenotyping and the Genetics of Human Appearance
Dr. Susan Walsh is a leading researcher in forensic DNA phenotyping, the field focused on predicting externally visible characteristics from genetic data. Her work has contributed to the development of DNA-based tools that help investigators infer traits such as eye color, hair color, and ancestry from forensic samples.
In this episode of Forensic DNA Dialogues, Dr. Walsh discusses the scientific foundations of DNA phenotyping, the challenges of translating research into operational forensic tools, and the ethical considerations surrounding the use of predictive genetics in investigations.
The session will also explore her academic career and research leadership.
Episode 3 - June 17th, 2026 at 1pm ET with Dr. Walther Parson
Mitochondrial DNA and the Power of Scientific Collaboration
Dr. Walther Parson is a global leader in mitochondrial DNA research and forensic genomics. As head of the Institute of Legal Medicine at the Medical University of Innsbruck, he has contributed extensively to the development of international mtDNA databases, population studies, and sequencing technologies used in forensic identification.
In this episode of Forensic DNA Dialogues, Dr. Parson discusses the evolution of mitochondrial DNA analysis, the importance of global collaboration in forensic science, and the process of building large-scale research initiatives and scientific publications.
The conversation will also explore his academic career path and lessons learned from leading international research teams.
Date and Time TBD - Dr. Turi King
Solving Historical Mysteries with DNA
Dr. Turi King is widely known for applying DNA analysis to historical investigations, including the identification of King Richard III. Her work combines genetics, genealogy, and historical research to answer long-standing questions about the past.
In this episode of Forensic DNA Dialogues, Dr. King discusses how forensic genetic techniques are used to investigate historical cases, identify remains, and reconstruct past events. She will also share insights into communicating science through media, public engagement, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
The discussion will explore her career path and the challenges of working at the intersection of science and history. The session concludes with a live Q&A for students and attendees.
Date and Time TBD - Dr. Ed Green
Ancient DNA, Whole Genomes, and the Future of Human Identification
Dr. Richard E. (Ed) Green is a pioneer in ancient DNA research and large-scale genome sequencing. As a professor at the University of California, Santa Cruz, his work has helped transform our understanding of human evolution and genomic analysis.
In this episode of Forensic DNA Dialogues, Dr. Green discusses how advances in whole genome sequencing, bioinformatics, and ancient DNA analysis are reshaping the way scientists study human history and biological relationships.
The conversation will explore the intersection of genomics, computational biology, and forensic identification, as well as the scientific journey that led to these breakthroughs.
Date and Time TBD - CeCe Moore
Innovator and Pioneer in the use of Autosomal DNA
Each session explores the scientific breakthroughs, validation challenges, and leadership decisions that have driven the field forward—from early STR typing to modern SNP analysis, next-generation sequencing, forensic genetic genealogy, and emerging genomic technologies.
The discussions focus not only on the science, but also on the professional journeys of the guests: their education, research experiences, internships, pivotal moments in their careers, and the processes behind their most influential work.
The format combines a structured interview with audience engagement. Participants will hear firsthand accounts of how major technologies were developed, validated, and implemented in real-world forensic laboratories. Guests will also share insights into publishing, communicating complex science, leading research programs, and mentoring the next generation of forensic scientists.
We will conclude each session with a live Q&A in which the audience can ask questions directly to the guest speaker.
Detailed Learning objectives:
- Describe the historical development of major forensic DNA technologies and how scientific innovation has influenced modern human identification methods.
- Explain the research, validation, and implementation processes required to translate emerging DNA technologies into operational forensic laboratory workflows.
- Identify career pathways, mentorship strategies, and professional experiences that contribute to leadership and impact in forensic genetics.
