Intern
Chhivhun Chan is a graduate student at George Mason University pursuing a Master of Science in Forensic Science with a concentration in Forensic Chemistry, where she also earned her Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science. She has developed a strong interest in forensic chemistry, particularly controlled substance analysis, analytical method development, and instrumental analysis. Through her coursework, research, and laboratory experience, she has built a solid foundation in analytical chemistry and enjoys applying scientific principles to support forensic investigations and the criminal justice system.
This summer, Chhivhun served as a Forensic Chemistry Intern at the Center for Forensic Science Research and Education (CFSRE), where she gained hands-on experience working in an accredited forensic laboratory performing qualitative and quantitative controlled substance analyses. She expanded her experience with analytical techniques including GC-MS, FTIR, liquid-liquid extraction (LLE), and solid-phase extraction (SPE), while strengthening her skills in scientific problem-solving and forensic laboratory practices.
One of her favorite aspects of the internship was working through a mock controlled substance case from initial evidence intake to final reporting, allowing her to experience the complete analytical workflow of forensic drug analysis.
Her current master's research focuses on developing and validating an analytical method for detecting alprazolam in juvenile bone marrow to improve postmortem drug analysis. Passionate about using analytical chemistry to uncover objective scientific evidence, Chhivhun hopes to pursue a career as a forensic drug chemist, contributing to both forensic casework and research that advances the field of forensic science.
