Master Class Forensic Science

Event Date : 20th April 2025

Event brief description – 

A Master Class on "DNA: Past, Present and Future" was organized by the Department of Forensic Science at Galgotias University on 20th April 2025, featuring Prof. (Dr.) Robert Green OBE from the University of Kent, UK. Held at AI Block 011, the event saw enthusiastic participation from students and faculty. The day began with a warm welcome by Dean Prof. (Dr.) Abhimanyu Kumar Jha and the forensic science faculty. Prof. (Dr.) Vinny Sharma introduced the distinguished speaker, highlighting his global contributions to forensic science.

During the first session, Prof. Green traced the development of DNA technologies, current advancements like STR analysis and DNA databases, and emerging trends such as rapid DNA testing and AI-driven analysis, while emphasizing ethical responsibilities. After lunch, he conducted a second session, "Cold Cases – A Journey of Past and Present," sharing fascinating case studies demonstrating the role of forensic science in solving unsolved crimes.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof. (Dr.) Vinny Sharma, followed by a group photograph and refreshments. Later, a special faculty meeting was held with Prof. Green, discussing the evolution of forensic science education and the integration of new pedagogical strategies into the academic curriculum.

Event Detailed Description- 

On 20th April 2025, the Department of Forensic Science at Galgotias University organized a prestigious Master Class featuring Prof. (Dr.) Robert Green OBE from the University of Kent, UK. The event, held at AI Block 011, focused on the topic "DNA: Past, Present and Future," attracting enthusiastic participation from students, faculty, and dignitaries. The day began with a warm welcome by the Dean, Prof. (Dr.) Abhimanyu Kumar Jha, along with the forensic science faculties, creating a cordial and enthusiastic atmosphere. 

The event commenced with an introduction of the esteemed guest by Prof. (Dr.) Vinny Sharma, who highlighted Prof. Green’s outstanding contributions to forensic science and his global impact in the field. The first master class session began with an insightful lecture titled "DNA: Past, Present and Future." He began by tracing the historical development of DNA technologies, emphasizing the pioneering discovery of DNA fingerprinting by Sir Alec Jeffreys in the 1980s. Dr. Green reflected on the initial hurdles faced in forensic DNA applications and recounted landmark cases where DNA evidence played a crucial role in justice delivery. Transitioning to the present, Prof. Green elaborated on modern advancements such as STR analysis, touch DNA techniques, and mitochondrial DNA profiling. He highlighted the transformative impact of national and international DNA databases on criminal investigations, greatly enhancing the speed and accuracy of solving crimes. His detailed discussion on the integration of stringent laboratory protocols and the ethical considerations surrounding DNA evidence captivated the audience.

Looking ahead to the future, Prof. Green discussed emerging trends including rapid DNA analysis, forensic genetic genealogy, and predictive DNA phenotyping, which could reconstruct an individual's physical features based solely on their DNA. He also shared insights into the potential of artificial intelligence to automate and refine forensic DNA interpretation. Throughout his session, he emphasized the ethical implications of these technological advancements, stressing the need to uphold privacy and human rights.

The session was highly interactive, with students and faculty members posing thought-provoking questions that led to stimulating discussions. After the lunch break, Prof. Green conducted the second master class session titled "Cold Cases – A Journey of Past and Present," where he shared captivating real-world case studies, illustrating the pivotal role of forensic science in solving unsolved crimes.

The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Prof. (Dr.) Vinny Sharma, appreciating Prof. Green’s invaluable contributions and the inspiration he imparted to the academic community. A group photograph and evening tea and snacks followed, marking the end of an enlightening and memorable day. A special faculty meeting was organized with Prof. Green. During this session, detailed discussions were held regarding the evolution of forensic science education and the integration of new pedagogical strategies into academic curriculum.

Department Name – Forensic Science

Event Outcome: The Master Class by Prof. (Dr.) Robert Green OBE significantly enriched the knowledge of students and faculty members on the evolution, current practices, and future directions of DNA technology in forensic science. The sessions encouraged critical thinking, interaction, and academic curiosity. The faculty meeting led to meaningful discussions on updating forensic science pedagogy, aiming to align teaching methods with global advancements.

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