Pitt's Center for National Preparedness Sponsors Seminar, "Forensics and Terrorism," Nov. 9

PITTSBURGH-The processing of a terrorist event for evidence by forensic scientists can be a lengthy, intense process, but timely apprehension of the offenders takes on prime importance in the prevention of further incidents. The Center for National Preparedness (CNP) at the University of Pittsburgh will sponsor a seminar, "Forensics and Terrorism," presented by Keith Morris, forensic project manager at West Virginia University's (WVU) Forensic Science Initiative, from 3 to 4 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 9, on the Fifth Floor of Alumni Hall, 4227 Fifth Ave., Oakland. A reception will follow Morris' presentation. Admission is free, but preregistration is recommended at www.cnp.pitt.edu/seminar/ or by calling 412-624-2677.

The seminar, part of the CNP's 2006-07 series on research in homeland security, will focus on the integration of forensic science into post-terrorism event activities. Topics will include crime scene coordination, evidence control, collection and analysis, and forensic intelligence.

Prior to his position at WVU, Morris was director of the South African Police Service Forensic Science Laboratory, where he led a forensics staff of more than 450 scientists and analysts. His responsibilities ranged from directing the implementation of a fully automated DNA analysis system to integrating the Explosives Control and Bomb Disposal Unit into the Forensic Science Laboratory.

Morris received the B.S. degree in chemistry and mathematics and a Ph.D. degree in chemistry from the University of Port Elizabeth, South Africa. He also holds a master's degree in business leadership from the University of South Africa.

The CNP is a broad, multidisciplinary, collaborative enterprise that engages the University's scientists, engineers, policy experts, and clinical faculty. Members of the center possess expertise in biomedical research, public health, medicine, national security policy, engineering, and information technology. The center communicates the innovative research of the University's faculty to the broader public through the educational and training programs, including this seminar series. For more information about CNP, visit www.cnp.pitt.edu.

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11/2/06/tmw