FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2003, PETERBOROUGH

DNA FORENSICS CAMP: HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS TO INVESTIGATE CRIME THIS SUMMER

A DNA Forensics Summer Camp at Trent University is one of 27 new Canadian science initiatives to be funded by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC).

"Grassroot activities that harness the creativity and enthusiasm of young Canadians are key to developing the scientific talent we need to become one of the top five countries in the world in research and development," said Allan Rock, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC), which makes the awards through its annual Promoscience competition.

Trent’s DNA Forensics Camp, which will take place this summer, will provide high school students with an opportunity to learn about DNA technology, forensic science and related social issues.

Students will be presented with mock crime scenes or case modules. While investigating these scenarios, students will have access to equipment for DNA analysis and will consult with law enforcement professionals. The cases and crime scenes will be based on murders, poaching, paternity questions, genetically modified food and other DNA-based possibilities. Students will be encouraged to research the basics of DNA structure and forensic science while having fun solving a simulated case. The camp will conclude with mock trials in which students will present their evidence.

One-week DNA Forensic Camp sessions will be held from July 14 to August 29 this summer at Trent University in Peterborough. Further details and registration information can be found at http://www.nrdpfc.ca/forensics_camp. To register by telephone, please contact Trent University Conference Services at (705) 745-1589.

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For more information contact:
Dr. Bradley White, Trent University, (705) 748-1011, ext. 5346