DNA Forensics Camp at Trent University:
High School Students Investigate Crime Scenes This Summer
This summer at Trent University, high school students are at the centre of crime scene investigation, CSI: Peterborough, exploring DNA technology and forensic science.
Learning from the professionals themselves, and using Trent's state-of-the-science DNA laboratories, students will look at how DNA technology is used to solve crimes and hear about other techniques used in law enforcement. Crime scene investigation will culminate in a mock trial, where students will present the evidence they have collected throughout the week. The camp attracts students from grade 9 to 12 who have a keen interest in science.
"The DNA Forensic Camp at Trent University creates an engaging environment for students," says Dr. Christopher Kyle, camp director. "It provides an array of learning opportunities and access to professionals in the field and their resources. It's also a lot of fun."
In solving the weeklong cases, students access resources such as DNA analyses and work with experts in the field from the Ministry of Natural Resources, Trent University and Fleming College.
The camp is the brainchild of Trent's renowned DNA researcher Dr. Bradley White, Canada Research Chair in Conservation Genetics. This is the camp's second summer, having received a three-year grant from the National Science and Engineering Research Council (NSERC). A true partnership, the camp also receives support from numerous local agencies as well as a range of companies.
The camp runs on a weekly basis through to the end of August.
