Research Interests
seized drugstrace evidence analysis
Opportunities
Work Study Positions Available: No
Grant Funded Positions Available: No
Course-Credit Research Opportunities Available: No
Volunteer Research Positions Available: No
Biography
The focus of my research lab has been to provide analytical solutions to various forensic chemistry problems. We study sample preparation techniques and analysis of materials using chromatography, mass spectrometry, spectroscopy, and microscopy.
The specific analytical techniques we use are solid phase microextraction (SPME), gas chromatography-triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (GC-QQQ), standalone mass spectrometry, light microscopy, FTIR microscopy, and ion mobility spectrometry.
- Analysis of organic gunshot residue: Building on the analysis of smokeless powders, I am interested in the various factors that affect the collection, analysis, and interpretation of traces of smokeless powder residues found after the firing of a weapon. I have developed methods for smokeless powder additives using standalone mass spectrometry and GC-QQQ. We are interested in collaborating with other research groups that might be addressing research gaps in the analysis of organic gunshot residue.
- Analysis of novel psychoactive substances: We have addressed analysis of novel psychoactive substances (NPS) through various techniques. I have collaborated with other research groups for specific classes of compounds.
We have developed microcrystal tests for several NPS classes
https://digitalcommons.wcupa.edu/chem_lmtnpa/
https://www.ojp.gov/pdffiles1/nij/grants/250547.pdf
We are currently working on an analytical characterization of novel benzodiazepines
