Preface Chemistry is not one of the formal disciplines known as forensic sciences. However, many
forensics scientists use chemistry as part of their daily routine. For example, a combination of gas
chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC-MS), two instrumental techniques that will be
introduced in this course, was used recently by toxicologists1,2 to conduct forensic analyses. Our
intent is to introduce you to five instruments that have wide applicability in the forensics field, as
well as in other disciplines. The focus of this course will be on fundamental or basic laboratory
analyses that make use of our available instruments. You will be introduced to rudimentary forensics
analyses that make use of these instruments with the objective of preparing you for more advanced
training or to be an end point if your interests lie elsewhere

Laboratory Schedule
Lab
Number Week # Activity
1 1 Introduction to Gas Chromatography
2 2 Explorations in Gas Chromatography
3 3 Forensic Analysis by Gas Chromatography
4 4 Introduction to Infrared Spectroscopy