Sam's fascination with forensic science began during her college years. A two-year internship at a Forensic Chemistry lab allowed her to delve into research, focusing on extraction techniques to improve the resolution of illegal components found in ecstasy tablets. This early exposure solidified her desire to pursue a career in forensics. Sam holds a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from Erskine College in Due West, South Carolina and later earned a Graduate Certificate in Forensic DNA and Serology from the University of Florida.
Over 13 years of experience in forensic biology equips Sam Spencer to provide invaluable insights to law enforcement and legal professionals.
Before her current role, Sam served as a forensic scientist with a state law enforcement agency. During her career spanning over six years, she processed crime scenes, meticulously collecting and documenting evidence. Her expertise extends to performing serological and DNA analysis, ensuring crucial pieces of evidence are thoroughly examined.
Sam's dedication goes beyond the lab. She actively shares her knowledge by presenting important forensic topics to a diverse audience, including detectives, crime scene investigators, sexual assault nurse examiners, prosecutors, and defense attorneys. Her mission is to empower legal professionals with a deeper understanding of DNA – its significance, best practices for collection and preservation, and proper interpretation.
Sam's experience is vast, encompassing over 1400 cases for multiple law enforcement agencies. Her credibility is further solidified by her experience providing expert testimony in numerous jurisdictions, including outside the state of Tennessee.
Before embarking on her forensic science journey, Sam honed her skills for two years in the Molecular Diagnostic Lab at the Greenwood Genetic Center. This experience provided her with a solid foundation in techniques such as DNA and RNA extraction, quantification, amplification, and capillary electrophoresis. Sam's aptitude was recognized as she became the Lead SOLiD Technologist, playing a pivotal role in implementing new chemistry and instrumentation. She even went on to develop protocols, further enhancing the lab's capabilities.
Areas of Expertise
- Serology Testing
- DNA Analysis and Interpretation
- Mixture and Low-Level DNA Interpretation
- DNA Transfer, Prevalence, Persistence, and Recovery
- Autosomal and Y STR Testing
- Evidence Collection and Storage Techniques
- Crime Scene Documentation and Processing
CODIS Standards
The Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) is a tool for linking violent crimes and providing investigative leads. It enables federal, state, and local forensic laboratories to compare DNA profiles electronically, thereby linking crimes to each other and known offenders.
Read More
SWGDAM Standards
The Scientific Working Group on DNA Analysis Methods (SWGDAM) serves to enhance forensic biology services and provides recommendations on quality assurance standards for forensic DNA analysis.
Read More
ISFG Member
The International Society for Forensic Genetics (ISFG) aims to promote scientific knowledge in the field of genetic markers as applied to forensic science. This is mainly being achieved through regular meetings of either regional or international nature, their journal Forensic Science International: Genetics, and the work of expert DNA commissions.
Read More