NIST Forensic Science Program Long-Term Vision and Strategic Priorities Roundtable Discussion

On September 6-7, 2023, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) will be convening a roundtable discussion with a diverse group of forensic science thought leaders representing various local, state, federal, and private forensic laboratories, academia, and the legal system. The purpose of this endeavor will be to identify and assess the major challenges with respect to forensic science research and standardization in the United States and how the forensic science community can better address these challenges to strengthen domestic forensic science practice. NIST plans to use the information and insights gained from this roundtable discussion to inform its strategic priorities for its forensic science research, foundations, and standards programs.

To accomplish these goals, the program will include presentations, discussions, and focused break-out sessions targeting the following topics:

• The development and implementation of documentary standards into forensic science practice
• Strengthening public trust and confidence in forensic science practice
• Responsible use of computational algorithms in forensic science practice
• Advancing critically needed research, development, testing and evaluation relating to forensic science practice
• Identifying and overcoming non-technical challenges affecting the quality and reliability of forensic science practice