Lakehead University Paleo-DNA Expert Speaking at Meeting of Forensic Scientists

(Thunder Bay - Wednesday, February 16, 2005) Dr. Carney Matheson, Director of the world renowned Lakehead University Paleo DNA Laboratory, has been invited to speak at the 57th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Forensic Science (AAFS) next week.

From February 21 to 26, members of the AAFS will be gathering in New Orleans, Louisiana, to discuss the expanding field of forensic science. The AAFS has over 5,600 members from across North America, and representing over 50 countries worldwide.

Dr. Matheson will be discussing quality assurance and control of processes and procedures of DNA analysis as well as techniques of paleo DNA that can be applied to quality control today. He will be bringing three staff members and six Masters students to the conference.

"This is a wonderful opportunity for all of us to learn something and develop our areas of expertise," Dr. Matheson says. "As well, this is another chance for the Paleo DNA Laboratory to be highlighted. Our lab is world renowned, and requests for our attendance at events such as the AAFS meeting is on the rise. This is indicative that the Paleo DNA Laboratory is recognized globally for its exceptional work."

Members of the Media: Dr. Matheson is available for interviews by calling 343-8862. He will be leaving for the conference at the end of this week.

The Lakehead University Paleo-DNA Laboratory recently became the first university laboratory in Canada to become accredited by the Standards Council of Canada (SCC) for Forensic DNA testing. A state-of-the-art facility, the Paleo-DNA Laboratory, has been a pioneer in the application of modern molecular genetic techniques and technologies as well as the study of archaeological, degraded, and Paleo-DNA.
Lakehead University is located in Thunder Bay, Ontario, on the shores of Lake Superior. It is a comprehensive university with a worldwide reputation for innovative programs and research. With over 7,400 students and 1,600 faculty and staff, Lakehead University is home to the west campus of the Northern Ontario School of Medicine, and is developing a satellite campus in Orillia, Ontario, planned to open in September 2006. For more information on Lakehead University, visit www.lakeheadu.ca.

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Contact: Marla Tomlinson, Communications Officer, Lakehead University, 343-8177 or 472-9113