Extensive array of laboratory bench techniques | E.g., Qualitative/quantitative analysis, assays, calibrations, titrations, cryopreservation, preparing reagents/formulae, preparatory techniques, instrumentation, sample collection, etc. The following is an overview compilation:

Neuroscientific, etc. | Throughout my doctoral research, for example, I used sophisticated immunocytochemical, histological and laser confocal microscopy instrumental techniques to reveal the chemical properties of populations of neurons. Conducting my own experiments, I used various combinations of antibody cocktails coupled with fluorophores to identify and characterize neurons in the brain and spinal cord of laboratory rats.

Tissues were examined using laser confocal microscopy with oil immersion, fluorescing in three or four color channels. Montaging multiple stacked images, I reconstructed neurons in three dimensions, analyzing results and collecting data using advanced software programs.

Microscopy, histology and imaging | Microscopy is special expertise of mine. I used light microscopy to reveal injection sites stained with chromophores in the brains of laboratory rats, scaling images to reconstruct the brain. I am very proficient in using dissecting microscopes. I am very experienced with digital microphotography to capture images for analysis and presentation (refer to my publications, CV).

Forensically, I have used low-power digital microscopy and loupes to examine trace bloodstains on various surfaces. Related, my current research entails interactive mapping, using my imaging techniques to create, label and montage scaled images.

Forensically, I am familiarized with neuroimaging used to assess the psychopathology underlying violent criminal behavior (refer to my publication, CV).

Surgical techniques, animal modelling, dissections and perfusions | I have surgical experience applied to laboratory rats in experimental settings. For example, my doctoral research involved performing recovery stereotaxic brain surgery, titrating toxin to label neuronal systems from the brain to the spinal cord. Such procedures entail using anesthetics, both gaseous and dissociative agents administered via intraperitoneal injection.

I have experience perfusing animals, including preparing fixatives administered via gravity drip feed. I have performed complex dissections with anatomical precision on many animals, including sectioning tissues for histology (cryostat, microtome and vibratome). Also, I am experienced in cryopreservation of biological tissues.

Molecular biology and genetics | I have basic knowledge of polymerase chain reactions (PCR) conducted in a molecular ecology laboratory. I have used fluorimetry to optimize sampling detection, preparing gel trays for electrophoresis. I extracted DNA from whole blood samples (avian), using a thermocycler to amplify and duplicate specific DNA segments. Related, I have analyzed electropherograms and recorded data with a geneticist.

Forensically, I am well familiarized with modern DNA analysis techniques used for identification. E.g., short tandem repeats (STR) and phenotyping.

Bloodstain pattern analysis | Creating various patterns using whole blood, e.g., impact spatter, transfer, cast-off, passive dripping, aerosols, etc. Forensically, my biomedical background is invaluable to understanding hemodynamic processes associated with bloodshed events. Chemical enhancement and detection of bloodstains.

Agronomy, photochemistry, botany and soil sciences | E.g., Sampling techniques, using pH electrodes, electrical potentials, field work in rural settings, chain of custody, etc. Instrumental methods, spectrometry.

Psychophysics and visual cognition

Experimental methodology and research design

CONTACT ME:

Dr Amy Du Beau
Anchorage, Alaska
ph. 907-644-2929
c. 907-312-8687
dubeau@matanuskaforensicscience.com