Skip Palenik and Ethan Groves Lead MAFS Workshop to Explore “Forensic Microscopy of Soils”
On Monday, 25 August 2025, Microtrace scientists Skip Palenik and Ethan Groves presented a workshop at the Midwestern Association of Forensic Scientists‘ (MAFS) 54th Annual Fall Meeting in Columbus, OH. This year’s conference was a combined meeting amongst MAFS and the American Society of Trace Evidence Examiners (ASTEE).
In the workshop, entitled “Forensic Microscopy of Soils,” students were guided through a practical introduction to the identification and contextualization of soils by microscopy and microchemistry. Beginning with lecture-demonstrations and moving quickly to practical laboratory sessions, attendees learned techniques to support every aspect of a forensic soil investigation from collection and analysis to interpretation.
Abstract
Students will study the composition and origin of soils, methods for their analysis, and approaches to interpretations of forensic soil evidence, through a combination of lectures, demonstrations, and hands-on examinations. Historical and modern casework in which soil evidence played a significant role will be presented.
Students will be introduced to soil dissections, including evaluations of color, texture, microchemical testing, and stereo-microscopical observations. Students will also learn about methods of processing to separate soils into various fractions. Polarized light microscopy will be demonstrated as it applies to the mineralogical and biological fractions of soils. Additional instrumental methods and advanced techniques will also be introduced.
Analytical results and their interpretations will be discussed and presented within the context of forensic soil investigations, which are often summarized as comparison (i.e., does this soil originate from that location?) or provenance/sourcing (i.e., where did this soil originate?). Students will take away an understanding of parameters for a successful soil comparison and techniques for describing or determining the origin of an unknown soil.
Students are encouraged to collect soils from their local environment and submit them to the instructors for use in this workshop. Soil samples will be processed following the methods described within this workshop and used for demonstration purposes. Please contact the instructors for details regarding soil collection and submission. Note, soils need to be received by Aug 1st, and depending on the number of submissions, not all samples may be processed or utilized.
MAFS
The Midwestern Association of Forensic Scientists (MAFS) was founded in 1971 as a non-profit organization where scientists from the Midwest could gather and discuss unique cases or research to help further the field and solve problems within the disciplines. Over the years, MAFS has grown to include participants from all over the U.S. and even some from outside the U.S.; however, the original goal of the organization has not changed. Annual fall meetings and spring workshops are held to provide opportunities for scientists to advance their expertise and share their knowledge with others. A visiting scientist program is available to aid laboratories with specific training needs. University students are encouraged to join the organization and present relevant research that may impact the field. MAFS purpose is to encourage the exchange of ideas and information within forensic science as is exemplified through the mission statement “To further the field of forensic science by leading to inspire and inspiring to learn.”
How May We Help You?
Contact usto discuss your project in more detail.