Executive Committee

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President

Alison SEARS (since 2025)

I am a Senior Forensic Biologist in the Case Management Unit, NSW FASS. Operationally, I am involved with the analysis and reporting of DNA testing for criminal and coronial matters including DVI, as well as providing expert evidence to the Courts of NSW. I am an experienced bloodstain pattern analyst, a certified trainer and assessor, and strongly involved with many facets of industry-related research, development, and teaching.

Vice-President

Dr Jennifer RAYMOND (since 2025)

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Immediate Past President

Professor James CURRAN (President 2020-2024)

I work at the University of Auckland in the Department of Statistics. My area of interest is broadly in statistical problems in forensic science. I have published widely on DNA and glass, especially in the areas of interpretation. A list of my recent journal publications can be found here.

Treasurer

Madalen CHIKHANI (since 2025)

Web Officer

Michael WHYTE (since 2025)

I am a civilian Fingerprint Expert and Crime Scene Officer (CSO) with over 19 years experience with the NSW Police Forensic Evidence & Technical Services Command. I possess specialist skills and and deliver specific training in: Fingerprint identification, Fingerprint detection and recovery, Advanced chemical targeting for fingerprint and biological evidence, Evidence photography, and DNA and physical evidence recovery at serious crime scenes.

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Secretary – Delegate

Dr Jade De La Paz (since 2022)

I am a forensic anthropologist with 13 years experience. I have a PhD in Anatomy (Biological Anthropology and Clinical Anatomy) from the University of Otago (2022) and an MS in Forensic Anthropology from Boston University School of Medicine (2013). I am currently working as a Teaching Fellow in the Department of Anatomy at the University of Otago. My research focuses on anatomical approaches to estimating sex from the cranium and clavicle, high-velocity projectile skeletal trauma, taphonomy, human remains recovery and analysis in forensic contexts, osteological reference collections, and applications of research to forensic anthropology casework.