Investigate it: Forensics at BCIT
Our Forensics course schedule is available on our website.
Early course registration is strongly recommended to avoid possible disappointment.
Please remember to double check the course registration page online as dates, times, and/or location are subject to change.
Contact BCIT_Forensics@bcit.ca for more information on approval to register.
For those with an interest in forensics, we invite you to the 3rd Annual Forensic Symposium to celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the Centre for Forensic Research.
The Annual Forensic Symposium is an event designed for students, academics, and professionals to share their forensically-based research and serve as a hub for net-working between academia and professional practitioners.
The event will take place on December 5th, and be held in Blusson Hall 9660 at Simon Fraser University, Burnaby Campus. This will be an all-day event. Lunch will be provided, as well as coffee and light snacks.
Registration will begin as soon as there is a preliminary program, but for now make sure to save the date in your calendars.
If you have any questions about the event please contact Julia Meyers(jlmeyers@sfu.ca), Tom Royle (troyle@sfu.ca), or Vienna Chichi Lam (vienna_lam@sfu.ca).
Story by Cynthia Van Ginkel
The headlines are scary: social media cyber security privacy breaches, fraudsters who steal from the elderly, international money laundering schemes. As technology continues to infiltrate all areas of our lives – not to mention our financial transactions – opportunities for fraud and financial crime are evolving and growing.
For BCIT grad Steve Wilson, pictured above, this network of risk provides a fascinating and rewarding investigative career.
A BCIT Forensics grad, Steve has returned to BCIT as a leader, helping to launch BCIT’s new Graduate Certificate in Fraud and Financial Crime. He’s brought his international expertise on trends in cybercrime, fraud awareness, and prevention to help develop a program that can be completed part-time in less than a year.
Steve entered the field twelve years ago, and has had a range of roles in law enforcement, the financial services industry, and the private sector. His formal training includes a Bachelor of Technology in Forensic Investigation: Computer Crime Option. He’s also a Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), Certified Financial Crime Investigator (CFCI), and holds a number of other economic crime and computer crime qualifications. Currently he’s further rounding out his business expertise, and is soon to finish an MBA.
“It’s a fact that fraud and economic crime is changing and we need to change and keep up with the current trends,” explains Steve. “Basic investigation skills are no longer enough: we need to keep developing, innovating, and improving as well.” From the latest in data analytics to new techniques in digital forensics, Steve says those in the field thrive on constantly watching for new developments.
The ideal skill set for careers in his area include strong teamwork, networking skills, critical thinking, and a good grounding in how technology can aid in investigations. He feels BCIT Forensics prepared him for just this.
“BCIT provided me not only with the skills required for my current leadership role, but also with the ability to become a proactive force in identifying and preventing fraud and economic crime through the use of technology, data, and applying precise business concepts and skills to mitigate risk.”
In his current role managing investigative and forensic services, Steve deals directly with clients who have been impacted by fraud and financial crime. He works with them to address incidents, as well as helping them develop controls and processes to mitigate and prevent future problems.
As President of the Vancouver Chapter of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE), he’s also helping to further connections in the field though networking, shared resources, and events. He urges those considering the field to “never stop learning, inquiring and networking with other professionals.” He’s certainly leading by example there.
For more information on BCIT Forensic programs, visit bcit.ca/forensics or check out these related stories:
BCIT’s Forensic Science & Technology program invites applications for a regular, full-time Technician III position. The successful candidate will be responsible for assisting in the activities of the accredited forensic DNA laboratory, assisting in the departmental research activities, preparation of forensic laboratory sessions and mock crime scene scenarios running within the academic programs, assisting the program coordinators in operational matters of the department, quality assurance, repair and maintenance of laboratory equipment, and other related duties.
WHAT THIS POSITION HAS TO OFFER:
QUALIFICATIONS:
Closing Date: 09-29-2017
Courts Administration Service
Calgary (Alberta), Edmonton (Alberta), Vancouver (British Columbia), Winnipeg (Manitoba), Toronto (Ontario), Montréal Island (Québec)
AS-03
$61,558 to $66,324
For further information on the organization, please visit Courts Administration Service
Closing date: 13 September 2017 – 23:59, Pacific Time
Who can apply: Persons residing in Canada and Canadian citizens residing abroad.
Duties
You will be required to provide administrative and office management services in support of members of the judiciary of the Federal Court of Appeal, the Federal Court, the Court Martial Appeal Court or the Tax Court of Canada. Tasks include (but are not limited to):
• Responding or anticipating the needs of the judge (or prothonotary) in the preparation and review of decisions, directions, reasons, judgments and orders.
For more information, see the full job posting here: https://emploisfp-psjobs.cfp-psc.gc.ca/psrs-srfp/applicant/page1800?poster=1075841
Reference Number: 15-968-06-108
Closing Date: 2017-09-13
Job Summary
The Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) is seeking applications for a career in surveillance. The Physical Surveillant Analyst position provides direct operational and technical support to field surveillance teams. Candidates must possess a high level of initiative, motivation and discretion, with the ability to work a flexible schedule. Candidates should enjoy multi-tasking, report writing and be able to adapt quickly to a variety of situations.
Mandatory Criteria
For more information, see the full job posting here: https://csiscareers.ca/en/jobs/physical-surveillant-analyst
Instructor: Gail Anderson
Format: 1 Day hands-on field day in Maple Ridge, BC
Date: July 25th
Workshop Times: 09:30 – 17:30
Cost: $128.00 (CRN 65108)
Description:
This 1 day hands-on workshop will introduce investigators to the field of forensic entomology and how this discipline may assist you in your investigations. World renowned forensic entomologist Gail Anderson will lead this session with a half day lecture on the application of forensic entomology for investigative purposes followed by a half day hands-on field exercise studying insects at a mock scene using carrion. The lecture component will provide investigators with some practical knowledge on how insects may assist different aspects of an investigation; including the estimation of the elapsed time since death, whether a body has been disturbed or moved after death, or whether drugs where used prior to death. The hands-on practical session will give the participants experience with a ‘real’ situation in which insects have naturally colonized carcasses and allow them to perform full insect collections as they would at a real crime scene.
The workshop will provide the investigator with an overall understanding of entomology and its applications to criminal or sudden death investigations, collecting insect evidence at a crime scene in a manner defensible in court, the value of insect evidence, and the results which can be expected from an entomologist.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of this workshop, the student will be able to:
Who should take this workshop: Any individual conducting investigations into events or circumstances that have led to a sudden death or homicide involving an individual or animal.
For more information, see the registration page here or contact Julia at jdreyer@bcit.ca.
Royal Canadian Mounted Police – LMD IFIS – E Division
Surrey (British Columbia)
$59,227 to $67,340
Closing date: 17 July 2017 – 23:59, Pacific Time
Who can apply: Persons residing in Canada and Canadian citizens residing abroad.
Important messages
PLEASE NOTE, ONLY ON-LINE APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED.
Positions to be filled: 1
In order to be considered, your application must clearly explain how you meet the following (essential qualifications)
Education:
•Successful completion of a diploma program in a related field (i.e. video production, broadcast television, film, photography) supplemented by technical courses specific to the field of forensic video analysis OR
•Successful completion of the LEVA Forensic Video Analysis Certification Program with active certification as a Certified Forensic Video Analyst (CFVA)
Experience:
1.Experience in processing forensic video evidence at an analytical or technical level
2.Experience preparing general correspondence and reports
3.Experience in operating, researching and recommending multimedia hardware or software
4.Experience providing subject matter expertise and instruction
Knowledge:
1.Knowledge of procedures and practices for operational records management
2.Knowledge of organizational policies and procedures in relation to exhibit handling, specifically digital evidence.
3.Knowledge of forensic terminology
The following will be applied / assessed at a later date (essential for the job)
English essential
Information on language requirements
Abilities & Skills:
1.Ability to prioritize and multi-task a workload
2.Ability to communicate effectively orally
3.Ability to communicate effectively in writing
Personal Suitability:
1.Effective interpersonal relationships
2.Thoroughness
3.Initiative
4.Judgement
5.Attention to detail
The following may be applied / assessed at a later date (may be needed for the job)
Experience:
1.Experience providing subject matter expertise and instruction in forensic video analysis and video evidence
2.Experience in developing new processes in forensic video analysis and the use of video evidence
Willingness and ability to work overtime or shift work
Conditions of employment
Top Secret security clearance
Willingness and ability to travel.
Willingness to testify in a court of law.
Willingness and ability to view imagery of a sensitive, graphic and disturbing nature while carrying out duties, sometimes for prolonged periods of time.
Contact information
Carlea Wolf – Carlea.Wolf@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
See the full job posting here: https://emploisfp-psjobs.cfp-psc.gc.ca/psrs-srfp/applicant/page1800?poster=1056135
Description:
This 1 day hands-on workshop will introduce investigators to the field of forensic entomology and how this discipline may assist you in your investigations. World renowned forensic entomologist Gail Anderson will lead this session with a half day lecture on the application of forensic entomology for investigative purposes followed by a half day hands-on field exercise studying insects at a mock scene using carrion. The lecture component will provide investigators with some practical knowledge on how insects may assist different aspects of an investigation; including the estimation of the elapsed time since death, whether a body has been disturbed or moved after death, or whether drugs where used prior to death. The hands-on practical session will give the participants experience with a ‘real’ situation in which insects have naturally colonized carcasses and allow them to perform full insect collections as they would at a real crime scene.
The workshop will provide the investigator with an overall understanding of entomology and its applications to criminal or sudden death investigations, collecting insect evidence at a crime scene in a manner defensible in court, the value of insect evidence, and the results which can be expected from an entomologist.
Instructor: Gail Anderson
Format: 1 Day hands-on field day in Maple Ridge, BC
Date: July 25th
Workshop Times: 09:30 – 17:30
Cost: $128.00
Learning Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of this workshop, the student will be able to:
Who should take this workshop: Any individual conducting investigations into events or circumstances that have led to a sudden death or homicide involving an individual or animal.
For more information, please email Julia Dreyer at jdreyer@bcit.ca
$55,840 to $67,936
For further information on the organization, please visit Royal Canadian Mounted Police
Closing date: 16 June 2017 – 23:59, Pacific Time
Who can apply: Persons residing in Canada and Canadian citizens residing abroad.
$55,840 to $67,936
For further information on the organization, please visit Royal Canadian Mounted Police
Closing date: 16 June 2017 – 23:59, Pacific Time
Who can apply: Persons residing in Canada and Canadian citizens residing abroad.
$55,840 to $67,936
For further information on the organization, please visit Royal Canadian Mounted Police
Closing date: 16 June 2017 – 23:59, Pacific Time
Who can apply: Persons residing in Canada and Canadian citizens residing abroad.
Duties
Job Description:
The position is responsible for:
1. conducting the initial examination of crime scene exhibits, samples and materials; for the recovery of trace evidence using specialized and standardized analysis techniques;
2. inputting data for tracking purposes; performing quality assurance tasks in accordance with established guidelines such as in the maintenance, upgrading and calibration of scientific equipment used to perform forensic analysis;
3. assisting in the design, research and development or evaluation of analytical methods or systems;
4. documenting findings in case notes for forensic specialists to prepare analytical reports; provision of expert advice on the selection and handling of crime scene evidence;
5. testifying in court;
6. assisting in the education of both internal and external clients including RCMP members and members of the legal, medical, forensic and law enforcement communities.
Information you must provide
Your résumé.
You must meet all essential qualifications in order to be appointed to the position. Other qualifications may be a deciding factor in choosing the person to be appointed. Some essential and other qualifications will be assessed through your application. It is your responsibility to provide appropriate examples that illustrate how you meet each qualification. Failing to do so could result in your application being rejected.
In order to be considered, your application must clearly explain how you meet the following (essential qualifications)
Education/Training:
A minimum of a 2 year college diploma in biological sciences from a certified Canadian institute.
* Transcript will be assessed to clarify the courses taken during the degree/diploma.
1. Successful completion of courses such as biochemistry, biology, cell biology, genetics, microbiology, molecular biology, or other subjects which provide a basic understanding of the foundation of forensic DNA analysis.
* Transcript will be assessed to clarify the courses taken during the degree/diploma.
2. Candidates will be required successfully complete the understudy training program for Evidence Recovery
Knowledge:
1. Working knowledge of general analytical techniques and/or laboratory techniques including processing of DNA (preference given to human DNA).
Special Requirements/Abilities:
1. Demonstrated effective communication skills, both oral and written.
2. Demonstrated effective interpersonal skills.
3. Demonstrated effective trouble shooting and problem solving skills.
4. Demonstrated effective team work.
For more information, see the full job postings at the links below:
https://emploisfp-psjobs.cfp-psc.gc.ca/psrs-srfp/applicant/page1800?poster=1049028&toggleLanguage=en
https://emploisfp-psjobs.cfp-psc.gc.ca/psrs-srfp/applicant/page1800?poster=1049261&toggleLanguage=en
https://emploisfp-psjobs.cfp-psc.gc.ca/psrs-srfp/applicant/page1800?poster=1049265&toggleLanguage=en
BCIT Forensics is offering a workshop in internet and social media investigative techniques.
Date: June 19 – 21, 2017 (Monday – Wednesday)
Time: 0900 to 1630
Fee: $708.90 (CRN 64272)
Location: BCIT Downtown Vancouver Campus (555 Seymour St.)
Registration: Contact Julia Dreyer at jdreyer@bcit.ca
This 3 day, hands-on workshop will provide attendees with the latest techniques used to effectively gather online information for investigative purposes relating to persons, companies, and other assets. Attendees will be introduced to methods for gathering online intelligence through social media platforms, search engines, and dark web searches. In addition, attendees will learn how to assess potential counter-intelligence concerns. Particular emphasis will be placed on heightened awareness and the “paper trail” investigators leave behind when using internet investigation tools. Approaches to maintain privacy and security when carrying our online investigations will also be explored and attendees will be introduced to a variety of online search methodologies.
Instructed by Martin Hurst
NOTE: There is an option to sign up for the first day only of this workshop for a reduced price of $286 – contact jdreyer@bcit.ca for more information.
More information and registration on our website.