Guiding Excellence in Forensic Science and Justice
Our distinguished Advisory Board unites veteran pathologists, legal scholars, and research scientists, ensuring every program meets rigorous scientific standards and serves the public good effectively.
Learn how our nonprofit institute blends advanced research, accredited education, and unbiased expert consultation to elevate forensic standards, guide legal teams, and safeguard communities— all while fostering global collaboration across science and medicine.
Advisory Board and Leadership
Dr. Matthias I. Okoye, M.D., J.D.
President and CEO of the Nebraska Institute of Forensic Sciences, Dr Matthias I. Okoye is a board-certified forensic pathologist and qualified solicitor. He oversees complex medico-legal death investigations across several counties, lectures in forensic pathology at Creighton University School of Medicine, consults for public agencies, and publishes extensively on injury causation, toxicology, and strategies that promote minority participation and leadership within forensic science careers.
Dr. Cordelia N. Okoye, R.N., MPH, Ph.D.
Dr Cordelia N. Okoye is an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Forensic Sciences at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and President of Lincoln Health Consultants. A registered nurse with MPH and PhD qualifications, she designs innovative public-health curricula, drives strategic workforce development for underserved communities, and champions inclusive, interdisciplinary training across all our programmes, elevating patient outcomes along the way.
Dr. Cyril H. Wecht, M.D., J.D.
Renowned forensic pathologist and former Allegheny County Coroner, Dr Cyril H. Wecht has authored more than 600 scientific papers and 45 books on medico-legal issues that influence courts worldwide. As a founding Board member, he shapes our research standards, advises programme development, and mentors the next generation of forensic scientists.
Dr. Henry C. Lee, Ph.D.
Dr Henry C. Lee, Chief Emeritus of the Connecticut State Police Forensic Laboratory, is celebrated worldwide for ground-breaking advances in crime-scene reconstruction. A founding Board member, he shapes rigorous hands-on training, mentors emerging investigators, and forges international partnerships that continually enhance evidence collection, interpretation, and justice delivery.
Dr. Michael M. Baden, M.D.
Former Chief Medical Examiner of New York City, Dr Michael M. Baden is a leading authority on complex death investigations. He offers independent reviews for public agencies and provides expert oversight to our pathology research groups, helping to advance evidence-based practice and nurture the next generation of forensic scientists.
Dr. Michael Welner, M.D.
Dr Michael Welner, Chairman of The Forensic Panel, pioneers cutting-edge research into forensic psychiatry, depravity analysis, and violence risk. His high-profile case experience and validated assessment tools inform our teaching, ensuring students and professionals appreciate the psychological dynamics that influence offending behaviour, investigative strategy, and courtroom evaluation.
Mr. James E. Starrs, LL.M.
The late Professor James E. Starrs was a trailblazer in forensic law and scientific evidence at George Washington University, shaping modern standards for courtroom science. His scholarship continues to inspire our ethical framework, rigorous curricula, and meticulous evidence-handling protocols across every programme we offer.
Dr. Victor W. Weedn, M.D., J.D.
Dr Victor W. Weedn pioneered DNA identification for the US Armed Forces and now serves as Professor of Forensic Sciences at George Washington University. His strategic insight guides our Institute’s exploration of cutting-edge genetic technologies, digital evidence, and multidisciplinary investigative standards.
Dr. Karl Jan Reinhard
Professor Karl J. Reinhard investigates ancient disease, diet, and parasite interactions to advance contemporary forensic science at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. His cross-disciplinary research connects anthropology, palaeopathology, and environmental forensics, enriching our curriculum with data-driven case studies and innovative laboratory techniques that inspire evidence-based thinking.
Dr. John Oladapo Obafunwa
Dr John O. Obafunwa, Professor of Forensic Pathology at Lagos State University, bridges clinical autopsy expertise with the demands of legal medicine. As Lagos State’s Chief Forensic Pathologist, he has investigated deaths across Africa, the Caribbean and Europe, bringing valuable comparative insight to our discussions on public health, justice and policy.
Specialized Training Pathways Available
From introductory lectures on evidence preservation to advanced modules in forensic pathology, our curriculum is designed for medical examiners, attorneys, law-enforcement personnel, and laboratory scientists alike. Courses integrate hands-on demonstrations, virtual microscopy, and real case studies, ensuring every participant gains applicable skills immediately. Seasoned faculty members—each an active practitioner—mentor small cohorts, encouraging discussion and critical thinking. Flexible scheduling, online resources, and the option to pay certification fees via PayPal or Zelle remove obstacles so you can focus entirely on learning.
Comprehensive Scientific Consultation Services Program
As an independent, nonprofit laboratory resource, the Institute provides objective analyses of physical evidence, autopsy findings, and injury mechanisms for attorneys, insurers, and public agencies. Our specialists apply validated methodologies, prepare clear reports, and deliver authoritative testimony that withstands cross-examination. Because every matter is unique, clients receive individualized work plans, projected timelines, and transparent pricing before any test begins. Digital portals allow secure file transfer, while PayPal and Zelle simplify payment so investigations proceed without administrative delay.
Annual Forensic Medicine Seminars
Each spring, we convene an interdisciplinary forum where global leaders discuss emerging trends in toxicology, digital forensics, DNA technology, and medico-legal policy. The three-day seminar features keynote lectures, interactive workshops, and live demonstrations held in state-of-the-art facilities at the University of Nebraska. Attendees may earn continuing education credits, network with peers, and participate in case review panels moderated by our faculty. Early registration discounts, plus convenient PayPal or Zelle payment options, encourage swift enrollment and guarantee your seat.
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Trusted Scientific Expertise Source
Seasoned practitioners oversee every complex case.
Integrity In Every Finding
Objective analyses delivered without external influence.
Precision Drives Reliable Results
Meticulous methods ensure consistently court-ready documentation.
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Address
6821 Southfork Circle
Lincoln Nebraska 68516,
USA