Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• Outline the types of cases encountered by a Forensic Toxicologist and the samples that may be encountered during a case submission, including the benefits and shortfalls of each type of sample.
• Explain, in detail, the analytical process for extracting, screening, confirming and determining a level for a particular drug or drug group. Be able to illustrate how the process was contamination free, samples were not mixed up and that the analysis was accurate.
• Compare the scientific instruments used in Forensic Toxicology including their scientific principles and components, as well as how they are used to confirm that a drug is present.
• Differentiate the pros and cons of the different analytical techniques utilized during analysis, and what techniques are better for certain drugs and drugs groups and why.
• Evaluate in detail the chemical properties, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics of commonly encountered drugs or drug groups including alcohol, CNS depressants, CNS stimulants, opioids, cannabis and hallucinogens.
• Describe the specific issues and concerns encountered in Forensic Toxicology including drug stability and storage, post mortem redistribution, post mortem production of alcohol, time between sample collection and sample analysis, use of particular vials/additives for analysis.
• Contrast which components of driving are and are not affected by drugs as well as any risk factors associated with a drug or drug groups after reviewing the scientific literature.
• Outline the elements of giving expert testimony and the type of evidence expected for qualifications, direct or cross examination as well as how to prepare an expert CV.

Effective as of Spring/Summer 2019