Dr. Alicia Haines received her PhD in Forensic Biology from Flinders University in 2017, focusing on enhancing the detection of latent DNA using intercalating dyes for crime scene item collection. Dr. Haines has extensive industry experience, having worked in forensic biology laboratories in New Zealand and Australia, where she processed crime scene items and contributed to the implementation of mRNA body fluid identification techniques. In late 2021, Alicia joined Western Sydney University (WSU) as a Lecturer in Forensic Biology and established essential infrastructure for forensic biology research at WSU. She developed creative content and assessments, leveraging her industry background, for the Forensic Science Major at WSU. Alicia is dedicated to advancing forensic science through innovative research and is committed to teaching and mentoring the next generation of scientists. Alicia joined UTS within the Faculty of Science in 2024 as Academic Director of First Year and is excited to contribute to UTS Science goals to improve the student experience, and sense of belonging for first year students.