FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
National Forensic Science Week 2026 to Honor Forensic Science Professionals Advancing Justice and Public Safety
Nationwide observance scheduled for September 20–26
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Forensic science organizations, government agencies, forensic science laboratories and educational institutions across the United States will observe National Forensic Science Week from September 20–26, 2026.
Celebrating its 14th anniversary, National Forensic Science Week recognizes the scientists, technicians, medical examiners, coroners, crime scene investigators and other professionals whose work supports criminal investigations, judicial proceedings and public safety.
The annual observance also provides an opportunity to increase public understanding of forensic science, explain how scientific evidence is collected and analyzed, and introduce students to careers in forensic laboratories, death investigation, toxicology, identification, digital evidence and related disciplines.
Agencies and institutions are encouraged to participate by organizing laboratory tours, scientific demonstrations, school presentations, career programs, public lectures, employee-recognition events, and community outreach activities. All programs should be conducted with appropriate safeguards for privacy, security and active investigations.
National Forensic Science Week is a partnership of the Consortium of Forensic Science Organizations (https://thecfso.org/), including the American Academy of Forensic Sciences, American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors, International Association for Identification, International Association of Coroners and Medical Examiners, National Association of Medical Examiners, Society of Forensic Toxicologists and American Board of Forensic Toxicology, and other collaborating organization members the Major Cities Chiefs, International Association of Chiefs of Police, Association of State Criminal Investigating Agencies, Major County Sheriffs of America, Florida International University Global Forensic and Justice Center, and the Forensic Technology Center of Excellence. Many of the national events of the week and national awards are coordinated by a multidisciplinary group facilitated by the CFSO.
The 2026 observance will also recognize excellence in forensic science education through the John Cornyn III, National Forensic Science Educator of the Year Awards, honoring one high school teacher and one higher-education teacher who have inspired students and advanced forensic science education.
National Forensic Science Week offers forensic organizations an opportunity to recognize their personnel, strengthen relationships with their communities and demonstrate how objective scientific work contributes to the fair and effective administration of justice.
Participation materials, educational resources and information about scheduled events are available through the National Forensic Science Week page on the CFSO website (https://thecfso.org/national-forensic-science-week/).
About the Consortium of Forensic Science Organizations
The Consortium of Forensic Science Organizations (CFSO) represents national professional associations serving forensic scientists, laboratory leaders, medical examiners, coroners and other forensic practitioners. CFSO works to advance forensic science, inform public policy and communicate the needs of the forensic science community.
For further information, contact:
matthew.gamette@thecfso.org
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