March 31, 2025

By Kaitlyn Wagner ’27

Syllabus is an ongoing series of stories that gives readers an inside look at some of Susquehanna’s most interesting classes.

The Class: Forensic Chemistry, CHEM-305

The Professor: Lou Ann Tom, chemistry

Lou Ann Tom, associate professor of chemistryWhat if a single drop of blood could be the key to solving a murder? Is a single strand of hair enough to put a person behind bars?

In Forensic Chemistry, taught by Lou Ann Tom, associate professor of chemistry, students work in groups to solve a criminal case. Each week new evidence is revealed, and the case builds until students present their final project as a court case.

Susquehanna’s Forensic Chemistry course explores the challenges, methods and ethics of forensic chemistry. Students learn core chemical and biological concepts, including quality assurance, evidence collection and forensic toxicology, such as analyzing seized drugs and testing for drugs in the body. They also study other investigative techniques, including analyzing combustion, explosives, firearms, colorants, polymers, paper, fibers and DNA. Additionally, students examine basic ethical questions related to forensic science.

“The potential consequences of ethical lapses in forensic science are far-reaching, and this awareness has strengthened my commitment to upholding the highest standards in my future work,” said biomedical sciences major Samantha Kline ’26, of Raleigh, North Carolina. “The hands-on laboratory experience has equipped me with practical skills and familiarity with advanced techniques, preparing me for real-world applications.”

Tom includes key concepts from her Instrumental Analysis course in Forensic Chemistry to stay current with new technical developments. In Instrumental Analysis, students learn about atomic and molecular spectroscopy, covering the chemical principles behind the techniques, how the instruments work and their practical applications.

“Dr. Tom’s expertise and passion for the subject makes the learning experience incredibly enriching and inspiring,” Kline said.

Learn more about Susquehanna’s chemistry majors — biochemistry, chemistry & secondary education, chemistry management, as well as Susquehanna’s engineering 3+2 and pharmacy 3+4 programs.