A University of Worcester lecturer has been awarded a prestigious fellowship from the professional body she first joined as an undergraduate student.
Dr Samantha Pickles, Senior Lecturer in Forensic Science, has been elected a Fellow of the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences (FCSFS), one of the highest levels of professional recognition awarded by the organisation. The fellowship celebrates individuals who have made a significant and sustained contribution to forensic science and related disciplines.
Samantha, who joined the University of Worcester in 2025, has worked in the forensic sciences since 2002. During her career she has specialised as an entomologist, using insect evidence in criminal investigations.
She has since continued her interests in non-human biology and formed the Animal Related Crime Working Group, an organisation which has brought about changes in legislation, professional practice, and educational accreditation standards.
Fellowship of the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences is reserved for highly accomplished professionals who have demonstrated distinction through their practice, research, leadership, or contribution to the advancement of forensic science.
“It feels somewhat surreal to receive this fellowship,” said Samantha. “I first became a member of the Society well over 25 years ago, when I joined as a student. Despite gaining my ‘dream job’ and working with some of the world’s foremost experts, I would never have considered the possibility that I too, might have something to contribute to the discipline.”
Looking back on her own journey, Samantha has some advice for aspiring forensic scientists: “You never really know what the future holds or what you’re capable of. I was the first person in my family to go to university, and I was worried about everything, but so was everyone else.”
“Yes, there will be challenges,” she added. “but there will be successes too, so work as hard as you can, seize all of the opportunities available, and when it doubt, think about what the ‘future you’ would want.”
For more information on courses in forensic science at the University of Worcester, visit the course pages.