From CMB to Forensic Science

Jeannie Kane graduated in 2024 with an M.S. in Cell and Molecular Biology with a Biotechnology Emphasis. She now works as a Forensic Scientist with the Michigan State Police in the Latent Print Unit.

What CMB experience had the greatest impact on your career?

My eight-month internship at the Michigan State Police Grand Rapids Forensic Laboratory had the greatest impact. I helped validate a GC-MS instrument and investigated the recovery of touch DNA from personal-use items. Attending a forensic science conference sponsored by GVSU also helped me build professional connections and explore career opportunities.

How has your CMB education helped you in your career?

My CMB education helped build professional skills that align with my current job, including teamwork, attention to detail, and scientific reasoning.

What advice would you give current CMB students?

Be open to exploring different career paths. A CMB degree can lead to opportunities in research, healthcare, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, forensic science, and many other fields. You don't have to have your entire career planned out before graduating.