Eberly News

The evidence traces back to the University of Costa Rica. That’s where Luis Arroyo, a research assistant, met Tatiana Trejos, who was wrapping up her degree in chemistry. They became close friends, found common interests and fell in love. That love for each other – and unraveling truth through science – eventually led them from the “world’s happiest country” to the Mountain State.

Before the existence of procedural crime dramas like “Bones” and the “CSI” franchise, Tatiana Trejos took on an internship at the Costa Rican Department of Forensic Science. Forensics in popular culture hadn’t hit its peak and Trejos had little idea of what she was getting into.

Eight West Virginia University graduate students from across the U.S. and beyond are engaging in meaningful research as they complete their degrees with support from WVU Foundation scholarships.

Tatiana Trejos, assistant professor in the West Virginia University Department of Forensic and Investigative Science, and graduate student Meghan Prusinowski have developed a one-of-a-kind method that can help piece together a crime scene by literally piecing the evidence together. Or not.

Discoveries by West Virginia University forensic scientists about how gunshot residue behaves on skin, hair and fabric will allow crime scene investigators to catch up to the proliferation of new, eco-friendly types of ammunition and make faster, more informed decisions at crime scenes and in forensic laboratories.

Major: Forensic Biology
Hometown: Ashburn, Virginia

The Eberly College of Arts and Sciences has recognized 64 outstanding seniors, graduate teaching assistants and graduating Eberly Scholars for their academic achievements in 2020-2021.

Meet May 2021 forensic and investigative science grad Kat Ramirez.

The Eberly College of Arts and Sciences has named recipients for its 2020-2021 awards for faculty and staff. In total, the Eberly College recognized 11 individuals across four categories for their talent, commitment and service to the College and WVU.