A crime scene may look ordinary at first glance, but science can uncover clues hidden in plain sight! On Thursday, October 15th, VINSE welcomed 15 students from Gallatin High School to our Forensics Lab. Students became forensic investigators for the day, using Raman, FTIR, absorption, and photoluminescence spectroscopy to examine evidence and work through a whodunnit-style mystery. Along the way, they explored spectroscopy through additional hands-on activities, including extracting chlorophyll from spinach, analyzing perfumes, and collecting spectra from different pieces of jewelry.
Special thanks to our NanoGuides Ginny An, Chris Boyd, Emmanuel Dabuo, and Juliette Reeder for their invaluable assistance throughout the program. They guided students through forensic challenges and fundamental scientific questions while making the experience educational and engaging!
Would your students enjoy exploring science firsthand at VINSE? Contact vinse@vanderbilt.edu to find out how your school can participate.