Rate My Professor Samuel Cornwell

Samuel Cornwell, full name Samuel John Cornwell, is a Senior Forensic Scientist employed in Western Australia, affiliated with the Forensic Biology Department of PathWest Laboratory Medicine WA. PathWest's 2021 Annual Report references forensic scientists like Sam Cornwell who rely on traces of DNA invisible to the human eye for investigations. He served as one of the supervisors for Katherine Dilley's Masters by Coursework thesis at Murdoch University, titled 'Optimising silica-based solid phase DNA extraction methods for low DNA yield casework samples', completed in 2019. The thesis focused on improving DNA extraction techniques for minute biological samples prevalent in modern forensic laboratories, where increased genotyping sensitivities have made trace DNA analysis routine. Other supervisors were Brendan Chapman, F. Pagan, and M. Rye.

Cornwell's guidance was acknowledged in the 2021 publication of the research in Forensic Science International: Genetics, where Sam Cornwell and Marie Rye from PathWest provided valuable input on the practical forensic applications of the optimised methods. This collaboration underscores links between PathWest Laboratory Medicine WA and Murdoch University's School of Medical, Molecular and Forensic Sciences, supporting education in forensic DNA analysis as seen in course materials like BIO359 Forensic DNA Analysis, which include examples of his professional statements under Section 50B of the Evidence Act 1906.