Scientific Services

Scientist with microscope and computer

Forensic and laboratory services to support CT law enforcement

The Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection's (DESPP) Division of Scientific Services (DSS) provides unbiased forensic analysis for local, state and federal agencies.

The DSS has a diverse team. It is led by the director and assisted by deputy directors and managers who lead the different sections of the DSS. The team includes forensic examiners, CT career trainees, and lab assistants. Additionally, the DSS team includes evidence control offices, state troopers, and various support personnel. Their mission is to provide impartial, forensic analysis. On this page, you’ll find:

  • Jobs and internships
  • Guidelines and examination types
  • All Scientific Services units
  • Scientific Services forms
  • Contact information and directory
Learn the history of CT DESPP Scientific Services  

Welcome to Scientific Services

Welcome Message from Director Dr. Guy Vallaro

Welcome Message from Director Dr. Guy Vallaro

On behalf of the dedicated forensic science professionals, I am proud to welcome you to the Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection’s Division of Scientific Services website. I hope you find this site informative and educational.
Read full message from Director Dr. Guy Vallaro  

Scientific Services jobs and internships

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Find rewarding career opportunities with CT DESPP Scientific Services

If you are interested in forensic science, we have great jobs and internships available. DSS internships give you real-world knowledge. You'll enjoy working on interesting cases and gaining valuable experience. You might help with quality control, data analysis, or storing evidence. When working for DSS, you can feel good about helping to solve crimes and keep people safer in CT.

Scientific Services examinations and guidelines

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Evidence Submission Guidelines (PDF)
Guidelines on how to submit evidence to maintain integrity and chain of custody. Includes submission of biological samples, firearms, and digital devices.
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Guidelines for Cold Cases (PDF)
Find instructions on how to prepare and submit cold cases for re-examination. Includes guidelines for submitting reports, evidence, and DNA.
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Type and Extent of Examinations (PDF)
DSS is accredited for forensic lab testing. Learn about the lab and forensic tests we perform. They include biology, digital analysis, firearms, and toxicology.

All Scientific Services units

Case Management Unit 

The liaison between the DSS and law enforcement agencies, state’s attorney, and public defenders. Manages case details, priorities, and communications.

Chemistry Unit 

Analyzes fire evidence to identify chemicals, using advanced techniques like headspace analysis and GC/MS.

Computer Crimes and Electronic Evidence Unit 

Examines devices like computers, phones, and gaming systems for investigation of cybercrimes. Analyzes electronic evidence.

Controlled Substance 

Analyzes drugs and drug paraphernalia, and aids in drug lab investigations.

DNA Unit 

Analyzes DNA to solve cases, identify missing persons, and compare evidence, using advanced methods like CODIS.

Evidence Receiving Unit 

Manages evidence submissions, ensuring storage, chain of custody, and testing for various forensic cases.

Firearms Unit 

Analyzes firearms and ammunition to identify weapons used, and compares tool marks to link crimes.

Forensic Biology Unit 

Examines crime evidence for body fluids, touch DNA, and hairs, forwarding key samples for DNA analysis.

Quality Assurance 

Ensured the Division of Scientific Servies is maintaining accreditation standards.

Latent Print Unit 

Analyzes latent prints, compares to known prints, and uses AFIS/NGI systems to aid in criminal investigations.

Multimedia and Image Enhancement Unit 

Enhances video, audio, and photos for investigations, aiding in identification and legal case preparation.

Toxicology Unit 

Analyzes body fluids for drugs, alcohol, and toxins to support DUI, DFSA, and postmortem investigations.

Latest news and updates

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WTNH-TV interviews Forensic Science Examiner Liz Arpin

Read how CT police access suspect phones  
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Commissioner praises students’ Emergency Operations Center

Learn about the Emergency Operations Center  
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DESPP Scientific Services welcomes intern Brian Edson

Learn more about our internship program  

Contact Scientific Services

Director:
Guy M. Vallaro, Ph.D.
Director, Division of Scientific Services
Email: Guy.Vallaro@ct.gov

Address:
278 Colony Street
Meriden, Connecticut 06451

Phone: 203-639-6400
Fax: 203-639-6485

Hours of all Divisions:
Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Closed on Saturday and Sundays

Scientific Services contact persons

Administration

Jeremy M. Miller, M.S.
Scientific Services Administrative Manager
Email: Jeremy.M.Miller@ct.gov

Chemical Analysis

Jessica Gleba, Ph.D.
Director of Forensic Laboratory Operations
Email: Jessica.Gleba@ct.gov

Grants, Budget, Fiscal, Purchasing and Legal

Michael Rickenbach, Ph.D.
Deputy Director,
Grants, Budget, Fiscal, Purchasing & Legal
Email: Michael.Rickenbach@ct.gov