Ms. SREELAKSHMI KRISHNA | Forensic Physics | Best Researcher Award

NATIONAL FORENSIC SCIENCES UNIVERSITY- India

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Early Academic Pursuits

Sreelakshmi Krishna’s journey in academia began with a solid foundation in science, particularly in physics and mathematics. She pursued an Integrated M.Sc. in Physics/Mathematics from Amrita Viswa Vidyapeetham, India, from 2013 to 2018, graduating with first-class honors and a thesis on “Understanding Solid State (Metal Oxide based) Gas Sensors” under the guidance of Dr. K.M.K. Srivatsa at the National Physical Laboratory, New Delhi. This early engagement in scientific research and rigorous academic training laid the groundwork for her future endeavors in forensic science.

Professional Endeavors

After completing her M.Sc., Sreelakshmi Krishna embarked on a career that intertwined teaching and advanced research. In 2019, she served as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Forensic Science at PM Thevar College, Madurai, India. This role not only honed her teaching skills but also deepened her understanding of forensic science applications. Currently, she is a Research Scholar at the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India, working on her PhD in Forensic Physical Sciences with a focus on ballistics. Her thesis, “Study on the correlation of the Physico-chemical properties of GSR particles with distance, passage of time, and ambient factors,” demonstrates her commitment to advancing forensic methodologies.

Contributions and Research Focus

Sreelakshmi Krishna’s research is characterized by its meticulous focus on Gunshot Residue (GSR) analysis for forensic applications. She has extensively characterized GSR using advanced techniques such as SEM-EDS, Raman Spectroscopy, ICP-MS, and EDXRF. Her work on the physicochemical properties of GSR, including degradation studies and method development for traceability enhancement, is particularly noteworthy. Additionally, she is working on the development of an on-spot OGSR testing device using Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS), which promises to revolutionize field forensic investigations.

Her computational and software skills include proficiency in Origin Pro, Spectragryph, and Trasoscan Imaging System for image processing, along with a basic understanding of MATLAB and familiarity with C programming. Her instrumentation skills are comprehensive, covering tools such as the FARO 3-D Scanner, EDXRF, SEM/EDS, Raman Spectroscopy, and various forensic imaging systems.

Accolades and Recognition

Sreelakshmi Krishna’s dedication and excellence in her field have been recognized through various awards and accolades. Notably, she received the “Best Young Women Scientist Award” at the 5th International Conference on Forensic Research & Toxicology in 2023. This prestigious award highlights her contributions to forensic science and her potential as a leading researcher in the field.

Impact and Influence

Sreelakshmi’s research has a significant impact on forensic science, particularly in the area of ballistics. Her studies on GSR particles from 9×19 mm Indian ammunition have provided valuable insights into the behavior of these particles under various conditions, enhancing the accuracy and reliability of forensic analyses. Her work on developing on-spot testing kits for OGSR could streamline forensic investigations, making them more efficient and accessible in field conditions. Her publications in reputable journals and presentations at international conferences have further disseminated her findings, influencing both academic and practical aspects of forensic science.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Sreelakshmi Krishna is poised to make lasting contributions to forensic science. Her ongoing research at NFSU, coupled with her teaching experience and interdisciplinary approach, positions her to be a leader in forensic research and education. Her future work will likely continue to innovate and improve forensic methodologies, particularly in the area of GSR analysis and field applications.