TOXIC or NON-TOXIC: TRUTH OR DARE?

Several deaths in Ireland are related to substance intoxication in the setting of suicides and road traffic accidents. These deaths involve comprehensive investigation including forensic toxicology and autopsy pathology.

The Toxic Truth: Medicine, Poisons & Forensic Science

With Professor Geraldine M. Dowling, PhD, PFHEA, SFHEA

Professor Geraldine M. Dowling, PhD, PFHEA, is a forensic and analytical toxicologist who bridges science, accreditation and the law. Her work developing novel methodologies whilst securing INAB accreditation, supports state science agencies nationally and internationally. She is also the creator and host of The Analytical Zen Podcast and The Global MOOC in Forensic Toxicology making science accessible to a wider audience.

As the elected Vice Chair of the United Kingdom and Ireland Association of Forensic Toxicologists (UKIAFT), she works to advance rigorous scientific and legal standards, best practice and education across England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales, the Republic of Ireland, and the Channel Islands, ensuring that toxicological evidence meets strict court requirements. She is also the elected Irish Regional Representative for the International Association of Forensic Toxicologists (TIAFT).

Furthermore, she was invited as an advisor to Irish Government working groups, including the Emerging Drug Trends and Drug Checking Working Group focusing on initiatives like festival harm reduction. A dedicated mentor, she guides students and colleagues in publishing within medical, analytical and forensic journals; mentors third-level academics pursuing Advance HE Senior Fellowship; serves as an ATU Engage-accredited Advance HE Fellowship assessor; and supports second/third level educators incorporating Universal Design for Learning and Community-Based Learning pedagogies in their teaching.

Overview of Autopsy Pathology

With Professor Paul Hartel, MD

An engaging talk by Professor Paul Hartel, MD. Prof. Hartel is Clinical Lead Consultant Histopathologist at Sligo University Hospital and Professor of Medicine with the Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine at West Virginia University School of Medicine, USA. He is active in teaching and research, facilitating ATU student placements and guiding their research project publications in peer-reviewed medical journals. Hartel is an expert witness for Irish and US law firms and engages in research and lectures, nationally and internationally.

Plus music after the talks

Note: strickly over 18's only as bar setting