Pioneering forensic scientist Wayne Chisnall is to receive the John Harber Phillips Award, which aims to ‘promote, recognise and reward an individual’s outstanding contributions to the advancement of forensic science in Australia and New Zealand’.
Wayne Chisnall is the now-retired general manager of forensics at the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR).
Chisnall was a strong advocate for forensic science during difficult times in the late 90s and early 00s, which resulted in the formation of New Zealand’s first dedicated DNA forensic facility.
Chisnall also found continued investment over the years to support forensic science as illegal methamphetamine labs became more common, and investments into DNA technology have allowed a number of unsolved cases and cold cases to be solved.
In order to support forensic science, Chisnall initiated the development of a Forensic Research Programme, which has since become well respected and supported.
Finally, Chisnall helped to strengthen the links between New Zealand’s forensic scientists and their Australian counterparts, participating in a number of forensic groups which are active in both countries.
The award was created last year in memory of Hon. Professor John Harber Phillip’s work in the field of forensics, and to demonstrate the commitment of the Australia New Zealand Policing Advisory Agency National Institute of Forensic Science (ANZPAA NIFS) to the advancement of forensics in both New Zealand and Australia.
The Award, and accompanying medal, will be presented at a dinner to be held in Canberra on 25 November 2010.
Statements are available on the ANZPAA and ESR websites. For further information or comments, contact the SMC.