Lucas Zarwell

Lucas Zarwell serves as the Office Director for the Office of Investigative and Forensic Sciences at the National Institute of Justice (NIJ), where he leads a team of forensic science experts. His work focuses on advancing research and development initiatives, establishing best practices, sharing key findings, and promoting the adoption of innovative forensic technologies across the nation. A certified toxicologist by the American Board of Forensic Toxicology, Mr. Zarwell holds a Masters in Forensic Science from George Washington University and an undergraduate degree in both marine science and biology. His current priorities include developing NIJ’s next Forensic Science Operational Needs Assessment, enhancing the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs), and expanding NIJ’s portfolio of externally funded forensic science research.

 Lucas Zarwell serves as the Office Director for the Office of Investigative and Forensic Sciences at the National Institute of Justice (NIJ), where he leads a team of forensic science experts. His work focuses on advancing research and development initiatives, establishing best practices, sharing key findings, and promoting the adoption of innovative forensic technologies across the nation. 

A certified toxicologist by the American Board of Forensic Toxicology, Mr. Zarwell holds a Masters in Forensic Science from George Washington University and an undergraduate degree in both marine science and biology. His current priorities include developing NIJ’s next Forensic Science Operational Needs Assessment, enhancing the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs), and expanding NIJ’s portfolio of externally funded forensic science research.