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Title: Assistant Professor, Forensic Science
Education: Postdoctoral Appointment, Office of the Director of
National Intelligence US Government Fellowship, 2010-2012;
Ph.D., Florida International University, 2010
Research Area: Forensic Analytical Chemistry
Office: 110E Lab: Bldg 555 Lab 120/121
Phone: (806) 834-0983 (Office)
Fax: (806) 885-4577
Email: paola.tiedemann@ttu.edu
PRADA-TIEDEMANN RESEARCH GROUP FOCUS AREAS
Research efforts in our group are centered in the main scope of "volatolomics", specifically in the analysis of volatile organic compounds from biological as well as other forensic specimens which could yield a chemical odor profile useful for discriminatory and identification purposes. To achieve these objectives, the analytical methods implemented in our laboratory include the use of instrumentation such as gas chromatography/mass spectrometry and solid phase microextraction that allow the efficient extraction and detection of target analytes with minor sample disturbance. Our particular interest is in understanding the complex odor picture available to the canine nose in the many military and law enforcement applications of working dog canine teams. Additionally, we are focusing our efforts on not only the analytical chemistry component, but also in monitoring canine response and threshold levels with concurrent canine field testing.
This is an image of a canine nose
CURRENT FORENSIC RESEARCH AREAS
Human Odor Traces
One major subject of study in our laboratory is that of forensic odorology. A young discipline in the Western hemisphere, this area of forensic science focuses on the evaluation of human odor volatiles as a biometric measurement to discriminate individuals. Using traces of odor to detect and prosecute criminals, establish connections between victim-assailants, and ultimate detection, and preservation is the fundamental reasoning for all our experimental designs. Since the beginning stages of this work, we are now in a position to further exploit a subject's odor profile and target the analysis to extract more information from an odor sample, ranging from questions stemming from disease conditions, addiction, and even geographical origin. An active component of this work is to understand how a human odor profile can yield information of controlled substance intake from addictive populations.
Wound Pathogens
In collaboration with Texas Tech’s Health Sciences Center and the Rumbaugh Lab, we are utilizing solid-phase micro-extraction (SPME) and gas-chromatography mass-spectrometry (GC-MS), using an in vivo model to compare VOCs present in the chronic wound environment to those present in vitro. Individual species of microbes have specific molecular makeups, including specific volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which are also thought to be unique to each organism. Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus are two of the most common chronic wound pathogens and are highly multidrug resistant.
Explosive Odor Residues
In collaboration with Texas Tech's Canine Olfaction laboratory, a current project is underway to understand how to better prepare explosive canine training aids using an olfactometer as a mechanism to prepare a range of odor mixtures. This project responds to a need within national security purposes to better train canines to the range of complex odor mixtures encountered with homemade explosive devices. This work entails a thorough analysis of odorants as well as optimized methods of collection to yield optimal training aids.
Narcotic Odors
Our laboratory has partnered with Lubbock Police Department K9 unit to investigate narcotic odor as a function of time. Does the age of a training aid affect canine performance? The use of canines for drug detection is paramount for national security and law enforcement purposes. In an effort to provide scientific foundation for canine drug detection, it is vital to understand the optimal lifespan of a training aid via both instrumental and canine field testing.
Decomposition Odor Traces
Another area of study within our laboratory focuses on the study of volatile organic compounds emanating from decomposition. This section of our laboratory entails understanding VOCs from matrices such as blood, larval masses (insects), soil and related tissues using pigs as our animal model of study. The need to better estimate postmortem intervals is critical and the research in our laboratory focuses on using volatolomics as a viable source of information to target decomposition Example Timelines in forensic investigations.
Dr. Paola A. Prada-Tiedemann's Research Group
Graduate Students
Ashlee Boyd
I am currently a second-year graduate student at Texas Tech University studying Forensic Science with a concentration in Forensic Investigation. I attended Baylor University where I received my B.S. in Anthropology with a minor in Forensic Science. This past summer, I completed my internship at the Willed Body Program at the Institute of Anatomical Sciences at Texas Tech Health Science Center.
A. Celeste Medrano
I am from El Paso, TX and attended New Mexico State University in Las Cruces, NM where I received my B.S. in Biology with minors in Psychology and Forensic Science. I am now a senior graduate student pursuing a masters degree in Forensic Science with a concentration in forensic chemistry. My research involves analyzing the volatile odor profiles of pig tissue samples at various stages of decomposition via SPME and GC-MS. The objective of this research is to analyze and determine the effects of various storage conditions on the durability and stability of decomposition training aids used for cadaver dogs. I also work on a collaborative project with the Canine Olfaction Lab in which we are attempting to generalize human scent for canine detection purposes. My hobbies include reading, going out for runs, listening to podcasts, and watching thriller movies.
Ariela Cantu
I am originally from Lubbock, but grew up in Austin, Texas. I am currently a senior graduate student at Texas Tech University in the Forensic Science Master's Program with a concentration in Forensic Chemistry. I received my B.S in Biology, with a minor in Sociology, from the University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio, Texas, where I also played on the women's soccer team as a NCAA D1 athlete. My research revolves around the volatile organic compound profile of the Spotted Lanternfly, an invasive species. The goal is to better inform pest control mitigation strategies utilizing trap technologies and canine detection teams. I also work on a collaborative project with the Canine Olfaction Lab, where our goal is to generalize human scent for canine detection purposes. In my free time, I enjoy working out and spending time with my family, friends, and my two chihuahuas, Ruby and Raisin.
Gavin Monroe
I am a graduate student at Texas Tech University in the forensic science Master’s program. I got my bachelor's degree in Sociology with a Criminology concentration and a minor in Family Life Studies from Texas Tech University. My objective for this program is to gain more knowledge about crime scene investigations and understand why and how the crime occurred, I want to pursue a career in crime scene investigation post-graduation. My personal hobbies include golf, watching sports, and discovering new places.
Juliet Denapoli
• Undergrad: University of Texas at Austin (UT) studied Chemistry with Certificate in Secondary Education
• Graduate: Forensic Chemistry Concentration
• Personal interests: raising betta fish and other aquatic animals, playing the sims, and watching "clean tok"
Salem Smith
Salem is originally from Hobbs, NM though she attended Erskine College & Seminary in South Carolina where she earned a B.S. in Biology and minored in Chemistry and Bible/Religion. Salem is currently a graduate student in the Forensic Science Program with a Forensic chemistry concentration. Her current research with Dr. Prada-Tiedemann includes the utilization of SPME and GC-MS for firearm odor profiling. Salem's personal interest range from golfing, hunting, or traveling with her husband and daughter.
Jesus Rodriguez
Jesus Rodriguez is a graduate student at Texas Tech University in the Forensic Science Master's program. He obtained his Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Forensic Science from Sam Houston State University. Jesus' research interest is in latent fingerprints. He is currently studying the development of standard operating procedures (SOP) for latent print collection from living and decomposing human skin. The study seeks to promote innovation in the creation and betterment of SOPs relating to fingerprint collection from human skin through a better understanding of the historically and currently used fingerprint techniques or SOPs. In his spare time, Jesus enjoys trying new foods and spending time with his family.
UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT(S)
Katlyn Perez
I am a Junior at Texas Tech University, where I am pursuing my bachelor’s degree in Biology and obtaining a minor in chemistry. I am also pursuing an applied music minor for vocal performance. My long-term goal is to become a pediatric dentist; however, I have become interested in odontology as a possible career choice. Some hobbies I enjoy include reading, singing, watching movies, and watching TV shows.
I am so thankful to be working in the lab here, as it has been eye-opening to the opportunities available to me, and I have enjoyed my time.
M. Nayelly Rangel
I am an undergraduate student at Texas Tech majoring in Biology with minors in Chemistry and Forensic Science. I hope to pursue a master's degree in Forensic Chemistry. In my spare time, I like to read, watch movies, and play an occasional escape room.
PREVIOUS GRADUATE STUDENTS
KATIE BLANAR
The use of Entomological samples as potential odor biomarkers for decomposition, M.S. - 2019.
KIANA HOLBROOK
The instrumental evaluation of blood decomposition volatiles on various substrates and their relationship to presumptive
test methods, M.S. - 2019.
JENNIFER RAYMER
Evaluation of decomposition residual odor using susscrofa as sampling model, M.S. - 2019.
THY NGUYEN
A Novel Method for the Creation of Explosive Detection Training Aids for Canines using an Olfactometer, M.S. - 2018.
Amanda Patrick
Condom Odor Profiling with HS-SPME and Temperature effect on Condom Fingerprint Development, M.S. - 2018.
LAUREN ALEJANDRO
The Evaluation of Canine Training Aids Over Time on Working Dog Performance, M.S. - 2018
SILAS KEMBOI
Hand Odor Volatiles and Drug Abuse: A Pilot Study using a Chemical Dependent Target Group, M.S. - 2018
KASHMIERE MCGEE
Human Skeletal Evidence: Perspectives for Narcotrafficking Group Identifications Through Modus Operandi From Costa Rica, M.S. - 2018
COURTNEY BROWN
Arsenic fed piglets: Assessing arsenic levels in decomposing pig tissues and soil samples, M.S. - 2017
MICHAEL RADFORD
Fingerprint Visualization on Condoms, M.S. – 2016
Forensic Analytical Chemistry and Odor Profiling Laboratory
Forensic Analytical Chemistry
and Odor Profiling Laboratory
Dr. Paola A. Prada-Tiedemann
Title: Assistant Professor, Forensic Science
Education: Postdoctoral Appointment, Office of the Director of
National Intelligence US Government Fellowship, 2010-2012;
Ph.D., Florida International University, 2010
Research Area: Forensic Analytical Chemistry
Office: 110E Lab: Bldg 555 Lab 120/121
Phone: (806) 834-0983 (Office)
Fax: (806) 885-4577
Email: paola.tiedemann@ttu.edu
PRADA-TIEDEMANN RESEARCH GROUP FOCUS AREAS
Research efforts in our group are centered in the main scope of "volatolomics", specifically in the analysis of volatile organic compounds from biological as well as other forensic specimens which could yield a chemical odor profile useful for discriminatory and identification purposes. To achieve these objectives, the analytical methods implemented in our laboratory include the use of instrumentation such as gas chromatography/mass spectrometry and solid phase microextraction that allow the efficient extraction and detection of target analytes with minor sample disturbance. Our particular interest is in understanding the complex odor picture available to the canine nose in the many military and law enforcement applications of working dog canine teams. Additionally, we are focusing our efforts on not only the analytical chemistry component, but also in monitoring canine response and threshold levels with concurrent canine field testing.
This is an image of a canine nose
CURRENT FORENSIC RESEARCH AREAS
Human Odor Traces
One major subject of study in our laboratory is that of forensic odorology. A young discipline in the Western hemisphere, this area of forensic science focuses on the evaluation of human odor volatiles as a biometric measurement to discriminate individuals. Using traces of odor to detect and prosecute criminals, establish connections between victim-assailants, and ultimate detection, and preservation is the fundamental reasoning for all our experimental designs. Since the beginning stages of this work, we are now in a position to further exploit a subject's odor profile and target the analysis to extract more information from an odor sample, ranging from questions stemming from disease conditions, addiction, and even geographical origin. An active component of this work is to understand how a human odor profile can yield information of controlled substance intake from addictive populations.
Wound Pathogens
In collaboration with Texas Tech’s Health Sciences Center and the Rumbaugh Lab, we are utilizing solid-phase micro-extraction (SPME) and gas-chromatography mass-spectrometry (GC-MS), using an in vivo model to compare VOCs present in the chronic wound environment to those present in vitro. Individual species of microbes have specific molecular makeups, including specific volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which are also thought to be unique to each organism. Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus are two of the most common chronic wound pathogens and are highly multidrug resistant.
Explosive Odor Residues
In collaboration with Texas Tech's Canine Olfaction laboratory, a current project is underway to understand how to better prepare explosive canine training aids using an olfactometer as a mechanism to prepare a range of odor mixtures. This project responds to a need within national security purposes to better train canines to the range of complex odor mixtures encountered with homemade explosive devices. This work entails a thorough analysis of odorants as well as optimized methods of collection to yield optimal training aids.
Narcotic Odors
Our laboratory has partnered with Lubbock Police Department K9 unit to investigate narcotic odor as a function of time. Does the age of a training aid affect canine performance? The use of canines for drug detection is paramount for national security and law enforcement purposes. In an effort to provide scientific foundation for canine drug detection, it is vital to understand the optimal lifespan of a training aid via both instrumental and canine field testing.
Decomposition Odor Traces
Another area of study within our laboratory focuses on the study of volatile organic compounds emanating from decomposition. This section of our laboratory entails understanding VOCs from matrices such as blood, larval masses (insects), soil and related tissues using pigs as our animal model of study. The need to better estimate postmortem intervals is critical and the research in our laboratory focuses on using volatolomics as a viable source of information to target decomposition Example Timelines in forensic investigations.
Forensic Analytical Chemistry and Odor Profiling Laboratory
Dr. Paola A. Prada-Tiedemann's Research Group
Current Graduate Students
Ashlee Boyd
I am currently a second-year graduate student at Texas Tech University studying Forensic Science with a concentration in Forensic Investigation. I attended Baylor University where I received my B.S. in Anthropology with a minor in Forensic Science. This past summer, I completed my internship at the Willed Body Program at the Institute of Anatomical Sciences at Texas Tech Health Science Center.
Ariela Cantu
I am originally from Lubbock, but grew up in Austin, Texas. I am currently a senior graduate student at Texas Tech University in the Forensic Science Master's Program with a concentration in Forensic Chemistry. I received my B.S in Biology, with a minor in Sociology, from the University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio, Texas, where I also played on the women's soccer team as a NCAA D1 athlete. My research revolves around the volatile organic compound profile of the Spotted Lanternfly, an invasive species. The goal is to better inform pest control mitigation strategies utilizing trap technologies and canine detection teams. I also work on a collaborative project with the Canine Olfaction Lab, where our goal is to generalize human scent for canine detection purposes. In my free time, I enjoy working out and spending time with my family, friends, and my two chihuahuas, Ruby and Raisin.
A. Celeste Medrano
I am from El Paso, TX and attended New Mexico State University in Las Cruces, NM where I received my B.S. in Biology with minors in Psychology and Forensic Science. I am now a senior graduate student pursuing a masters degree in Forensic Science with a concentration in forensic chemistry. My research involves analyzing the volatile odor profiles of pig tissue samples at various stages of decomposition via SPME and GC-MS. The objective of this research is to analyze and determine the effects of various storage conditions on the durability and stability of decomposition training aids used for cadaver dogs. I also work on a collaborative project with the Canine Olfaction Lab in which we are attempting to generalize human scent for canine detection purposes. My hobbies include reading, going out for runs, listening to podcasts, and watching thriller movies.
Gavin Monroe
I am a graduate student at Texas Tech University in the forensic science Master’s program. I got my bachelor's degree in Sociology with a Criminology concentration and a minor in Family Life Studies from Texas Tech University. My objective for this program is to gain more knowledge about crime scene investigations and understand why and how the crime occurred, I want to pursue a career in crime scene investigation post-graduation. My personal hobbies include golf, watching sports, and discovering new places.
Juliet Denapoli
• Undergrad: University of Texas at Austin (UT) studied Chemistry with Certificate in Secondary Education
• Graduate: Forensic Chemistry Concentration
• Personal interests: raising betta fish and other aquatic animals, playing the sims, and watching "clean tok"
Jesus Rodriguez
Jesus Rodriguez is a graduate student at Texas Tech University in the Forensic Science Master's program. He obtained his Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Forensic Science from Sam Houston State University. Jesus' research interest is in latent fingerprints. He is currently studying the development of standard operating procedures (SOP) for latent print collection from living and decomposing human skin. The study seeks to promote innovation in the creation and betterment of SOPs relating to fingerprint collection from human skin through a better understanding of the historically and currently used fingerprint techniques or SOPs. In his spare time, Jesus enjoys trying new foods and spending time with his family.
Salem Smith
Salem is originally from Hobbs, NM though she attended Erskine College & Seminary in South Carolina where she earned a B.S. in Biology and minored in Chemistry and Bible/Religion. Salem is currently a graduate student in the Forensic Science Program with a Forensic chemistry concentration. Her current research with Dr. Prada-Tiedemann includes the utilization of SPME and GC-MS for firearm odor profiling. Salem's personal interest range from golfing, hunting, or traveling with her husband and daughter.
UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT(S)
M. Nayelly Rangel
I am an undergraduate student at Texas Tech majoring in Biology with minors in Chemistry and Forensic Science. I hope to pursue a master's degree in Forensic Chemistry. In my spare time, I like to read, watch movies, and play an occasional escape room.
Katlyn Perez
I am a Junior at Texas Tech University, where I am pursuing my bachelor’s degree in Biology and obtaining a minor in chemistry. I am also pursuing an applied music minor for vocal performance. My long-term goal is to become a pediatric dentist; however, I have become interested in odontology as a possible career choice. Some hobbies I enjoy include reading, singing, watching movies, and watching TV shows.
I am so thankful to be working in the lab here, as it has been eye-opening to the opportunities available to me, and I have enjoyed my time.
PREVIOUS GRADUATE STUDENTS
KATIE BLANAR
The use of Entomological samples as potential odor biomarkers for decomposition, M.S. - 2019.
KIANA HOLBROOK
The instrumental evaluation of blood decomposition volatiles on various substrates and their relationship to presumptive
test methods, M.S. - 2019.
JENNIFER RAYMER
Evaluation of decomposition residual odor using susscrofa as sampling model, M.S. - 2019.
THY NGUYEN
A Novel Method for the Creation of Explosive Detection Training Aids for Canines using an Olfactometer, M.S. - 2018.
Amanda Patrick
Condom Odor Profiling with HS-SPME and Temperature effect on Condom Fingerprint Development, M.S. - 2018.
LAUREN ALEJANDRO
The Evaluation of Canine Training Aids Over Time on Working Dog Performance, M.S. - 2018
SILAS KEMBOI
Hand Odor Volatiles and Drug Abuse: A Pilot Study using a Chemical Dependent Target Group, M.S. - 2018
KASHMIERE MCGEE
Human Skeletal Evidence: Perspectives for Narcotrafficking Group Identifications Through Modus Operandi From Costa Rica, M.S. - 2018
COURTNEY BROWN
Arsenic fed piglets: Assessing arsenic levels in decomposing pig tissues and soil samples, M.S. - 2017
MICHAEL RADFORD
Fingerprint Visualization on Condoms, M.S. – 2016
Forensic Analytical Chemistry and Odor Profiling Laboratory