Organization of Scientific Area Committees (OSAC) for Forensic Science

Abstract

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) established the Organization of Scientific Area Committees (OSAC) for Forensic Science in 2014 to address a lack of discipline-specific forensic science standards. OSAC’s mission is to strengthen the nation׳s use of forensic science by facilitating the development of technically sound standards and guidelines and encourage their use throughout the forensic science community. OSAC’s 800-plus members and affiliates work in forensic laboratories and other institutions around the country and have expertise in 22 forensic disciplines, as well as scientific research, measurement science, statistics, law, and policy. OSAC drafts and evaluates forensic science standards via a transparent, consensus-based process that allows for participation by all stakeholders.