Joseph A. DiZinno, DDS received a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree from the University of Notre Dame and a Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) degree from Ohio State University. After practicing dentistry for approximately six years, Dr. DiZinno sold his dental practice to follow his childhood dream and entered onto duty with the FBI, trained as an FBI Special Agent and was assigned to the FBI Washington Field Office where he investigated cases mainly dealing with bank robberies, kidnapings and extortions. After three years as a field agent, Dr. DiZinno was assigned to the FBI Laboratory and qualified as a Forensic Examiner where he examined forensic evidence and testified to the results of his examinations. He then spent approximately four years participating in forensic mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) research and validation. Dr. DiZinno was then selected as the Unit Chief of DNA Analysis Unit II where forensic mtDNA examinations are performed. After serving as the Unit Chief of DNA Unit II, Dr. DiZinno was selected as the Section Chief of the Scientific Analysis Section, the Deputy Assistant Director and finally as the FBI Assistant Director in charge of the entire FBI Laboratory. Dr. DiZinno led all FBI Laboratory case working, forensic response and administrative personnel for approximately two years before retiring from the FBI on February 1, 2008. Dr. DiZinno now serves as a faculty member at GMU where he teaches undergraduate and graduate level forensic science courses. Dr. DiZinno brings a wealth of hands-on, real world forensic experience to his students and continues to be involved with ongoing forensic research efforts as the GMU Forensic Program Graduate Research Coordinator.