Christopher Moner is originally from Cleveland, Ohio, USA, and began attending WVU in the fall of 2020 to begin his undergraduate education, having been interested in forensic science and criminal justice. In spring of 2024, he successfully graduated with his Bachelor of Science in Forensic and Investigative Science at WVU (Examiner Emphasis). Throughout his undergraduate studies, Christopher had the opportunity to engage in research under Dr. Morris from 2023-2024. His research focus was using confocal microscopy in conjunction with the National Institute of Standards and Technology's (NIST) Congruent Matching Cells (CMC) algorithm as a triage technique for a large volume cartridge case examinations, specifically concerning breechface impressions.
Christopher continued his educational endeavors by pursuing a Masters of Science in Forensic and Investigative Science at WVU in the fall of 2024. His masters research expands upon his understanding of CMC from his undergraduate studies by utilizing the algorithm for both centerfire and rimfire cartridge case examinations. Christopher's research objectives are to firstly assess CMC's efficacy on rimfire cartridge case breechface impressions, and secondly optimizing CMC analysis parameters for centerfire and potentially rimfire cartridge cases.
While pursuing his masters, Christopher is a Graduate Teaching Assistant for the Department of Forensic and Investigative Science here at WVU. He has aided in the instruction of courses including but not limited to Crime Scene Investigation, Shooting Incident Reconstruction, and Forensic Photography.
Why did you choose WVU?
I chose to attend WVU because for undergraduate and graduate school because the Forensic and Investigative Science program is one of, if not the best, in the country.
Why did you choose to work with Dr. Morris?
My forensic discipline of interest is firearms examination. This comes from an interest in firearms prior to joining the research group, as well as Dr. Morris' Introduction to Firearms Examination course I took during my undergraduate studies. One of Dr. Morris' research focuses is in firearms examination.
What is one thing you have learned while being in this research group?
It is hard to pick one thing that I have learned, because there are a lot of lessons he has taught me. I think the most important lesson is his system on determining if an idea (for research, general projects, or in life) is possible. Focusing on the feasibility, timeframe, costs, and "ROOP" (reliance on other people) has helped me put things into order with my research project and outside of school life in general.
When do you want to do when you graduate?
After I graduate, I would like to gain experience in the field of forensic science. Eventually, I would like to obtain a Ph.D., but I believe that becoming experienced in field work will help inform me where gaps are in the research that can aid in the field of forensic science. Generally, I am looking for forensic examiner positions (e.g., firearms examiner, latent print examiner), CSI positions, and state/federal law enforcement positions. I am not particularly focused on getting a job in one specific area. I feel as having a wide range of experience is useful for what I ultimately want to do, that is, being a university professor teaching forensic science.
Outside of the lab, what do you like to do to relax and unwind?
Outside of academics, I like to unwind by working out, doing jiu-jitsu, playing guitar, or playing video games.