---
title: 'Episode 187: Dr Denise Gemmellaro - Exploring Forensic Entomology: Training, Research, and Global Outreach'
type: 'episode'
url: 'https://doc.social/episodes/episode-187-dr-denise-gemmellaro-exploring-forensic-entomology-training-research-and-global-outreach'
show: 'People of Pathology Podcast'
show_url: 'https://doc.social/podcasts/people-of-pathology-podcast'
published: '2024-08-19'
audio: 'https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/gx4widsp485uawqp/Dr_Denise_Gemmellaroaisz2.mp3'
---

# Episode 187: Dr Denise Gemmellaro - Exploring Forensic Entomology: Training, Research, and Global Outreach

Dr Denise Gemmellaro is a forensic entomologist, and my guest today. We discuss how she initially pursued medical school but found it was not for her. She found forensic entomology to be a complete and engaging field that allowed her to wor…

## Summary

Dr Denise Gemmellaro is a forensic entomologist, and my guest today.

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We discuss how she initially pursued medical school but found it was not for her.

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She found forensic entomology to be a complete and engaging field that allowed her to work on real cases and teach.

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Dr. Gemmellaro emphasized the importance of students realizing they can change their career path and explore different avenues.

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Forensic entomology involves the study of insects and arthropods in medico-legal investigations, providing valuable information on the circumstances of death and post-mortem events.

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In entomotoxicology, substances found in maggots can indicate what was present in the body prior to death, aiding in toxicology analysis.

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Dr. Gemmellaro has conducted training for law enforcement in forensic entomology, emphasizing the importance of proper evidence collection and handling.

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She has also been involved in international projects in Africa and Central America to introduce forensic science and inspire local professionals in the field.

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Dr. Gemmellaro encourages those interested in forensic entomology to explore entomology programs and resources, as well as consider related fields like law enforcement or lab technician roles.

Links for this episode:

[Health Podcast Network](https://healthpodcastnetwork.com/)

[ LabVine Learning](http://bit.ly/labvine)

[Dress A Med scrubs](https://dressamed.com/?rfsn=5044297.cb03eb&utm_source=refersion&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=5044297.cb03eb)

[Digital Pathology Club](https://digitalpathology.club/digital-pathology-beginners-guide-notification?am_id=dennis985)

Dr Denise Gemmellaro [email](mailto:denise.gemmellaro@gmail.com)

[American Board of Forensic Entomology](https://forensicentomologist.org)

[The ESA (Entomological Society of America)](https://entsoc.org)

ESA pages listing the entomology programs in the US:

[here](https://www.entsoc.org/publications/undergraduate-programs)

and [here](https://www.entsoc.org/resources/education/colleges)

People of Pathology Podcast:

[Twitter](https://twitter.com/peopleofpath)

[Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/peopleofpath/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_rid=87f3e0df-5864-418e-a5b3-5fdd260ba05b)