Intern helps solve crimes

     A murder has been committed on the mega-hit television series, “CSI,” and forensic pathologist, Catherine Willows, gingerly collects evidence from the victim’s body. Through the magic of television, the case is solved within an hour and all of the loose ends neatly connected. But that isn’t real life as Campbell University junior, Paige Knickerbocker, learned only too well this summer.
     Knickerbocker, who interned at the State Bureau of Investigation Molecular Genetics Lab, discovered that forensics investigation can be painstakingly tedious as she piped blood samples onto thousands of “stain” cards for analysis and ensured that the vital information of every convicted felon in the state of North Carolina was correct. She also packaged the cards for storage because they are important pieces of evidence.
     “The blood samples receive DNA analysis and can be matched with random samples from suspects,” said Knickerbocker, who is a biology/chemistry major. “DNA analysis is very conclusive. I was in the room in Cabarrus County when they actually served a warrant on someone’s DNA.” 
     Knickerbocker helped to create a DNA data base that can be used to connect criminals with their crimes. “There are so many things that go on in a DNA lab that people aren’t aware of,” said Knickerbocker. “Some of them may seem tedious, but I think forensics is one of those jobs where you can really make a difference.”
     Knickerbocker also worked with DNA profiling, identifying the hereditary blueprint given to individuals by their parents. Examination of DNA from individuals, other than identical twins, has shown that variations exist and that a specific DNA pattern or profile can be associated with a person. These DNA profiles have revolutionized criminal investigations and have become powerful tools in the identification of criminals.
     “It was exciting to be working on DNA profiles,” Knickerbocker said. “It’s one of the most important sciences in criminal investigation. I really learned a lot this summer.”
Although she has yet to make a final decision, Knickerbocker, who plans to become a physician, said she might want to go into the field of forensics. Since her late father was a CPA whose clients were physicians and her mother is a nurse, Knickerbocker comes by that inclination naturally.
     “Becoming a doctor has always been a dream of mine ever since I was a little girl,” Knickerbocker said. “I like forensics because it is one of those fields in which you’re working with the dead, but you’re helping the living.”
     At Campbell, Knickerbocker is a member of several honor societies, including Epsilon Pi Eta, Phi Eta Sigma and Phi Kappa Phi (honorary vice president). Her name has appeared on the Presidents List each semester and she is a Presidential Scholar. A resident of Raleigh, she is the daughter of Jettie E. Knickerbocker and the late Hugh Earl Knickerbocker. She has one sister, Holly.


Photo Copy: Campbell University junior, Paige Knickerbocker, works in a biology lab at the university. Knickerbocker completed an internship at the State Bureau of Investigation Molecular Genetics Laboratory this summer.