My name is Melissa Oberg and I am a Forensic Scientist with the Indiana State Police Laboratory where I have been in the Forensic Firearms Identification Unit since 2006.

Academic Background

Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with a Minor in Criminal Justice, Saint Joseph’s College of Rensselaer, Indiana, 2005

Master of Science in Data Analytics, University of Indianapolis, graduation date May 2023

Professional Background

After graduating Saint Joseph’s College, I began teaching Chemistry and Physics at Marquette High School in Michigan City, Indiana in the fall of 2005. After the completion of this semester, I was hired by the Indiana State Police as a Forensic Scientist in the Drug Identification Unit and maintained that position for under a year until transferring into the Firearms Identification Unit where I have been for the past sixteen years.

Experience in R

My first experience with R happened in 2018, when my colleagues and I authored a research paper for the Association of Firearm and Toolmark Examiners (AFTE). I was approached by a statistician from Iowa State University to provide further statistical information regarding our research project. I collaborated with the statistician to calculate confidence intervals and upper confidence limits for our results using R. This experience is what first peaked my interest in the data analytics world and is what lead me to pursue a degree in data analytics. My current experience with R is through DataCamp, LinkedIn Learning, and courses Data Preparation and Analytics Solutions through the University of Indianapolis.

Experience with Other Analytic Software I have used excel over the years for work and have been exposed to project-based curriculum through the University of Indianapolis with the following programs:

Through my job I have experience working with a 3-D database that can be explored in the following link IBIS. This database uses algorithms to reveal potential links to items entered into it. I also have experience with and provide training to laboratory personel on how to use a Laboratory Information Management System called LIMS. This system tracks data entered into it through crystal reports.