NJIT Forensic Scientist Sara Zapico Receives National Educator Recognition
Sara Zapico of NJIT has been recognized for her contributions to forensic science education, highlighting the role of academic research and teaching in advancing the field.
New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) forensic scientist Sara C. Zapico has been recognized as the 2026 National Higher Education Forensic Science Educator of the Year, an award highlighting the role of practical scientific training in preparing future forensic professionals.
NJIT announced the recognition on November 6, 2026. The award was established by the Consortium of Forensic Science Organizations (CFSO), which represents forensic science professional groups across the United States. Zapico is the first recipient of the consortium’s higher-education educator award, introduced in 2026.
The award was presented on September 25 during National Forensic Science Week at NJIT’s Tiernan Hall, which houses the university’s forensic science laboratories. A further recognition came on November 6, when Zapico received a certificate from the office of U.S. Representative LaMonica McIver in Newark.
According to NJIT and CFSO, the award recognizes educators for their dedication, innovation, and leadership in forensic science education. Zapico’s teaching approach emphasizes active, practical learning: students work with evidence, test hypotheses, interpret results, and communicate scientific conclusions rather than relying exclusively on classroom instruction.
Her professional background spans forensic anthropology and molecular research. Before joining NJIT, Zapico directed a forensic science master’s program at Florida International University and conducted postdoctoral research at the Smithsonian Institution, where she is also a research associate. She has worked with the forensic unit of the International Committee of the Red Cross in Geneva.
Her research interests include forensic epigenetics, particularly the use of DNA methylation to estimate age. She has also participated in research examining molecular effects associated with smoking, vaping, and exercise among young adults.
The recognition underscores the importance of evidence-based education in forensic science. Students must learn not only how to apply analytical methods, but also how to evaluate uncertainty and communicate defensible interpretations.
Although an educator award does not itself establish the validity of a forensic method, practical instruction that emphasises hypothesis testing and transparent interpretation can help prepare future practitioners for the scientific and legal responsibilities of forensic work.