Gloria Ruiz

Gloria Ruiz is an Assistant Teaching Professor in the Forensic Science Program, specializing in Forensic DNA Analysis. Before joining academia full time, she worked as a Forensic DNA Analyst in Texas, where she testified as an expert witness more than forty times. Her courtroom experience continues to shape her teaching, giving students a practical understanding of chain-of-custody procedures, evidentiary standards, and the precision required when scientific findings have legal consequences.

Gloria currently teaches FRNSC 421W, Forensic Molecular Biology, where she prepares students for the realities of forensic practice. She also has experience teaching chemistry, industrial hygiene, and laboratory safety. She has presented at professional conferences on fostering a culture of safety in teaching laboratories.

She holds two master's degrees, one in Industrial Chemistry from the University of North Texas and one in Environmental Engineering from Southern Methodist University. Her interdisciplinary background has shaped her approach to forensic science education. She connects analytical science, laboratory safety, and real-world casework to help students understand how forensic science is applied beyond the classroom.

In the classroom, Gloria emphasizes both the technical skills required for forensic DNA analysis and the communication and integrity needed to present scientific evidence clearly and credibly. Her goal is to prepare students who can move confidently from the laboratory bench to the witness stand.

Outside the classroom, she enjoys traveling and running.