Good Laboratory Practices for Forensic Chemistry

Thomas Catalano

Sep 2014 · Springer

About this ebook

Good Laboratory Practices for Forensic Chemistry acknowledges the limitations that often challenge the validity of data and resultant conclusions. Eight chapters examine current practices in analytical chemistry as well as business practices, guidelines and regulations in the pharmaceutical industry to offer improvements to current practices in forensic chemistry. It discusses topics ranging from good manufacturing practices (GMP), good laboratory practices (GLP), the International Conference on Harmonisation (ICH), quality assurance (QA), and quality risk management (QRM), among others. This book is a guide for scientists, professors, and students interested in expanding their knowledge of forensic chemistry.

About the author

Dr. Thomas Catalano obtained his Ph.D. in pharmaceutical sciences at St. John’s University in Queens, New York. He started his forensic career as a member of the New York City Police Department (NYPD) Crime Laboratory doing testing in various areas including drugs, gunshot residue, arson investigation, blood alcohol determination, glass analysis, soil comparison, inks and dyes analysis, paint chip analysis and explosive residue. Dr. Catalano published seven articles on various subjects while a member of the NYPD Crime Laboratory. After his time at the NYPD Crime Laboratory, he moved on to a career within the pharmaceutical industry, where he has held various positions—including the Global Sr. Director of Analytical R&D—with major pharmaceutical companies such as G.D. Searle, Pharmacia, Pfizer, and Theravance, giving him vast experience in providing analytical support to dosage forms, drug substances and biologicals. Dr. Catalano has made significant contributions to the development and registration of many products that are currently on the market. He is not only an expert in analytical chemistry but also in the FDA Guidances, guidelines, and work processes that are applicable to forensic chemistry. Currently, Dr. Catalano is president of PharmChem Analytical Consultants LLC., a consulting company that provides service to the pharmaceutical industry, food industry, and forensic chemistry.