Main - Donnell R Christian, Jr.

Donnell R Christian, Jr.

Forensic Chemist / Examiner

International Laboratory Development Expert

Author

About Me

Author, Forensic Chemistry Expert

Donnell R. Christian Jr. is a well-known figure in the field of forensic science, particularly recognized for his expertise in the clandestine manufacture of drugs and explosives. Here’s a summary of his professional journey:

Forensic Career: Christian began his career after obtaining a BS in Chemistry and Police Administration from Northern Arizona University. He worked for 15 years as a criminalist with the Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZ DPS) Crime Laboratory, where he specialized in drug and explosive manufacturing investigations.
International Impact: He then moved to the U.S. Department of Justice’s International Criminal Investigative Training Assistance Program (ICITAP) as the Forensic Science Development Coordinator. His role involved managing, implementing, and providing training for forensic programs in developing democracies and post-conflict nations, affecting forensic science development in over 20 countries.
Private Sector and Education: Christian worked as the Director of International Training for Professional Business Solutions, Inc. (PBSI). He continued his education, earning an MS in Criminal Justice from American Military University and pursuing a Ph.D. in Police Science at the University of South Africa.
Current Position: He is currently employed as a senior explosives chemist at the Defense Forensic Science Center’s Forensic Exploitation Directorate, where he applies his knowledge to battlefield forensic chemistry and mentors upcoming forensic scientists.
Publications: Christian has authored several influential books on forensic chemistry, including “Forensic Investigation of Clandestine Laboratories,” “Field Guide to Clandestine Laboratory Identification and Investigation,” and “Clandestine Lab Investigation Pocket Guide.” He has also contributed chapters to textbooks and published numerous articles on forensic science topics.
Personal Background: Born in Arizona, Christian is married and has been involved in community service, including ordination as a minister.

Testimonials

I have known Donn for about 20 years. From the time he spent as a forensic scientist/crime scene responder to his current position. Donn Is an excellent resource to anyone that uses him and is well reknowned for his work in the field of clandestine drug manufacture. His has written several books on this subject but is extremely knowledgable in all areas of forensic science.

He is an excellent trainer and a vast source of information. Donn is a valuable resource to the entire forensic community.

James (Jaime) Crippin

Q-Ranch, LLC

Donnell has successfully created a system for development of new or upcoming forensic laboratories, that allows his firm to monitor and assess the level of success for each developed component. I have worked with many training and development firms in the past and PBSI is among the best.

Larry Stewart

President, Global Forensic Services, LLC

I worked with Donnell Christian for several years, attempting to develop the forensic laboratory capabilities of the government of Turkmenistan. He effectively managed & coordinated the travel, training and meetings to effectively accomplish our mission. In spite of difficulties he was able to move forward to execute plan of action. I met with him at the annual meetings of the American Academy of Forensic Science since he left the Departmrnt of Justice and would welcome an opportunity to work with him again.

Bob Bianchi

President, Prescription Drug Research Center

Resume

Over 25 years of experience

Professional Experience Download Link For Donnell R Christian Jr CV

Forensic Advisor and Mentor (6/2024-Present) – Department of Justice -ICITAP

Chemist / Forensic Examiner (6/2018 – 6/2024) Department of Defense Forensic Exploitation Directorate (FXD)

Mandate: Provide forensic chemistry examinations and support of collected exploitable material (CEM) in support of anti-terrorism programs.

Significant Accomplishments:

Deployed to FXD laboratories in Kuwait and Djibouti as the examiner responsible for all forensic chemistry examinations in that associated area of responsibility.
Developed an ignitable liquid (IGL) data analysis method and classification matrix based on the criteria listed in ASTM-E1618-14 Test Method for Ignitable Liquid Residues by GCMS and OSAC 2022-S-0005 Standard Test Method for Interpretation of Gas Chromatography-EI Mass Spectrometry for the Analysis of Ignitable Liquid Classes in Fire Debris. The method eliminated the need for establish and maintain a comprehensive library of known GC and GCMS data for the classification of ignitable liquids.
Assisted in the development of a data analysis method and classification matrix for petroleum products with boiling ranges above the ignitable liquid range (heavy hydrocarbons, HC). The systems were based upon the previously developed ignitable liquid matrix. The system established the data requirements and classification terminology for lubricating oil, petrolatum, and paraffin wax. These classifications were universally accepted terms, allowed for the objective classifications of petroleum products commonly encountered in homemade explosive (HME) used in terrorist activity.
Assisted in the development of a GCMS method for petroleum product classification that spanned the range of C₇ to C₄₅. The method allows the examiner to examine and classify IGL and HC petroleum products in a single analysis.
Developed and implemented a comprehensive training program to train and authorize examiners in the use of the petroleum product classification system. The training program met the standards of the Federal Law Enforcement Training Accreditation (FLETA).
The QA/QC, although completely necessary, is so time-consuming. No wonder the crime lab

Director: International Forensic Training and Quality Assurance (3/2005 – 6/2018)- PBSI

Mandate: Establish sustainable forensic science and rule of law programs in developing democracies.

Significant Accomplishments:

Develop an enhanced version of the Forensic Laboratory Program Evaluation assessment The assessment tool established a competency baseline from which technical assistance programs were designed and program progress would be based. The assessment tool evaluated: Demographic Data, Criminal Justice Systems, Crime Statistics, Organization, Personnel, Equipment and Supplies, Infrastructure, Forensic Unit Capabilities and Performance, and Quality Assurance Maturity. The assessment tool’s sub-categories include facility construction/renovation status, facility working conditions, property and evidence storage, equipment and instrument functionality and usage, chemical/reagent levels and usage, case statistics, staffing levels, the status of ongoing training, the status of development of policies, procedures and method validation, the status of quality management program and ISO accreditation conformance. The enhanced version was then promulgated by DOS/INL for use in all regional forensic development programs. The assessment tool was used in the following long-term programs: the Republic of Armenia, three (3) iterations; the Republic of Georgia six (6) iterations, and Moldova three (3) iterations. The assessment tool was used as a baseline evaluation in the following countries: Liberia, Algeria, and Iraq two (2) different projects. The resulting reports were used to request funding to address issues and draft task orders to implement recommendations.
Forensic Laboratory Plant Design: Provided the basic laboratory design that was implemented by the Host Country using U.S funds. Eleven (11) design recommendations were implemented. Two concept designs were not Implemented using US assistance:
- Armenia National Bureau of Expertise (2): Building One Complete Renovation, Building Two Complete Renovation.
- Georgia National Forensics Bureau (3): Tower One Complete Renovation, Tower Two DNA Laboratory, Medical Examiners implemented using internal funding:
- Armenia National Bureau of Expertise (1): Firearms Examination Bunker.
- Georgia National Forensics Bureau (3): Firearms Examination Test Fire Collection Center, Regional Evidence Centers, Medical Examiners.
- Moldova (2): Remodel of the Forensic and Judicial Expertise Center of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Remodel of the Forensic Laboratory of the National Anti-Corruption Center.
- Concept Laboratory Designs.
- Ninewa Province Iraq: Modular Temporary Laboratory.
- Monrovia, Liberia: Medical Examiner’s Office including staffing and training recommendations.
Draft FAR-compliant specifications for the laboratory equipment and instruments to facilitate the purchase of the items using the US procurement mechanism.
Recommend staffing levels, draft laboratory staff job descriptions, and develop staff training requirements for eleven (9) forensic laboratory facilities in three countries.
Establish and manage the implementation of Curriculum Development and Technical Assistance Training Programs to improve the delivery of forensic examination services in project countries resulting in the training of hundreds of students.
Recommend language for task orders and funding requests to funding Partners and Clients.
Recruit, evaluate, and approve SMEs and Instructors and manage the design, development, translation, and delivery of the coursework and practical exercises including pre and post-examinations.
Develop and implement a Quality Management Quality Assurance Program leading to ISO 17025 and/or ISO 9001 Accreditation in three countries.
- The Republic of Georgia – Achieved ISO 17025 conformance through the Georgian National Institute of Standards.
- Armenia – The laboratory Achieved ISO 9001 and ISO 17025 conformance through the Armenian National Institute of Standards
- Moldova – At program completion, four laboratories had established the foundations required for conformance to the requirements of ISO/IEC 17025. The Forensic and Judicial Expertise Center within the Ministry of Internal Affairs subsequently attained ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation through the Moldova accreditation body.
Research and develop guidelines for the use of forensic evidence in criminal and civil proceedings included in the Moldova Judicial Expert Legislation (Lege nr. 1086, 23-06-2000).
Recognized Subject Matter Forensic Expert by the US Embassy, Department of State, USAID, Department of Justice, Department of Defense, United Nations, host country Ministry Level personnel, and forensic industry organizations concerning how forensic investigative techniques are a key component of democratic policing based upon the rule of law.

Forensic Science Development Coordinator 09/1998 to 03/2005 – Department of Justice International Criminal Investigative Training Assistance Program (ICITAP)

…Interim Section Chief (1999)

…Contract Forensic Advisor: 03/1998 to 09/1998

Mandate: Manage the implementation of international forensic science and rule of law programs in developing democracies.

Provide program management leadership for the design and delivery of 20+ forensic laboratory development programs in post-conflict developing democracies (Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Georgia, Haiti, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, South Africa, Senegal, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan) with program budgets ranging from $300K to $35 Million. Implemented Project Management Institute (PMI) techniques within the programs resulting in improved planning, control, and reporting.
Prepare statements of work defining independent- contractors’ job-specific performance objectives and requirements. Recruit the independent-contractors to provide the services. Manage the independent contractor’s performance and at task completion, coordinate the evaluation of task order success with the Host Country and U.S. Embassy leadership teams.
Provide risk and issue analysis, recommendations, and advice to stakeholders from the U.S. Embassy, Department of State, Department of Justice, and Ministry-level personnel of the Host Country concerning the implementation of internationally accepted forensic investigative techniques.

Significant Accomplishments:

Designed, implemented, and managed the Program Delivery Financial Management Database, used by the Organization to identify potential cost overruns in Central Asia projects. The results of the evaluation are used to compare the results of previous program evaluations that have been conducted using the same evaluation tool as well as guide planning, support, and oversight of program activities. The report is presented as part of the program summary report to the Client.
Designed, then implemented the standardized Forensic Laboratory Program Evaluation Assessment System used to establish program needs, establish program baselines and measure progress throughout a program’s life cycle.

President (1997-1998) CLR Consulting

Provided ignitable liquid residue analysis to arson investigators working for the insurance industry.
Manufactured the first low explosive proficiency test marketed internationally. There were twenty-five participants including the ATF and state and local organizations. There were 3 international participants.

Criminalist IV – Sr. Technical Expert Clandestine Labs (3/1983 – 9/1998) Arizona Department of Public Safety

Peer Group Chair/Technical Leader for Controlled Substances and Arson/Explosives tasked with the investigation of clandestine manufacture of contraband drugs and explosives, and fires of suspicious origin (arson).
Develop analytical methods and produce analytical and training manuals concerning: forensic clandestine drug lab investigation, controlled substance analysis, fire debris analysis, and explosive residue analysis.
Train laboratory personnel and investigators in the areas of clandestine lab investigation, controlled substance analysis, fire debris analysis, explosive residue analysis, and crime scene processing.
Provide technical assistance during crime scene processing of clandestine lab, arson, and bombing incidents. Examine physical evidence in cases related to clandestine labs, arsons, and bombings. Testify in court as an expert witness in the areas of a clandestine laboratory investigation and the examination of drugs, fire debris, explosives, and trace evidence.
Coordinate resources of local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies for the investigation of clandestine laboratories that manufactured contraband drugs and explosives.
Provide risk and issue analysis, recommendations, and advice to the State Legislature and the Arizona Department of Public Safety associated with forensic techniques used to investigate the clandestine manufacture of contraband drugs and explosives.
Deliver presentations to the State Legislature and the Arizona Department of Public Safety and local law enforcement and forensic practitioners concerning how forensic investigative techniques are a key component of the investigation of clandestine laboratories that manufacture contraband drugs and explosives.
Nationally recognized expert in the area of forensic techniques used to investigate the clandestine manufacture of contraband drugs and explosives.

Education

2014-2017

Doctor of Literature and Philosophy (ABD), Police Science, Post Conflict Studies, (Dissertation not Defended)

UNISA, Pretoria SA

Dissertation: Comparison of United States and United Nations Police Reform Programs in Post-Conflict Nations.

2009-2010

Master of Arts – Criminal Justice

American Military University

Thesis: Using the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act (CLIA) to Improve Forensic Laboratory Quality

1978-1981

Bachelor of Science – Chemistry

Northern Arizona University

Professional Affiliations

Past President – Southwestern Association of Forensic Scientists (SWAFS)
Certified ISO 17025 Lead Auditor / Internal Auditor (ASQ)
Certified Six Sigma Green Belt
POST Certified Police Instructor
Former Fellow, American College of Forensic Examiners
Former Diplomate, American Board of Forensic Examiners
NRA Certified Basic Marksmanship Program Instructor

International Laboratory Development Experience

Program Countries

6/2024-12/2025

Nairobe, Kenya

Role: Forensic Advisor-Mentor

Dept of Justice – ICITAP

Establish a fully functional forensic chemistry section within the Kenyan National Forensics Laboratory.

Program Budget: $
Drafted comprehensive procedure manuals and training materials for the chemistry section and deliver training to section staff. Implement a train the trainer system for program continuity.
At project completion, four examiners were authorized to perform examinations under the scope of the chemical identification after completing written and practical competency tests.

07/2016 – 08/2017

Asunción, Paraguay

Role: Course Developer/Technical Advisor/Instructor

US Embassy, Narcotics Affairs Section

Developed and implemented a clandestine lab investigation training program focused on the illicit manufacture of cocaine that would be used as a model for training in Latin America.

Program Budget: $75,000
Establish lesson plans, course material, and equipment lists that would allow host country personnel to present the program themselves.
Establish the technical foundations for the establishment of clandestine cocaine manufacturing investigative units in Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay.

09/2012 – 12/2014

Chisnau, Republic of Moldova

Role: Forensic Advisor

US Embassy, International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL)

Establish ISO compliant quality assurance programs within the four (4) forensic laboratories that provide examination services to the criminal justice system in the Republic of Moldova

All laboratories conformed to the requirements of ISO/IEC 17025
The Forensic and Judicial Expertise Center attained ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation through the Moldova accreditation body

Provide technical assistance associated with improving the delivery of forensic examination services.

Researched and developed guidelines for the use of forensic evidence in criminal and civil proceedings included in the Moldova Judicial Expert Legislation (Lege nr. 1086, 23-06-2000)
Design assistance for the remodeling of the Forensic and Judicial Expertise Center of the Ministry of Internal Affairs
Design assistance for the remodeling of the forensic laboratory of the National Anti Corruption Center
Wrote technical manuals for the chemistry section of the Forensic and Judicial Expertise Center of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Ministry of Justice laboratories.
Wrote GCMS user manuals for the toxicology section of the Center for Legal Medicine

03/2014 – 09/2014

Algiers, Algeria

Role: Evaluator / Monitor

US Dept. of State, Counter-Terriorism Bureau,

Monitored and evaluated the performance of an 5 year antiterrorism program funded by the US Department of State and implemented by the US Department of Justice. Primary focus was on the implementation of the forensic elements of the program and the programs Quality Management System

Program Budget; $250,000
Identified the successes and challenges associated with the successful implementation of the forensic portion of the program.
Identified numerous issues of nonconcormance to standard quality amangagement principles and provided recommendations for corrective actions for each.

10/1999 – 12/2015

Yerevan, Armenia

Program Manager

US Embassy, International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL)

Establish an independent forensic laboratory, outside the traditional criminal justices system, that conformed to international management and laboratory standards.

Program Budget: $12,000,000
Established the Armenian National Bureau of Expertises, within the National Academy of Sciences to provide forensic examinations services to the Armenian criminal justice system.
Achieved ISO 9001 and ISO 17025 conformance through the Armenian National Institute of Standards

Provide technical assistance associated with improving the delivery of forensic examination services.

Design assistance for the remodeling of the three (3) buildings on the National Bureau of Expertises Campus.
Drafted following administrative manuals Administrative Procedures, Quality Assurance, Health and Safety, Property and Evidence.
Provided laboratory managment mentoring

11/1999 – 12/2012

Tblisi, Georgia

Role: Program Manager

US Embassy, International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL)

Establish an independent forensic laboratory, outside the traditional criminal justices system, that conformed to international management and laboratory standards.

Program Budget: $15,000,000
Established the Georgian Natioanal Forensic Bureau, under control of the Georgian President, to provide forensic examinations services to the Georgian criminal justice system.
Established the only functional forensic DNA laboratory within the Caucus region
Achieved ISO 17025 conformance through the Georgian National Institute of Standards

Provide technical assistance associated with improving the delivery of forensic examination services.

Design assistance for the remodeling of the National Forensic Bureaus main laboratory.
Drafted following administrative manuals Administrative Procedures, Quality Assurance, Health and Safety, Property and Evidence.
Provided laboratory managment mentoring

08/2008 – 12/2008

Monrovia, Liberia

Role: Technical Expert

US Embassy, Narcotics Affairs Section

Monitored and evaluated the performance of the Liberian legal medicine operations and make recomendations to establish medical examiners operation in Monrovia

Program Budget; $50,000
Issued a summary report on the performance of the Liberian legal medicine operations.
Prepared a concept plan to establish medical examiner’s office in Monrovia and provide the associated training in forensic medical techniques.
Prepared design concept plans for modular medical examiners facility that would be used until permanent facilities could be constructed

07/2007 – 11/2007

Bagdad & Mosul, Iraq

Role: Evaluation / Monitor / Technical Expert

US Dept of Defense, Provisional Reconstruction Team

Monitored and evaluated the performance of forensic training programs funded by the US Department of Defence and the United Kingdom and make recomendations to establish forensic laboratories in each of the Iraqi provences

Program Budget; $50,000
Issued a summary report on the performance of the US and UK forensic development programs.
Prepared a concept plan to establish forensic laboratories in each Iraqi province.
Prepared design concept plans for modular forensic laboratory that would be