This Just Science Podcast consists of an interview with Jeremy Triplett, the Laboratory Supervisor for the Kentucky State Police Forensic Laboratories, who discusses how leaders must not only have people skills, but must also have the ability to look beyond their own expertise when addressing challenges.
The interview initially focuses on Triplett's background in chemistry and interest in law, which led him into forensic science. His work in Kentucky is described, with a focus on drug analysis. Attention is given to reliable reporting on work results and the field analysis of drugs with portable Raman analysis. The importance of reliable early drug analysis is emphasized. The interview then addresses Triplett's entrance into lab leadership and how it differs from his previous scientific lab work. Training of lab scientists to become lab managers is discussed, A basic management class administered by Triplett is described, with attention to the curriculum subjects, such as communication, employee evaluation, and human resource guidance. Onsite activities are included in the curriculum. Registration information is provided. The class is held once a year.