Daily News

Posted on Sept. 16: Retirees made McMaster what it is today

Faculty members who made important impacts on students; researchers who made outstanding discoveries in the lab; and staff who ensured the University ran smoothly each made McMaster what it is today a research-intensive school known worldwide for its culture of innovation. "Your expertise, skill, enthusiasm and commitment have helped shape McMaster into the outstanding institution it is today," said President Peter George, at a reception for McMaster employees who retired between September 2002 and August 2003. "This is a proud legacy and it is one that each and every one of you has helped to create." Approximately 95 staff and faculty who retired from McMaster were honoured for their years of service. The annual reception was held in the Council Chambers in Gilmour Hall Monday. Pictured from left, George talks with technical staff retiree Bob Bignell, who worked in the School of Geography and Geology for 33 years before retiring last April. Also pictured are Peter Sutherland, dean of science and Jacques Barbier, associate chair of chemistry. (end of story)

Posted on Sept. 15: Using DNA to fight crime in the city

CSI Crime Scene Investigation might be one of the hottest shows on television, but it certainly doesn't rate very highly with John Waye , professor of pathology and molecular medicine . Recognized as an expert in DNA profiling, Waye has served as a consultant or expert witness in hundreds of cases across Canada, including high profile murder cases such as Guy Paul Morin and Allan Legere. Waye will be the first speaker in the new season of the Science in the City lecture series, public lectures sponsored jointly by McMaster and the Hamilton Spectator . "There's not much that's real about shows like CSI. The answers just don't come that quickly or that easily," says Waye, noting that DNA testing in Canada usually takes at least 10 weeks. If the case is high profile, involving a murderer and/or sex offender, than public safety is at risk and the case is given priority.