Waterbury, VT – 09/06/11 – Commissioner of Public Safety, Keith Flynn, today announced the appointment of Margaret “Peg” Schwartz, Ph.D. to the position of Laboratory Directory for the Vermont Forensic Laboratory.

In making this appointment Commissioner Flynn said, “Peg brings breadth of experience, education, and scientific knowledge to manage our accredited laboratory and take it into the future.”

Schwartz has been employed by the Vermont Department of Public Safety Forensic Laboratory since 1991. In 1998 she was appointed as the Senior Forensic Chemist providing supervision to the entire chemistry unit of the laboratory. Over her career she developed hands on experience in the analysis of controlled substances, serology, and DNA. She is a member of the National Scientific Working Group on DNA Analysis Methods working to evaluate DNA typing methods.

Division of Criminal Justice Directory Francis Aumand led the search for the new director and said, “Peg’s experience allows for a seamless transition of leadership at the laboratory, thereby providing a continuity of service and continued excellence.”

Schwartz is filling the position that is being vacated by Eric Buel, who is retiring after 32 years with the laboratory. Buel has been the lab directory since 1998 and saw lab accreditation and a new laboratory facility come to fruition during his tenure.

Margaret Schwartz, Ph.D., lives in Middlesex, Vermont.

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