Sessional lecturer-FSC360H5F - Evidence, Law and Forensic Science in Canada

University of Toronto • Mississauga, ON

1d • Onsite

About The Position

This course will explore the position of forensic science within the law in Canada. The focus will be on the evolution of the acceptance of forensic science in Canadian criminal law and its current position within the legal system. Topics include: Evidence law, expert evidence law, defining the expert, differing standards of legal acceptance for police sciences and others. Important historical documents and legal advancements will be surveyed. The session will run from September 1, 2026, to December 31, 2026, with lectures scheduled on Thursdays from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM in-person. There are no practicals or tutorials. The estimated course enrollment is 150 students, with an estimated TA support of 225 hours.

Requirements

• Ph.D. (completed or ABD with active student status at issuing institution) in Law or closely related topic, or completed law degree (LLB/JD or LLM) with practice experience in criminal law, including with respect to trial and/or appellate work involving evidence law, expert witness evidence and the forensic sciences.
• If co-teaching, both instructors must meet the minimum qualifications.

Nice To Haves

• Trial experience with cases involving expert witness evidence and the role that expert witnesses/the forensic sciences play in the criminal justice system.
• Knowledge and experience specific to the criminal justice system in Ontario (Ontario Court of Justice and Superior Court of Justice) would be an asset.
• Demonstrated commitment to education within the legal and/or expert witness communities would be an asset.
• Previous experience in teaching/education
• Mastery of subject area
• Forensic science and/or law background
• Professional experience
• Experience with management and delivery of courses using University of Toronto or similar systems (e.g., Quercus, Canvas-based technologies, Zoom, etc.) is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Preparation and delivery of course material
• Preparation and delivery of assignments, tests and/or exams
• Supervision of teaching assistants (includes providing instruction on how to mark, as well as holding office hours)
• Marking of students’ work (during the term and beyond if an extension of time is granted by the university officials)
• Submission of grades to university officials
• Holding regular office hours

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree