Digital Criminology meets DNA | Stefano Mazzilli Daechsel

Visiting postdoctoral researcher Stefano Mazzilli Daechsel of the University of Oslo will present "Digital Criminology meets DNA" to CrimSL graduate students and faculty.

This event is invitation-only for CrimSL graduate students and faculty. If you would like an invitation, please contact Jihyun Kwon, postdoctoral fellow, at ji.kwon@mail.utoronto.ca by April 21. 

Discussant: Jamie Duncan, CrimSL PhD candidate

Moderator: Kelly Hannah-Moffat, CrimSL Professor

Abstract

This presentation provides an overview of my postdoctoral research as part of the ERC-funded project ‘Digital DNA.’ The project is interested in the changing dynamics between digital technologies, DNA and criminology, with an eye to expanding the nascent subfield of digital criminology. To date, my contribution has been a critical examination of emergent biotechnologies that use DNA as a material substrate for computation, biosensing and data storage. More recently, I have started a genealogical study of genetic research in biosocial criminology in the second half of the twentieth century. The aim of this study is to identify hinge points in the genetic discourses related to crime. Finally, I conclude with a discussion of the future of digital criminology as an important contribution to the criminological field in times of unprecedented access to genetic information and big data systems.

About Stefano Mazzilli Daechsel

Stefano Mazzilli Daechsel is a postdoctoral research fellow at the Institute for Criminology and Sociology of Law at the University of Oslo. As part of the ERC-funded project ‘Digital DNA’ (PI Prof Mareile Kaufmann), Stefano’s research critically examines the intersections of biotechnology, genetics research, and criminology. He is currently working on a genealogical study of genetic research in biosocial criminology in the latter half of the twentieth century. In 2019, Stefano earned a joint doctorate in cultural and global criminology from the University of Kent and the University of Hamburg. His work frequently ventures beyond the conventional boundaries of criminology into the fields of science and technology studies and the philosophy of technology.

Accessibility

Please note that our Centre Lounge and CG 265 seminar room are on the second floor of the Canadiana Gallery building, with stair access only as there is no elevator. If you have any access needs or if there are any ways we can support your participation in this session, please email crimsl.communications@utoronto.ca and we will be glad to work with you to make the appropriate arrangements.

Notice of photography and videography

Photography, audio and video recording may occur throughout this event. Therefore, by attending, you hereby authorize the University of Toronto to take your photograph, video and/or record your voice and grant the university all rights to these sounds, still or moving images in any medium for educational, promotional, marketing, advertising or other such purposes that support the mission of the university. If you do not consent to this, please speak with a university representative upon your arrival.