Robert van Hale

Background

About Robert van Hale

I'm experienced in what might seem an excessively specialised analytical technique, but one that is applicable in every field of science: light stable isotope ratio measurement. Benefiting from the experience of doing a research degree using this method, I can add rudimentary knowledge of stable isotope systematics - that is, how isotopic atoms behave during physical and chemical transformations of their parent matter. I now bring this experience to what is essentially forensic analysis as a technical lead for Isotrace NZ ltd. A few forensic cases of note passed through the early Isotrace laboratory, ranging from a alleged murder-scene baseball bat to milk powder mixed with 1080 (fluoroacetate) toxin. The future is particularly rich with promise for the discovery of new methods as exciting new technology continues to be developed and as the existing technology is refined. It is to be involved in these new developments that is my greatest ambition. To face the real possibility that demand for Isotrace's service increases far beyond current capacity, development of the automated laboratory is proving to naturally be a mother of invention. I am keen to make the acquaintance of automation-literate designers and exponents of Industry 4.0 to present challenging new applications of robotics and data management.