A Springfield-based forensic scientist has been recognized for her work with the Illinois State Police.
Kimberly Kunkler of Riverton works in the "trace" section of the Illinois State Police Forensic Science Laboratory in Springfield.
She was named Illinois State Police Forensic Scientist of the Year at the agency's annual awards ceremony last month.
Kunkler's supervisor says he nominated her for the award because she produces exceptional work and is an outstanding representative of the lab.
Between 300 and 350 forensic scientists work for the State Police across Illinois.
Kunkler received a doctorate in chemistry from Northwestern University. She initially wanted to be a chemistry teacher, but changed her career goals after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. She started working with the Illinois State Police in June 2002.
