Mary Louisa Willard (May 19, 1898 – April 17, 1993) was internationally recognized for her work in microscopy and forensic science.
She used a variety of techniques, including infrared and ultraviolet spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, gas chromatography and nuclear magnetic resonance.
She was an early proponent of the analysis of hair and blood for the identification of suspected murder weapons.
[7] The institutions she assisted included the Sûreté, Scotland Yard, and Interpol, as well as more local law enforcement.
[8] According to one estimate she was contacted by law enforcement officials on a daily basis, and appeared in court about once a month.
[3][6][10] She sometimes had her students gain real-world experience by helping to test materials for the criminal investigations in which she was involved.