The Forensic Science Research and Training Center is a section of the FBI Laboratory Division which supports the FBI Training Division by providing forensic training to FBI and DEA New Agents, the National Academy, FBI in-service students, and personnel from federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, including crime laboratories. Additionally, it supports the FBI Laboratory with forensic science research and quality assurance functions.

Forensic science training is provided to FBI and DEA New Agent classes in a variety of technical areas. Forensic science courses are offered to the FBI National Academy and accredited through the University of Virginia's Division of Continuing Education. The FBI in-service training program offers forensic science courses for FBI Special Agents and FBI Laboratory examiners and technicians. The forensic science training program also includes other federal agencies as well as state and local agencies, providing crime laboratory personnel with hands-on training to enhance their basic skills and procedures, as well as introducing them to new or more advanced techniques used in the examination of physical evidence. All courses offered by the Forensic Science Research and Training Center are on a cost-free basis to duly-constituted law enforcement agencies and crime laboratories.

Forensic science research is conducted to develop new and improved methods for the analysis of forensic evidence. The program concentrates in the areas of biochemistry, genetics, chemistry, and physics. The staff collaborates with researchers from academia, private industry, and other government laboratories, as well as state and local forensic laboratories. For example, one of the most notable ongoing research initiatives is DNA analysis technology. This initiative includes research and development of valid and reliable DNA typing methods, training of state, local, and foreign crime laboratory personnel, providing expert testimony in DNA admissibility hearings, development of a system for the comparison of DNA profiles among American crime laboratories, and hosting symposia for the exchange of scientific data on DNA. Research projects include the use of personnel in the Visiting Science Program, which was established to enable qualified scientists from outside the FBI to participate in original research projects. Additionally, the Honors Intern Program provides a challenging working experience for college students working toward a science degree and aims to attract qualified students into forensic science professions.

The quality assurance efforts promote and monitor proper laboratory practices that apply primarily to forensic examination techniques. Through the use of proficiency tests, protocol review, and annual audits, overall laboratory activities can be defined and standardized, and laboratory practices improved. Occupational safety and health programs for the Laboratory Division are also monitored.