Articles Published by NIJ

Investigators in two NIJ-supported studies have demonstrated that people carry unique microbial communities on their skin, and traces of those communities, left on touched objects, can be linked to the individual.

Scientific inquiry into the process of decomposition has studied a wide range of mammals and developed a fundamental understanding of the stages of decomposition, but forensic scientists should use caution in applying nonhuman data to human bodies.

NIJ is committed to realizing the full potential of artificial intelligence to promote public safety and reduce crime.

A new test for detecting and identifying illegal drugs in oral fluids may be superior to the current test widely used in the field by law enforcement, according to researchers in this study.

Researchers investigate the potential of using isotopes in specific amino acids in human hair as a forensic tool to provide information about an individual's age, sex, race, body mass, genetic disorders, health, and region of origin.

An NIJ-funded study explored injury and forensic evidence in sexual assault cases using data from different types of medical examiners, laboratories, and the police.

Making imaging technologies available to forensic pathologists as common practice — although not without challenges — will help improve medicolegal death investigations in the United States.

3D printing technology both supports and challenges criminal investigation.

As NamUs nears its 10th anniversary, we reflect on the program’s history, successes, and continued commitment to helping families.

Investigating and prosecuting sexual assault crimes is much more complicated than simply performing DNA testing.

Sidebar to the article Sexual Assault Cases: Exploring the Importance of Non-DNA Forensic Evidence

Research-based information that can help inform policy decisions and improve understanding of the criminal justice system.