U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government, Department of Justice.

NIJ Funds Almost $17M in Forensic Science Research and Development

Since 2009, NIJ has funded 577 research projects through its Forensic Science R&D program, making it the global leader in the advancement of forensic science.

NIJ announced almost $17 million in funding to support 36 forensic science research and development projects in fiscal year 2020 under its Research and Development in Forensic Science for Criminal Justice Purposes (Forensic Science R&D) program. Through its R&D grant funding, NIJ continues to advance the speed, accuracy, and reliability of forensic analysis, which ultimately bolsters the administration of justice.

“Since the 2009 NAS report on strengthening forensic science in the U.S.[1], NIJ has renewed its dedication to funding research that finds evidence-based solutions for forensic science professionals,” said Lucas Zarwell, director of NIJ’s Office of Investigative and Forensic Sciences. “Our goal is to continue to run an efficient and comprehensive program which demonstrates long-term impact on the community we serve. There is no doubt in my mind that our ability to listen and learn as well as our relationships with other federal partners allows us to respond quickly and appropriately to find answers to emerging problems in the field.”

Funding Highlights for Fiscal Year 2020

Since 2009, NIJ has invested $255 million in its Forensic Science R&D program – its largest funding initiative – making it the global leader in the advancement of forensic science. The program spans the wide breadth of disciplines from forensic DNA to seized drugs to forensic anthropology and more. The following are a few examples from this year’s awards:

See a full list of awards from the 2020 solicitation Research and Development in Forensic Science for Criminal Justice Purposes.

Date Published: December 14, 0001