Articles Published by NIJ

Summary of a plenary panel from the 2024 NIJ Research Conference

Forensic investigators now have more information on the performance of identification technologies for biological fluids.

Researchers try a new way to maximize DNA in low-yield situations and reduce costs.

NIJ-funded researchers develop a novel blood protein modification assay to detect drug exposure long after the limits of traditional urine or blood tests.

NIJ-funded researchers create precision and accuracy statistics to assess variation in the interpretation of complex DNA mixtures.

Introduction to the National Best Practices for Improving DNA Laboratory Process Efficiency

The forensic power of DNA is clear, but biological evidence also contains RNA, another potential source of information. Because RNA decomposes quickly, its utility is considered limited. Could this decomposition provide information about a sample’s age?

The regions of the genome relied on for identification of individuals pose challenges for analysts because they often produce artifacts during processing. NIJ-funded research has led to a solution that lessens the artifact problem.

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.

Two researchers with a long record of research into the forensic value of very small particle populations examined cell phones, handguns, drug packaging, and ski masks from the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office to determine if such particles can make phys

A review of erroneous convictions that involved forensic science can help identify critical lessons for forensic scientists as they perform testing, interpret results, render conclusions, and testify in court.

NIJ-supported researchers are using oxygen and strontium isotopes to help law enforcement identify victims.