Following are articles published by the National Institute of Justice
Improving Analysis of “Trace DNA” Evidence
Researchers try a new way to maximize DNA in low-yield situations and reduce costs.
Fast Screening of Gunshot Residue Aims to Modernize Practice
NIJ-funded researchers create unprecedented gunshot residue dataset to develop a quick, dual-detection method for gunshot residue detection.
The National Institute of Justice — At the Forefront of Forensic Science Research
Microbial Communities on Skin Leave Unique Traces at Crime Scenes
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.
Fast and Versatile Forensic Analysis of Ink and Paper with an Easily Operated Laser
The ability of Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) instruments to detect practically the entire periodic table of elements very quickly and without the complexity of other systems makes them an economic choice for forensic analysis.
Expanding the Smokeless Powder Database
Researchers expanded the National Center for Forensic Science Smokeless Powders Database from 100 to more than 800 entries.
Determining Where A Shoe Last Walked by Measuring "Loosely Held Particles"
Criminals track dust particles to and from virtually every crime scene, but particles on a suspect’s shoes are seldom used as evidence linking the accused to the crime. In this NIJ-supported project, researchers assert that investigators can use small par
Identifying Ignitable Liquids in the Aftermath of a Fire
After analyzing how ignitable liquids break down because of weathering and biological degradation in the aftermath of a fire, researchers have provided new data to fire investigators and crime labs.