NamUs Update
A new contract to manage the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) was awarded on March 31, 2021. Learn more.
Forensic science is the application of sciences such as physics, chemistry, biology, computer science and engineering to matters of law.
NIJ’s forensic science research and development program focuses on basic and applied scientific research with the intent to:
- Direct the findings of basic scientific research in broader scientific fields applicable to forensic science.
- Apply forensic science research to the development of highly discriminating, accurate, reliable, cost-effective, rapid methods for the identification, analysis and interpretation of physical evidence.
- Expand the scientific basis of forensic methods.
- Produce useful materials, devices, systems or methods that have the potential for forensic application.
- Increase the body of knowledge to guide and inform forensic science policy and practice.
Articles
- Drug-Impaired Driving: NIJ-Sponsored Panel Points to Priority Needs for Addressing Complex Enforcement Challenges
- New Method for Measuring Human Decomposition Could Significantly Impact Medicolegal Death Investigations
- Field Sobriety Tests and THC Levels Unreliable Indicators of Marijuana Intoxication
Awards
Listen to Just Science Podcast!
NIJ's Forensic Science Technology Center of Excellence presents Just Science, a podcast for forensic science professionals.
Just Science Podcast on Forensic Lab Needs
Just Science interviews Dr. Jonathan McGrath, Senior Policy Analyst in the Office of Investigative and Forensic Sciences at the National Institute of Justice, about the recently published NIJ Needs Assessment of Forensic Laboratories and Medical Examiner, Coroner Offices Report to Congress.
