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.
On this page, find links to articles, awards, events, publications, and multimedia related to forensic sciences.
TOF/QTOF Mass Spec for Identification, Screening & Confirmation in Forensic Toxicology & Chemistry, Part I
In this specialized workshop intended for forensic science service providers (FSSPs), we explore the increasing adoption of Time-of-Flight and Quadrupole Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (TOF/QTOF-MS) technologies within forensic laboratories. The session provides an in-depth examination of various critical stages, encompassing planning, validation methodologies, analytical techniques, data review processes, and report generation. Subject matter experts disseminate knowledge and share first-hand experiences related to the utilization of TOF/QTOF-MS technology.
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Just Collecting More Evidence from Cartridge Cases
In episode two of our Case Studies season, Just Science sat down with crime scene technician Brian Turner and Detective Roberto Caceres from the Broward County Sheriff's Office to discuss a new methodology for processing fired cartridge cases. When a cartridge case is recovered from a crime scene, investigators must typically decide whether to swab it for DNA or process it for latent prints.
Just Investigating a No-Body Homicide in Canada
In episode one of our Case Studies season, Just Science sat down with Ian Oxton, Forensic Identification Specialist for the Calgary Police Service to discuss a triple homicide case involving the longest lasting Amber Alert in Alberta Canada's history. Operation Amber started as a race against the clock for a missing child, and his grandparents then quickly evolved into a massive search effort on a 40-acre property.
Molecular Panels and Sampling Strategies
This webinar is part of the Molecular Autopsy Implementation Panel, hosted by the NIJ Forensic Technology Center of Excellence on September 26, 2023.
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Molecular Autopsy Implementation Discussion Panel
This discussion is part of the Molecular Autopsy Implementation Panel, hosted by the NIJ Forensic Technology Center of Excellence on September 26, 2023.
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How Molecular Panels Affect the Living
This presentation is part of the Molecular Autopsy Implementation Panel, hosted by the NIJ Forensic Technology Center of Excellence on September 26, 2023.
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A Forensic Pathologist's Approach to Molecular Autopsy
This presentation is part of the Molecular Autopsy Implementation Panel, hosted by the NIJ Forensic Technology Center of Excellence on September 26, 2023.
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Bringing Molecular Autopsies to Your Morgue
This presentation is part of the Molecular Autopsy Implementation Panel, hosted by the NIJ Forensic Technology Center of Excellence on September 26, 2023.
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Postmortem Genetic Test Results and How to Communicate Them
This presentation is part of the Molecular Autopsy Implementation Panel, hosted by the NIJ Forensic Technology Center of Excellence on September 26, 2023.
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Can Science Enhance Equity? Findings and Implications From a Study To Detect Bruising on Victims with Dark Skin Pigmentation
This plenary panel from the 2023 NIJ Research Conference features fascinating research on a methodology to improve the detection and documentation of bruises on victims of violence who have dark skin pigmentation. This study highlights the intersection between science, justice, and racial equity, featuring practitioner and victims’ advocacy perspectives. The discussion describes the research and its findings and explore strategies to ensure that this particular evidence-based methodology can be widely implemented by nurse practitioners in the field.
Participants:
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Research Forensic Library
We invite you to also search the Research Forensic Library, a curated collection of publicly-accessible material relating to every discipline of the forensic sciences.
