Forensics, or forensic science, is the application of scientific methods and techniques to the investigation of crimes. The field encompasses various disciplines, such as DNA analysis, toxicology, fingerprinting, ballistics, and digital forensics, each contributing to the identification, collection, preservation, and examination of physical evidence. Forensic experts analyze this evidence to reconstruct events, identify perpetrators, and support legal proceedings. Modern forensics has grown to include psychological profiling, facial reconstruction, and advanced chemical testing, significantly enhancing the accuracy and scope of criminal investigations. The use of forensics has become crucial in solving crimes that might otherwise have remained mysteries, providing not only tools for conviction but also for exoneration, thereby playing a vital role in ensuring justice is served.
New analysis has implications for other forensic examinations that rely on large databases and algorithms for comparisons. New research highlights the importance of careful application…
Research reveals a consistent microbial network involved in animal decomposition, promising advancements in forensic science and beyond, with implications for accurately estimating time of death…
Counterfeit detector pens use a starch-iodine reaction to identify fake bills. But could you fool them with chemistry? In today’s episode, we dive into the…
Columbia engineers have built a new AI that shatters a long-held belief in forensics–that fingerprints from different fingers of the same person are unique. It…
A new study in forensic science reveals that the “tails” of bloodstains offer crucial information about the blood drop’s origin, enhancing crime scene analysis and…
Nearly 80 years after a USAAF B-25 bomber crashed in Sicily during WWII, forensic experts identified the remains of co-pilot 2nd Lt Gilbert Haldeen Myers….
Analysis of scent compounds from the palm can predict a person’s sex with more than 96% accuracy. A study has revealed that the scent compounds…
University of Florida researchers found high-quality human DNA in nearly all environments, suggesting potential applications in fields like medicine, archaeology, and criminal forensics. However, this…
Scientists in South African and the UK have found the smoking gun in forensic lightning pathology that could help save lives threatened by the increase…
During World War II, Nazi Germany and the U.S. were racing to develop nuclear technology. Before Germany could succeed, Allied forces disrupted the program and confiscated…
Scientists have taken the first steps in developing a new method of identifying the movements of criminals using chemical analysis of soil and dust found…
Getting the conclusive lead with investigative genetic genealogy — A successful case study of a 16 year old double murder in Sweden. The technology using…
With a living descendant’s DNA sample, a team of researchers have identified the remains of John Gregory, engineer aboard HMS Erebus. The identity of the…
New approach could provide law enforcement additional tools to track down those who flee a crime scene. Skid marks left by cars are often analyzed…
How can clothing of a close-range shooter remain free of bloodstains? In 2009, music producer Phil Spector was convicted for the 2003 murder of actress…
Forensic science experts at Flinders University are refining an innovative counter-terrorism technique that checks for environmental DNA in the dust on clothing, baggage, shoes, or…
Canine trainers may no longer need to handle or expose dogs to real explosives and narcotics. Trained dogs are incredible chemical sensors, far better at…
Forensic DNA analysis enables new and increasingly sophisticated technology for solving cold cases. Through advances in DNA sequencing and bioinformatics, this relatively new and urgent…