The close, physical contact during a violent crime leads to transfer of materials from victims to perpetrators (and vice versa) such as DNA. Researchers at the University of Central Florida recently showed that two unusual types of physical evidence, glitter and shimmer, have the potential to link individuals as well. Continue reading Body glitter and shimmer can aid sexual assault investigation
European forensic scientists investigate how outdoor weather conditions impact fiber loss on static textiles, giving more quantifiable information for investigators to direct their forensic resources. Continue reading Weathering the storm: how weather conditions impact the persistence of fiber evidence
Fire destroys buildings and leaves only ash and rumble in its wake. Arsonists believe that their fiery M.O. protects them from the threat of biological evidence. However, researchers in Australia reveal buried bloodstains from dense, sooty remains. Continue reading Photographing blood under layers of soot with infrared cameras
Researchers develop an innovative workflow optimizing DNA extraction from teeth obtaining DNA for human genetic identity. Continue reading Say Cheese! A New Method Obtaining DNA from Dental Tissue
Forensic science has come under great scrutiny since the turn of the century. Scientists often pride themselves on having the ability to evolve as new evidence is presented. But can they adapt their communication skills to better the flow of knowledge delivery to their target audience? Continue reading Issues in Forensic Science Communication
Forensic scientists study the oral microbiome, the collective ecosystem of microbes in your mouth, on discarded chewing gum for potential use in forensic science. Continue reading Blow Your Own Bubble: Forensic Application of the Oral Microbiome
A new research facility in the Netherlands looks to help forensic scientists better understand human decomposition processes. Continue reading The First Human Taphonomic Research Facility in Europe Opens Its Doors to Donors
Analyzing similarities between hiker fatalities revealed clear trends in the causes and circumstances surrounding deaths in the Bern region of Switzerland. Continue reading Medicolegal Review Identifies Most Common Factors Contributing to Hiker Deaths
Dutch forensic scientists use mathematical modeling and fingerprint location to tell whether someone is an unwitting victim or sinister perpetrator. Continue reading How fingermark location and algorithms are changing forensic document examination
Currently, we can only use hair to identify people through the much-admired DNA. But scientists are now researching how a major component of hair may also be unique enough for identification. Continue reading Move Over DNA – Scientists May Identify People From Their Hair Proteins
