The Forensic Science Research Group (FSRG) at Bournemouth University is dedicated to investigating critical issues in the field of forensic science.
Our mission is to support advances in Forensic Science and the impact it has on practitioners while maintaining strong links with institutions, practicing professionals, and policymakers both regionally and internationally.
Embedded within the Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, our group emphasises an interdisciplinary approach to forensic science research. We collaborate across various fields such as human biology, archaeology and anthropology, environmental sciences, and chemistry, to address complex forensic challenges.
Key Research Themes
Our research is organised around three key themes:
Human identification
Biometrics
DNA and Bodily Fluids Analysis
Forensic Anthropology
Forensic Taphonomy
Environmental aspects of decomposition
Forensic Entomology (species ID and minPMI estimation)
Entomotoxicology
Trace Evidence Interpretation
New technologies to capture, interpret, and present evidence from crime scenes
Transfer and persistence
Contactless fibre transfer and resulting interpretation issues
Facilities
Our group benefits from state-of-the-art facilities such as Anthropology Laboratories and equipment (e.g. X-RAY), Bioanalytical Laboratories and equipment (GC/MS, LC/Q-TOF, LC/MS, etc), Microscopy, etc.
We also have access to outdoor facilities to conduct taphonomic and entomological research.
External Engagement
We are actively engaging with the forensic science community through collaboration with local and national partners such as South West Forensics and the Home Office.
Our staff includes professional practitioners (current and former) who are experts in fields such as Forensic Biology, Forensic Human Identification and Crime Scene Investigation.
Postgraduate Opportunities and Professional Collaboration
We offer MRes and PhD opportunities within the Faculty of Science and Technology. Prospective students can explore the research areas in Life and Environmental Science.
The FSRG welcome discussions on possible collaborations. Interested organisations or individuals are invited to contact our team to explore potential research partnerships in forensic and investigative sciences.