Forensic Biology & Investigation

On this module you'll design and plan a research project and undertake statistical analysis of data. You'll also carry out independent research project that is based on a systematic review of the literature, laboratory or field experiments, or questionnaires and surveys.

This module will guide through a case—from collecting evidence at the crime scene to laboratory analysis, interpretation, and presenting the findings in court.

You will learn the importance of correctly packaging, labeling, storing, and maintaining continuity records for different types of evidence, and how these processes transition from the crime scene to the laboratory.

In the lab, you will develop protocols and procedures to ensure high-quality forensic analysis that meets UK standards.

The module also equips you with the skills of a scientific expert witness, providing a detailed understanding of the relevant laws, court procedures, and your duties as an expert witness in the Criminal Justice System.

The module aims to develop your skills in examining and reporting forensic evidence and enhance your understanding of the forensic process in a laboratory setting. You will learn to analyze forensic evidence in a lab environment. While the focus is on biological evidence such as blood, saliva, and semen, other types of evidence, including entomology and palynology, will also be considered. Initial DNA collection and processing methods will be covered, along with key concepts in Quality Assurance.

This module provides you with an understanding of the background and context of wildlife crime and its investigation both nationally and internationally. It equips you with the ability to evaluate and develop strategies for investigating wildlife crimes and gives you knowledge of current national and international regulations on wildlife habitats and protected species.

This module provides an insight into genetic variability and the application of that variability to forensic genetics. The module will introduce and develop all the core skills laboratory skills. The module will also develop your ability to evaluate and present DNA data

This module provides you with knowledge about the process of death and the stages of human decomposition from the early post-mortem period (minutes and hours) to the later stages (months, years, decades, and centuries).

You will explore how decomposition varies across different contexts and environments, learn techniques for estimating the post-mortem interval (PMI) and understand their limitations.

The module focuses on buried and cremated remains, critical evaluation of current literature, and key issues in taphonomy research and its practical applications. You will also receive training to recognize stages of decomposition in various environments and identify different taphonomic effects, such as scavenging or burning.

This module helps you understand the humanitarian and legal obligations, both national and international, related to identifying the living and the deceased. You will study the disciplines, methods, and techniques used to identify human remains and gain detailed insight into the death management process both within and beyond a medico-legal context.