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155 best forensic science research topics for your paper.

Forensic Science Research Topics

Forensic science or criminalistics applies scientific methodology and principles to solving crime and aid criminal justice procedures and laws. This area of study covers many fields ranging from computer forensics to doctoral research and forensic psychology.

For students specializing in forensic science studies, it is common to have to write an essay, research paper, or dissertation on the subject’s topics. The tricky part here is to select the perfect topic from a wide array of forensic science topics for a research paper. You could work on something that focuses on a neglected area of study in the field or go in for a controversial topic. You can also pick a common topic and throw new light on it, or simply choose a topic highlighting societal trends.

Whatever you choose to work on, it is essential to clearly state your research question/topic, offer defensible logic, have a well-elaborated body and a concise conclusion to score well.

Here is a list of some of the most interesting research topics in forensic science, which will allow you to write a good essay and score well. Take a look:

Forensic Science Research Paper Topics

These are some common but good forensic science topics that are sure to get you great reviews:

  • Hereditary in fingerprints and pattern similarities among family members
  • Is it possible to solve crimes with forensic dentistry?
  • Understanding the crime through the skeletal remains of the victim
  • Victim identification through skeletal remains
  • The association between legal ethics, forensic dentistry, and crime-solving
  • Techniques of gathering DNA sample through buccal cell collection in possibly violent subjects
  • Using forensic anthropology to identify relations, family, and ancestry
  • Using forensic anthropology to identify the age, gender, and size of the victim.
  • Forensic evidence – Types, chain of custody, collection, and analysis
  • Using forensic anthropology to identify trauma and disease history
  • Forensic ballistics and how the type of weapon used can be confirmed?
  • Are standard hair tests accurate in racial estimation and solving crimes
  • How to develop the best fingerprint testing powder for unmatched result clarity
  • The role of forensic psychology in assessing the probability and incidence rate of rape
  • Forensic toxicology and its role in analyzing the effects of anti-stress drugs on military members
  • The growing need for researching the technologies supporting forensic geomorphology
  • Blood spatter studies that aid forensic science in solving crimes
  • Forensic microscopy – an insight
  • Hair and fibers – What they say in forensic science crime cases
  • Poison chemistry – how forensic experts work
  • Forensic investigations of WW1 and WW-II war graves
  • Forensic reconstructions – importance, role, and scope in solving crimes
  • The laws and principles guiding forensic science
  • Sawn-off shotguns — evaluating pellet distribution pattern based on barrel length
  • Mitochondrial DNA Analysis of skeletal remains – An overview of the technique
  • Forensic ballistics — what a bullet may tell about the crime and the weapon used
  • Forensic evidence — assembling the pieces to the criminal jigsaw
  • Drug detection timelines — an insight
  • Development and validation of the method used to assess the quality of friction skin impression for evidence
  • Fatal intoxication through Isotonitazine – A case study

Forensic Science Research Topics For High School

These are excellent topics for high school students, which are easy to work on and create impressive essays related to forensic science:

  • Comparing sibling fingerprints with strangers
  • Finding out if fingerprints of identical twins are also similar
  • Differences to quickly separate human skeletal remains from those of animals
  • Victim identification – What you must know about facial skeleton
  • DNA testing – uses and limitations
  • Different types of stab injuries are important from a forensic science perspective
  • The dental pattern of wild animals and ways to recognize them.
  • Blood spatter patterns and what they indicate about the crime
  • Creating blood spatter lab for better understanding of spatter patterns
  • Forensic science autopsy reports and what they indicate
  • Careers in forensic science and upcoming specializations
  • Forensic science and analysis of fiber evidence from the crime scene.
  • Good practices in forensic science laboratories
  • Handwriting analysis and how it helps forensic science professionals
  • The role of Forensic Genealogy in solving age-old cases
  • Iodine fuming to reveal latent fingerprints
  • Immunoassay techniques for protein identification
  • Thin Layer & Paper Chromatography to identify materials
  • Forensic art as a means to identify suspects
  • Gas chromatography to identify liquids

Interesting topics To Research That Have to Do With Forensic Science

These research topics related to forensic science will help you create an exciting write-up that will draw attention to your knowledge in the subject:

  • Studying the composition of cling film used to package illegal drugs to separate drug traffickers from consumers
  • Dense materials and their role in Geoforensics
  • DNA typing – Pros and cons from a crime-solving perspective
  • Using gene expression to assess the age of injury
  • Differences in stab injuries that confirm if wounds were antemortem or postmortem
  • The study of glass fracture pattern to assess bullet firing direction and distances
  • Ground-penetrating radar systems and their role in Geoforensics
  • Gamma-ray radiography and its role in crime-solving geomorphology studies
  • What insects tell us about the murder scene
  • The correct way to prepare a forensic autopsy report
  • Forensic psychology and law – an insight
  • The forensic science behind fire investigations
  • Organic chemistry and its role in forensic science for solving crimes
  • Mathematics and statistics — how they aid cases of forensic science
  • The forensic science behind identifying forgery and counterfeiting
  • Use of 3D imaging for visualization of footwear and tire impressions at the crime scene
  • Fluid dynamics study to assess bloody fingerprints at the crime scene
  • Audio recordings — interpretation and processing to build a case
  • Recorded gunshot sounds and how they are interpreted and analyzed to solve crimes
  • Cartridge case comparisons to assess pressure factors in firearms

Controversial Topics In Forensic Science

This is a collection of research paper topics for forensic science that is sure to spark a debate when discussed in class:

  • Are changes in the composition of cling film used for drug packaging of any forensic value to arrest criminals?
  • DNA typing — an analysis of the efficacy of this technique in identifying victims and unsolved crimes
  • Isotope ratio mass spectrometry — an analysis of accuracy concerning the crime, its conditions, and people involved
  • Flies that come on a dead body based on its location and time of death
  • Forensic psychology and its impact on instances of Military rape
  • Is forensic toxicology research lacking in assessing drug abuse among military personnel during combat?
  • Is Forensic geomorphology helpful in solving crimes?
  • Skeletal tissues and forensic microscopy — the role they play in solving crimes
  • Forensic science and how it makes the dead speak
  • Characteristics of Zopiclone degradation and consequences from a forensic toxicology perspective
  • Understanding what happens to the body when someone dies naturally vs. a violent death.
  • Criminal minds and their forensic psychology
  • The role of Trace DNA in criminal investigations and its reliability
  • Criminal profiling and the role of Forensic psychology in arresting the killer
  • Forensic victimology and its role in context with investigations and legal parameters

Forensic Science Topics For Presentation

Suppose you want to make a presentation on any aspect of forensic science. In that case, you can consider the topics given below as they provide sufficient scope and information:

  • How to extract fingerprints from a crime scene
  • Equipment used in crime scene fingerprinting and the process
  • How to identify skeletal remains of a human subject
  • Building the face of a human through the remains of their skeleton
  • Know all about the various techniques used in forensic anthropology
  • Cyber forensics – How to catch a hacker
  • Methods of DNA testing
  • Methods of DNA testing of unwilling subjects
  • Standard forensic hair tests used in forensic examinations
  • Identification of cell type and body fluid through RNA based methods
  • Types of flies that congregate on a dead body indicating the time of death
  • A detailed step-by-step guide to forensic deduction
  • Cyber Forensics – how to detect phishing
  • Forensic science – the basics of crime scene analysis
  • Forensic frauds and laws around examiner misconduct
  • Methods and tools used by forensic pathologists
  • Forensic autopsy Vs. Regular Autopsy
  • The Muscid fly and its forensic importance
  • The role of forensic science in tracking victims of human trafficking
  • Evaluation of footwear impression — a step by step guide of the Footwear Impression Comparison System (FICS)

Forensic Science Thesis Topics

Use any of the topics given below to write an impressive thesis that showcases in-depth knowledge. These topics provide ample scope to delve deeper into the subject and write after thorough research.

  • Fingerprint science — an insight
  • Crime scene fingerprinting — a detailed study
  • Forensic anthropology — an insight
  • Forensic anthropological techniques for a detailed history of the victim
  • Isotope ratio mass spectrometry — An Insight
  • Computer forensics and its role in solving cybercrime
  • Forensic toxicology and how it may help prevent military violence
  • The role of forensic anthropology in postmortem findings
  • DNA testing methodology — an insight into means available and their efficacy
  • Reassessment of Asphyxia and the Pink Teeth Phenomenon
  • Forensic psychology – differentiating sociopaths from psychopaths
  • Study of blood in forensic science
  • DNA typing – An insight into unsolved crimes and the use of this method
  • Nanotechnology in Forensic studies – An insight
  • Consumer protection in the world of growing cyber crimes and how cyber forensics can help
  • Forensic toxicology – An insight
  • Fingerprint ridge density and its relation with sex determination
  • Forensic geomorphology – an extensive study of the scope and application of this field of study
  • The history and evolution of forensic science
  • Medical Image security using digital watermarking – An overview
  • Anatomy of bruises and what they convey about the tracker and the victim
  • Forensic psychology – Understanding the characteristics of psychopaths for profiling.
  • High-Resolution Melt (HRM) assays – An insight
  • Human vaginal matrix and the analysis of condom evidence from a forensic perspective
  • Handprint dimensions for Sex classifications – the ABC model of forensic science

Current Topics in Forensic Science

These topics stem from the latest developments in forensic sciences and highlight the current environment in this field of study. Take a look:

  • Latest techniques in forensic science to catch murderers
  • Studying injury age using gene expression to solve the crime
  • Latest forensic science techniques used to identify illicit drugs
  • Developments in technology and chemistry that aid forensic science like never before
  • Latest illegal drug recognition systems – an insight
  • The amino acid fingerprint test – an evaluation
  • Identifying of Felidae Animals using Elemental Analysis of Hair and its Scanning Electron Microscopic Characterization
  • Pediatric Poisoning — Seasonal trends, materials and distribution across the UK.
  • The UK forensic science environment and what has changed
  • The changing scene of Geomorphology with gamma-ray radiography and ground-penetrating radar
  • How stable is the use of Zopiclone in forensic studies related to whole blood samples
  • Latest enhancements in RNA based methods for identification of cell type and body fluid
  • The emerging role of computer forensics in cybercrime and the latest developments.
  • Cyberwarfare and how cyber forensics fit in?
  • Geoforensics – how soil mapping aids in solving crimes
  • mRNA profiling assays and their role in reducing time and cost of analysis
  • Latest technologies used in the identification of body fluids
  • Latest trends in forensic odontology
  • Heartbreak Grass deaths — A toxicological and medico-legal analysis
  • Water-soluble paper analysis for forensic discrimination
  • A worldwide survey of issues in forensic science – A contemporary perspective
  • DNA study to assess regular occupancy in any vehicle
  • Methods of assessing authentic audio recordings using different voice apps
  • An insight into the DNA extraction process for DNA identification in bodies
  • One-handed strangulation – A reconstruction study to find the criminal

If you are looking to submit an impressive dissertation or essay on a topic on forensic science and are still confused about how to proceed, get in touch with us. We can help you find impressive topics for your dissertation and help with forensic science research proposal topics. We have a strong team of expert writers and provide an array of high-quality, professional writing services for college and high school students.

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forensic science research paper ideas

231 Amazing Forensic Science Research Topics

Forensic Science Research Topics

What is forensic science? Forensic Science is a field of academic study that entails applying scientific methods and processes to solve crimes. It mainly applies to the courts of the judicial system. College students should use scientific innovations and forensic science advancements to bring solutions to criminal offenses. Due to the technicality of the field, it is rare to find professional forensic science topics. However, our expert writers have collated a list of 231 writing ideas that you can use for your following paper. If you want to have a good grade, but find writing a research paper a really difficult task, it’s better to hire a someone to complete your assignment.  

Easy Forensic Science Research Paper Topics

  • The development of forensic science since the late 18th century
  • Impacts of the extraordinary scientific innovations and advancements to forensic Science
  • The application of DNA and botany to forensic Science
  • How forensic science helps in the examination of physical evidence
  • The role of forensic research to clear and concise reporting
  • What is the essence of a truthful testimony of a forensic scientist?
  • A case study of criminal cases and convictions handled through forensic Science
  • How forensic Science brings out objective facts through scientific knowledge
  • Impact of private companies conducting forensic Science
  • An evaluation of microscopic examining techniques
  • Mathematical principles used in forensic study
  • Why a majority of forensic scientists work in forensic labs or morgues
  • Qualifications or one to work as an independent forensic science consultant
  • Analyze the composition of forensic pathologists
  • Discuss the distinct roles of forensic deontologists
  • How is digital forensics a game-changer in solving homicides?
  • Fields of criminal justice and the law that deals with forensics
  • Understanding the scientific and social environment of the criminal justice system

High-Quality Forensic Science Topics For a Research Paper

  • Assess some selected concepts of forensic engineering
  • Discuss the legal standards of admissible evidence
  • How forensic scientists collect, preserve, and analyze scientific evidence
  • The impact of forensic scientists testifying as expert witnesses
  • How the ancient world operated without forensics
  • Compare and contrast forced confessions and witness testimony to forensics
  • The relationship between medicine and entomology in solving criminal cases
  • The role of Ambroise Paré in laying a groundwork for forensic Science
  • How the Enlightenment era contributed to the development of forensics
  • A case study of John Toms’ trial and conviction for murdering Edward Culshaw with a pistol
  • How James Marsh applied Science to the art of forensics
  • Analyze the use of bullet comparison in 1835
  • Discuss the anthropological technique of anthropometry
  • Factors affecting forensic document examination
  • Effectiveness of the use of fingerprinting in identifying criminal suspects
  • Discuss the evolution of forensic DNA analysis from 1984
  • How effective was a scientific and surgical investigation in forensics?
  • The role of crime scene photography to forensics

Hot Research Topics in Forensic Science

  • The role of biological evidence and DNA in Forensic Science
  • How fingerprints and pattern evidence contribute to forensics
  • Discuss the impact of Opioids and other illegal drugs on forensic study
  • The effect of technology in building digital evidence
  • Factors that affect effective ballistics in pre-meditated murder
  • How to trace evidence using forensics
  • The importance of the National Commission on Forensic Science
  • Conduct an analysis of pattern and impression evidence
  • The relationship between trace evidence and chemistry
  • Evidence analysis and processing using forensic Science
  • How to use controlled substances in a forensic study
  • Discuss the alternative genetic markers in forensics
  • How to deal with compromised DNA evidence in forensics
  • The impact of automation and miniaturization in forensics
  • Why the mitochondrial DNA is critical in forensic Science
  • Discuss the steps involved in the Y-chromosome analysis
  • How to conduct effective sperm detection and separation
  • How to determine culprits behind fire and arson through forensic study

A+ Forensic Science Research Proposal Topics

  • Addressing the reliability and credibility of pattern and impression evidence
  • Rigorously test the method of forensic DNA analysis
  • Develop strategies to detect and identify new drugs
  • Discuss the psychological implications of Forensic Science
  • Why computer forensics and cybercrime is becoming more complicated
  • Evaluate the advancements made in forensic toxicology and military violence
  • Considerations for Geo-forensics and dense material
  • The impact of ground-penetrating radar and gamma-ray radiography on forensics
  • Assess a typical day in the office for a forensic chemist
  • Qualities that forensic practitioners must possess
  • The state of forensic nursing in the United States
  • Discuss the correlation between forensics and law
  • How to expand the field of forensics through forensic intelligence
  • The cognitive aspect of forensic Science
  • How to integrate forensic Science into the curriculum
  • Are American academies of forensic Science up to the standard?
  • The role of police science technicians in solving crimes
  • Application areas of Physics in forensic Science

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Impressive Research Paper Topics For Forensic Science

  • Is it justifiable to use animals in forensic science research?
  • How to best communicate forensic science evidence in the criminal justice system
  • Effectiveness and perceived trustworthiness of Forensic Science
  • The sociology of Forensic Science in the 21st century
  • The necessity of geographic forensic medicine
  • The role of DNA methylation in forensic Science
  • Is there a need for more research in forensic science?
  • Are some forensic practices slowly becoming out of date?
  • The desirability of specific technologies to be used in forensic Science
  • Physical and social considerations for an effective forensic investigation
  • Discuss the essence of nanoparticles in forensic Science
  • The relationship between clinical research and forensic medicine
  • A historical perspective of parasites in forensic Science
  • Systems of classifying handwritings in forensic Science
  • Analyze the drawbacks in the development of forensic study
  • How to incorporate arguments into a forensic trial
  • Does a degree in forensic Science guarantee you a job in Pentagon?
  • Discuss the educational requirements for forensic scientists

Excellent Research Topics Related to Forensic Science

  • Microbiome tools used for forensic Science
  • The impact of new psychoactive substances in forensic Science
  • Who should accredit undergraduate forensic science students?
  • The effect of DTIC and technology on computer forensics
  • The application of forensic Science in army counterintelligence
  • What is the future of forensic Science in wildlife?
  • Possible initiatives that can help strengthen forensic Science
  • What an error means for a forensic study
  • Is the curriculum for high school students on forensic Science effective enough?
  • Why next-generation sequencing technology is necessary for forensics
  • Current utilization of the internet for forensic Science
  • The impact of search engines and databases in forensic study
  • The ethological and cultural evolution of forensic Science
  • Assessment of the effectiveness of forensic science in criminal law
  • The result of big data on forensic Science and medicine
  • Why molecular imprinting is necessary for forensic study
  • Narratives and Science in forensic historiography
  • The effect of infrared spectroscopy imaging on forensic Science

Top Forensic Science Research Topics For High School

  • Discuss the nuclear forensics for a high school science
  • The impact of visual color comparisons in forensic Science
  • The effect of the grand innovation challenges for the forensic community
  • A survey of the courses offered in Forensic Science
  • Historical trends in the study of forensic anthropology
  • Can forensic identification evidence be null on the grounds of reliability?
  • What makes forensic chemistry unique among chemical sciences?
  • A critical diagnosis of the paradigms of Forensic Science
  • The impact of age estimation in forensic Science
  • How forensic Science w in insulin poisoning
  • The effect of virtual reality and simulations on forensic study
  • Challenges for research in the field of forensic medicine
  • A survey of educational institutions offering forensic Science
  • How forensic science contributes to wildlife conservation efforts
  • Identify the prevalent problems in forensic genetic approaches
  • A review of forensic science in the context of Islamic law
  • Discuss the process of accrediting forensic science labs
  • A review of the role of the FBI in forensic Science

Interesting Topics to Research That Have to do With Forensic Science

  • Using atomic force microscopy in forensic Science
  • Discuss the limitations of using environmental forensic microscopy
  • Understanding and utilizing the human element in forensic Science
  • Discuss the considerations for psychiatric caring in forensic Science
  • How RNA works in forensic Science
  • A contextual analysis of digital stratigraphy in forensic Science
  • Analysis of the challenges facing nuclear forensic Science
  • What happens when a forensic investigation goes out of control?
  • Ethical considerations in the field of forensic Science
  • Why crime scene management is necessary for forensic investigation
  • How the Raman spectroscopy has contributed to forensic Science
  • A study of the inconsistencies in the curricula of forensic science degree programs
  • Evaluate the use of simulation in forensic nursing and competency
  • How to bridge the gap between forensic Science and entomology
  • The role of detectives in a forensic science investigation
  • New perspectives impacting the study of forensic Science
  • Discuss the integration of forensic examination into imageology
  • The impact of television production and modern storytelling in forensics

Unearthed Forensic Science Topics

  • Testing the validity and reliability of forensic voices
  • The role of pictures in crime investigation and scene reconstruction
  • A theoretical evaluation of forensic nursing science
  • Why is the field of forensic science dominated by men
  • Emotional and psychological impacts of being a forensics expert
  • Technological means of advancing the Science of forensics
  • How to select a hypothesis and test common misinterpretations in forensics
  • The relationship between culture, law, and forensics in criminal justice
  • Discover the discrepancies in Forensic Science in the US and UK
  • Potential applications of Forensic Science in the aviation industry
  • The role of podiatric knowledge and experience in forensic investigations
  • Investigating sudden cardiac death using forensic Science
  • Why pattern uniqueness is relevant in forensic Science
  • How forensic investigations are necessary for human rights investigations
  • Understanding the cognitive neuroscience in forensic Science
  • A methodological approach to the use of IRMS in forensic Science
  • The power of forensic Science in facial recognition
  • Discuss the relationship between forensic Science and Standards Act of 2012

Controversial Topics in Forensic Science

  • How accurate is racial-estimation in standard hair-tests amongst forensic hair examiners?
  • Implications of illicit-tablet recognition systems to human health
  • Is the use of forensic-DNA ethical?
  • Why a cling-film is the best product for packaging illicit drugs
  • Do some forensic science methods contribute to racial profiling?
  • How forensics is a leading contributor to the invasion of the right to privacy
  • Legislative responses that are taking shape in the light of Forensic Science
  • Why wrongful convictions have happened as a result of forensics
  • Reasons why problems can be present in forensic Science
  • The limitations of ballistic and hair analysis
  • Is there a lack of scientific credibility in forensics?
  • Can error rates occur in the case of DNA analysis?
  • The relationship between forensic tools and underlying Science
  • Evaluate the massive post-conviction review of 2,500 points by the FBI
  • Are the self-regulatory codes in forensic Science sufficient enough?
  • The impact of the low number of forensics on its effectiveness
  • The effect of the absence of regulatory organizations on forensic Science
  • Dealing with the professional misconduct of a forensic scientist

Forensic Science Topics For Presentation

  • The relationship between forensics and the application of Science to law
  • Discuss the arbitrary distinction between ethics and morals in forensics
  • Evaluate the religious considerations when conducting forensics
  • Evaluate what constitutes a misrepresentation of the credentials before the court of law
  • The rising cases of counterfeit professional licensures or certifications
  • The impacts of movies and TV series’ on forensic Science
  • Is the increasing number of private forensic consultants something to worry about in the 21st century?
  • Do public forensic laboratories portray a higher ethical ground than private ones?
  • Critically analyze the innate responsibility and obligation of forensic scientists towards the forensic science profession
  • Recognizing the limitations of scientific and professional forensic knowledge
  • Discuss situations when forensic Science may deprive one of the fundamental human rights
  • Why forensic scientists must be reasonably familiar with the judicial or administrative rules
  • Factors that may lead to lack of objectivity and exploitation among forensic scientists
  • Discuss the institutional policy requirements that may limit proper forensic study
  • The dilemma of multiple relationships in forensic Science
  • Why a forensic scientist must seek consent before proceeding with an investigation
  • The critical role of protecting the client’s confidentiality in forensic study
  • The part of the documentation in forensic study

Forensic Science Thesis Topics

  • How to synthesize powder to develop the best prints
  • Analyze the different types of stab injury postmortem
  • How to study glass fracture patterns through firing bullets from various positions
  • Conduct an in-depth analysis of the different types of inks
  • Discuss how to identify counterfeits
  • Reliable methods of evidence preservation for long cases
  • Discuss the genetic variability of different phylogenetic in forensic Science
  • The role of paper spray mass spectrometry in detecting hazardous chemicals
  • Discuss the viability of a shared ballistics database between two conflicting countries
  • Necessary improvements to buccal cell collection for DNA testing
  • Analyze the common factors that affect the composition of the cling film
  • Critically analyze how the change in nature affects a crime site
  • Evaluate the different technological approaches to forensic Science
  • Assess the reliability of evidence after an error occurred in the first test
  • Evaluate the efficiency of USB devices in remote monitoring among computer users
  • Discuss the gaps that exist in America’s police force: Inconsistencies in forensic services
  • How accurate is racial estimation using standard hair tests?
  • Compare and contrast the different tablet recognition systems used by the FBI.

Current Topics in Forensic Science

  • The impact of coronavirus on forensic Science
  • Why the 5G technology may be the game-changer in the field of forensic Science
  • The role of hacking software in tracing digital footprints online
  • Why global warming is posing a threat to uncovering past cases using forensics
  • Why is the study of forensic science essential in the 21st century?
  • What is the best major for forensic Science for college students?
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of the criteria for forensic Science
  • Is the field of forensic Science a well-paying job arena?
  • Do judges depend on forensic evidence in court?
  • What is the impact of a long time taken during forensic studies on a case?
  • Who is responsible for an error during forensic research?
  • Why documenting forensics scenes in the 21st century has become more efficient
  • Impact of laser scanners, photogrammetry, and drones in forensic Science
  • Latest technologies to conduct bloodstain pattern analysis
  • Why computational forensics is raising safety issues

And there you have a list of 231 good forensic science topics. If you wish to learn how to write a paper, our custom help is all you need. Let us show you how to complete a forensic paper fast and easy today! Contact us with a “ do my research paper now” request and get an A+. 

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80 Forensic Science Research Topics

FacebookXEmailWhatsAppRedditPinterestLinkedInIf you are a student seeking compelling research topics in Forensic Science, you have come to the right place.  Embarking on their academic journey in Forensic Science, the quest for persuasive research topics is a critical and exciting step, whether you’re an undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral candidate. The realm of forensic science is as vast […]

Forensic Science Research Topics

If you are a student seeking compelling research topics in Forensic Science, you have come to the right place.  Embarking on their academic journey in Forensic Science, the quest for persuasive research topics is a critical and exciting step, whether you’re an undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral candidate. The realm of forensic science is as vast as it is captivating, offering an array of possibilities to explore and contribute to this fascinating field. In this article, we will dive into a rich assortment of research topics encompassing the diverse facets of forensic science, ensuring you find the perfect subject matter to propel your research forward and make a meaningful impact in criminal justice and investigation.

Forensic Science, also known as criminalistics or forensic studies, is a multidisciplinary field that applies scientific principles and techniques to investigate crimes, analyze evidence, and assist in legal proceedings, ultimately aiding in the pursuit of justice. It encompasses a range of scientific disciplines and methodologies to uncover crucial information in criminal investigations.

A List Of Potential Research Topics In Forensic Science:

  • Assessing the role of digital forensics in cybercrime investigations during and after the COVID-19 lockdowns.
  • Analyzing the reliability of gunshot residue analysis in self-defense cases.
  • Investigating the application of forensic engineering in fire investigations.
  • A comprehensive survey of the forensic use of stable isotope analysis in tracing geographical origins.
  • Evaluating the use of forensic video analysis in criminal surveillance.
  • Evaluating the use of forensic anthropology in identifying human trafficking victims.
  • Analyzing the impact of forensic entomology in wildlife crime investigations.
  • Examining the impact of forensic social work in child custody evaluations.
  • Evaluating the effectiveness of the UK’s criminal justice system in handling forensic evidence during and after the pandemic.
  • Assessing the use of geospatial analysis in locating clandestine gravesites.
  • Examining the accuracy of gunshot residue analysis in forensic firearms examination.
  • Examining the impact of environmental factors on the decomposition of human remains.
  • Studying the effectiveness of forensic psychiatry in assessing criminal responsibility.
  • Evaluating the impact of remote court proceedings on the presentation of forensic evidence in UK trials.
  • A comprehensive review of recent advancements in forensic DNA analysis techniques.
  • Evaluating the use of forensic toxicology in workplace safety investigations.
  • Analyzing changes in forensic toxicology protocols and challenges in post-COVID-19 cases.
  • Analyzing the reliability of forensic entomology in wildlife trafficking cases.
  • Analyzing the reliability of forensic document examination in fraud cases.
  • Studying the effectiveness of forensic nursing in elder abuse cases.
  • Intersecting frontiers: the role of genetics in advancing forensic science and life science.
  • Assessing the effectiveness of forensic geology in art forgery detection.
  • Examining the effects of lockdown measures on the occurrence and investigation of domestic violence cases.
  • Investigating the use of forensic linguistics in deciphering coded messages in criminal cases.
  • Investigating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the analysis of forensic evidence in criminal cases.
  • Investigating the use of DNA analysis in identifying and tracking COVID-19 outbreaks in UK communities.
  • Evaluating the reliability of remote forensic examinations and expert testimonies in a post-pandemic courtroom setting.
  • Examining the impact of forensic psychology in profiling serial offenders.
  • Analyzing the reliability of forensic video analysis in child exploitation cases.
  • Exploring contact tracing and digital surveillance data in forensic investigations post-COVID-19.
  • Evaluating the use of forensic toxicology in workplace drug testing.
  • Assessing the use of artificial intelligence in forensic image analysis.
  • Analyzing the role of forensic anthropology in identifying and repatriating COVID-19 victims in the UK.
  • Exploring the potential of 3D printing in creating forensic models for crime scene reconstruction.
  • Exploring the role of digital forensics in intellectual property theft cases.
  • Investigating the reliability of bloodstain pattern analysis in crime scene reconstruction.
  • A critical analysis of the challenges and opportunities in forensic entomology.
  • Assessing the psychological well-being and resilience of forensic professionals during the pandemic.
  • Analyzing the use of toxicology in determining the cause of death in overdose cases.
  • Exploring the role of forensic genetics in cold case investigations.
  • Investigating the role of forensic linguistics in authorship attribution of anonymous threats.
  • A review of the impact of forensic science on wrongful convictions and its role in exonerations.
  • Examining the challenges faced by UK forensic laboratories in maintaining chain of custody during the pandemic.
  • Studying the application of digital forensics in cybercrime investigations.
  • Examining the impact of forensic botany in plant-based poisonings.
  • A review of the forensic applications of geospatial analysis and its role in crime scene reconstruction.
  • Examining the impact of forensic accounting in financial fraud cases.
  • Investigating the role of forensic nursing in sexual assault nurse examiner (SANE) programs.
  • Assessing the effectiveness of forensic chemistry in drug analysis for law enforcement.
  • Examining the use of forensic anthropology in identifying individuals in mass disasters.
  • Evaluating the reliability of digital forensics in cases involving cyberbullying.
  • Examining the evolution of forensic techniques and protocols in the United Kingdom in response to COVID-19.
  • Examining the impact of forensic chemistry in arson investigations.
  • Risk assessment and forensic analysis: bridging the gap between forensic and actuarial science .
  • Evaluating the use of virtual reality in crime scene reconstruction and training.
  • A systematic review of forensic odontology techniques and their role in disaster victim identification.
  • Exploring the use of AI and machine learning algorithms in enhancing forensic data analysis post-COVID-19.
  • Studying the application of forensic botany in illegal logging investigations.
  • Analyzing the impact of lockdowns on the rise of cybercrimes and digital forensics in the UK.
  • Investigating the role of forensic epidemiology in disease outbreak investigations.
  • Assessing the role of forensic epidemiology in disaster preparedness planning.
  • Exploring the role of forensic botany in environmental crime investigations.
  • Investigating the role of forensic entomology in insect infestation cases.
  • Analyzing the reliability of facial recognition software in criminal investigations.
  • Analyzing the role of forensic botany in criminal investigations.
  • Investigating the use of forensic accounting in corruption investigations.
  • Analyzing the challenges of preserving and processing physical evidence in a COVID-19-affected environment.
  • Investigating the use of stable isotopes in determining geographical origins of unidentified human remains.
  • Examining the impact of forensic psychology in assessing witness reliability.
  • Evaluating the use of forensic genetics in kinship analysis for immigration cases.
  • Studying the effectiveness of forensic anthropology in identifying mass graves.
  • Assessing the use of forensic archaeology in historic grave excavations.
  • Analyzing the reliability of voice analysis in speaker identification for criminal cases.
  • Assessing the application of forensic chemistry in food adulteration detection.
  • Exploring the ethical considerations of using AI and machine learning in forensic investigations within the UK context.
  • An examination of the reliability and limitations of forensic toxicology in post-mortem investigations.
  • Evaluating the accuracy of gunshot residue analysis in suicide investigations.
  • Assessing the role of forensic entomology in determining the post-mortem interval in UK cases during COVID-19.
  • Evaluating the effectiveness of forensic odontology in identifying human remains.
  • Assessing the effectiveness of trace evidence analysis in sexual assault cases.

In Forensic Science, the pursuit of knowledge and the quest for answers is unceasing. As you explore the list of research topics we’ve provided for undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral-level dissertations, remember that each case represents an opportunity to push the boundaries of human understanding and make a lasting impact in criminal justice. Whether examining innovative DNA analysis techniques or delving into the intricacies of digital forensics, your research can play a pivotal role in solving real-world mysteries. So, embark on your research journey enthusiastically, knowing you hold the keys to uncovering the truth in the complex forensic science web.

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130+ Unique Forensic Science Research Topics for Students

Table of Contents

Forensic Science is an academic discipline that involves applying scientific methods and principles to solve crimes. It is closely allied to the courts of the judicial system. This course of study mainly covers a wide range of fields such as computer forensics, forensics psychology, doctoral research, and many more. If you are a student who is pursuing a degree in forensic science, then to obtain graduation, for your final assignments, you must work on forensic science research topics and submit a detailed thesis or dissertation.

Forensic Science Research Topics

Currently, do you want to submit a forensic science research paper? Are you seeking the best forensic science research topics? Great! To you help you out, here, we have suggested a list of some interesting forensic science research topics to explore and write about. Also, we have explained how to choose a good topic for a forensic science research paper. Continue reading this blog post and get more ideas for forensic science research paper writing.

Forensic Science Research Paper Topic Selection

In the research paper writing process, searching and finding an ideal research topic is the first step that is extremely challenging. In general, there are plenty of forensic science research topics available. So, it is tricky to identify one perfect topic from that wide array of topics.

Instead of essay prompts, at times, you will be given a chance to come up with a good forensic science research paper topic of your choice. In such a scenario, make sure to consider the following.

  • Work on a research topic from an ignored area of study in the field, or
  • Select a common topic and address it from different perspectives, or
  • Pick a topic that highlights societal trends.

But during the forensic science research paper topic selection, in order to find a good topic, keep the following tips in mind.

  • Choose a topic from your area of interest.
  • Never pick a topic that is neither too wide nor too specific.
  • Give preference to the topic that is interesting and informative for your target readers.
  • Identify a topic with large research scope.
  • Select a topic that has many sources of references.
  • Go with a topic that has valid evidence or examples to prove your main arguments or points.
  • Finalize the research topic, only when it satisfies your professor’s or university’s research paper writing instructions if there are any.

List of Forensic Science Research Paper Topics

Here is a list of some interesting forensic science research topics and ideas that will help you score an A+ grade.

Forensic Science Research Topics

If you are not sure what topic to choose for your forensic science research paper, take a look at the list of research topic ideas suggested below and from it pick an ideal topic of your choice.

Simple Forensic Science Research Topics

  • Compare sibling fingerprints with strangers.
  • Discuss the uses and limitations of DNA Testing.
  • What do blood spatter patterns indicate about a crime?
  • Explain how handwriting analysis helps forensic science professionals.
  • What do the forensic science autopsy reports indicate?
  • How to identify materials using Thin Layers & Paper Chromatography?
  • Research and find whether fingerprints of identical twins are similar.
  • How to recognize the dental pattern of wild animals.
  • Explain the role of Forensic Genealogy in solving age-old cases.
  • Explain the different types of stab injuries from a forensic science perspective.
  • How to extract fingerprints from a crime scene?
  • How to catch a hacker using cyber forensics?
  • What are the methods and tools used by forensic pathologists?
  • Cyber forensics: How to detect Phishing?
  • How to identify the face of a human through the remains of the skeleton?
  • Explain the basics of crime scene analysis.
  • How to track the victims of human trafficking using forensic science?
  • What are the methods of DNA testing of unwilling subjects?
  • How to identify cell type and body fluid through RNA-based methods?
  • Compare forensic autopsy and regular autopsy.
  • Hereditary in fingerprints and pattern similarities among family members
  • Is it possible to solve crimes with forensic dentistry?
  • Understanding the crime through the skeletal remains of the victim
  • Victim identification through skeletal remains
  • The association between legal ethics, forensic dentistry, and crime-solving
  • Techniques of gathering DNA samples through buccal cell collection in possibly violent subjects

Best Forensic Science Research Paper Topics

  • How to identify relations, family, and ancestry using forensic anthropology?
  • Explain the techniques for gathering DNA samples.
  • Discuss the laws and principles guiding forensic science.
  • Are standard hair tests accurate in racial estimation and solving crimes?
  • How to identify victims through skeletal remains?
  • Forensic ballistics: how the type of weapon used can be confirmed?
  • How to prepare the best fingerprint testing powder for unmatched result clarity?
  • What do hair and fiber say in forensic science crime cases?
  • How to identify the age, gender, and size of the victim using forensic anthropology?
  • Explain the role of forensic toxicology in analyzing the effects of anti-stress drugs on military members.
  • Prepare a case study of fatal intoxication through Isotonitazine.
  • Discuss the role of forensic psychology in assessing the probability rate of rape.
  • Give an overview of drug detection timelines.
  • How to identify trauma and disease history using forensic anthropology?
  • Using forensic anthropology to identify relations, family, and ancestry
  • Using forensic anthropology to identify the age, gender, and size of the victim.
  • Forensic evidence – Types, chain of custody, collection, and analysis
  • Using forensic anthropology to identify trauma and disease history

Good Forensic Science Research Questions

  • Explain the pros and cons of DNA typing from a crime-solving perspective.
  • Assess the age of inquiry using gene expression.
  • Describe the forensic science behind fire investigations.
  • What do insects indicate about the murder scene?
  • Explain the role of Gamma-ray radiography in crime-solving geomorphology studies.
  • How to prepare a forensic autopsy report?
  • Assess bullet firing direction and distances with glass fracture pattern.
  • Explain the Use of 3D imaging for visualization of footwear and tire impressions at the crime scene.
  • Discuss the role of organic chemistry in forensic science for solving crimes.
  • Talk about Forensic psychology and law.
  • Assess bloody fingerprints at the crime scene using fluid dynamics.
  • How do mathematics and statistics aid cases of forensic science?
  • Explain the role of Ground-penetrating radar systems in Geoforensics.
  • Describe the forensic science behind identifying forgery and counterfeiting.
  • How recorded gunshot sounds are analyzed to solve crimes?

Interesting Forensic Science Research Topics

  • Explain the mathematical principles used in the forensic study.
  • Discuss the anthropological technique of anthropometry.
  • How do forensic scientists collect, preserve, and analyze scientific evidence?
  • Discuss the impact of Opioids and other illegal drugs on the forensic study.
  • What is the role of police science technicians in solving crimes?
  • What are the factors that affect forensic document examination?
  • Explain the impact of automation and miniaturization in forensics.
  • How is digital forensics a game-changer in solving homicides?
  • Discuss the impact of search engines and databases in the forensic study.
  • Explain the microbiome tools used for forensic science.
  • How the Raman spectroscopy contributed to forensic science?
  • Explain the link between medicine and entomology in solving criminal cases.
  • Why molecular imprinting is necessary for forensic study?
  • What is the role of crime scene photography in forensics?
  • Discuss the essence of nanoparticles in forensic science.

Forensic Science Research Topics

Forensic Science Thesis Topics

  • Present an overview of Medical Image security using digital watermarking.
  • What is the role of computer forensics in solving cybercrime?
  • Explain the anatomy of bruises and what they convey about the tracker and the victim.
  • Write about the history and evolution of forensic science.
  • How to synthesize powder to develop the best prints?
  • Analyze how the change in nature affects a crime site.
  • Nanotechnology in Forensic studies.
  • Discuss how to identify counterfeits.
  • Analyze the different types of inks.
  • Explain the role of paper spray mass spectrometry in detecting hazardous chemicals.

Read more: Top Political Science Research Topics To Write About

Forensic Science Dissertation Topics

  • Conduct a contextual analysis of digital stratigraphy in forensic science.
  • How to use controlled substances in a forensic study?
  • Build strategies to detect and identify new drugs.
  • Assess the effectiveness of forensic science in criminal law.
  • How to find the culprits behind fire and arson through forensic study?
  • What is the future of forensic science in wildlife?
  • Evaluate the use of simulation in forensic nursing.
  • Discuss the effect of infrared spectroscopy imaging on forensic science.
  • What is the impact of visual color comparisons in forensic science?
  • Investigate sudden cardiac death using forensic Science.
  • What is the role of detectives in a forensic science investigation?
  • Evaluate the religious considerations when conducting forensics.
  • Discuss the impacts of movies and TV series’ on forensic Science.
  • Identify the limitations of scientific and professional forensic knowledge.
  • What are the reliable methods of evidence preservation for long cases?

Latest Research Topics in Forensic Science

  • Discuss the latest techniques in forensic science to catch murderers.
  • Evaluate the amino acid fingerprint test.
  • Explain how soil mapping aids in solving crimes.
  • Discuss the latest forensic science techniques used to identify illicit drugs.
  • Explain the methods of assessing authentic audio recordings using different voice apps.
  • Discuss the latest trends in forensic odontology.
  • What are the latest technologies used to identify body fluids?
  • Discuss the latest technologies to conduct bloodstain pattern analysis.
  • Explain the impact of laser scanners, photogrammetry, and drones in forensic science.
  • What is the role of hacking software in tracing digital footprints online?
  • How to combat the opioid epidemic with forensic science?
  • What is Forensic DNA?
  • Use of forensic science
  • Compare atomic and molecular technology
  • Discuss the use of high-powered microscopes
  • What are the 4 applications of forensic science?
  • Discuss the search methods in forensic science
  • What is modern forensic?
  • Difference between CSI and forensics
  • Role of the forensic pathologists

High-quality Forensic Science Research Paper Topics

  • How forensic science helps in the examination of physical evidence
  • Analyze the composition of forensic pathologists
  • Investigate how the ancient world operated without forensics.
  • Discuss the alternative genetic markers in forensics.
  • Discuss the psychological implications of Forensic Science
  • Write about the application areas of Physics in forensic Science
  • Explain how forensic science contributes to wildlife conservation efforts
  • Write about the potential applications of Forensic Science in the aviation industry.
  • Discuss the distinct roles of forensic deontologists
  • Conduct an analysis of pattern and impression evidence

Controversial Forensic Science Research Topics

  • Explain the role of Trace DNA in criminal investigations.
  • Is Forensic geomorphology helpful in solving crimes?
  • How the forensic science makes the dead speak?
  • Describe the impact of Forensic psychology on instances of Military rape.
  • Is the use of forensic-DNA ethical?
  • Discuss the relationship between forensic tools and underlying Science.
  • Is there a lack of scientific credibility in forensics?
  • Explain the limitations of ballistic and hair analysis.
  • Are the self-regulatory codes in forensic Science sufficient enough?
  • Do some forensic science methods contribute to racial profiling?

Final Words

Hopefully, the list of ideas suggested in this blog would aid you in composing an outstanding forensic science research paper. In case, you need any other unique topic or if you need help with writing a detailed forensic science research paper, then approach us immediately. From research paper topic selection to writing and proofreading, the skilled forensic science assignment helpers in our platform will provide the best assistance. Moreover, by availing of our assignment writing help online , you can also submit a plagiarism-free forensic science research paper ahead of the deadline and achieve good grades.

To yield more scholastic advantages, just book your assignment order on our website at a fair price and save time!

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180 Outstanding Forensic Science Research Topics

Table of Contents

While pursuing a degree in forensic science, it is necessary to submit a thesis or dissertation on forensic research topics to obtain graduation. Basically, to prepare a research paper, a good topic is required the most. In case, you have no idea what topic to choose for your forensic science research paper, then without any hesitation, take a look at this blog. Here, we have suggested 180 outstanding forensic science research paper topics and ideas on various themes such as computer forensics, geo-forensics, ballistics, forensics psychology, and so on. In addition to that, we have also shared detailed information on how to pick a good forensic research paper topic for your academic work.

Explore this blog post and get more ideas for your forensic research paper writing.

Forensic Science Research Paper Topic Selection Steps

We know how hard it is to search and find a research topic. So, in order to help you get a better understanding, in this section, we have explained how to identify a perfect forensic science research topic.

In the research paper writing process, topic selection is the first step you should execute. Mostly, your instructors will share some essay prompts for you to choose from. But, at times, instead of giving essay prompts, they will ask you to bring a good research topic of your choice.

Forensic Science Research Topics

If you are asked to select a research topic on your own, then this is what you should do.

  • Identify your area of interest or your favorite research area.
  • From your favorite research area, gather all the possible research topics.
  • Brainstorm all the collected research topics.
  • Narrow down your topic list by eliminating the topic without research scope.
  • Search, analyze, and find one ideal research topic.

Tips for Choosing Forensic Science Research Topic

In general, for writing a forensic science research paper you can find plenty of research topics in books, journals, and online websites. Remember, finding an ideal research topic is not an easy job. That too, especially when you have many topics, it would be extremely difficult to pick one great research topic out of them.

Therefore, to make your topic selection easier, here we have shared some important tips for you to follow during forensic science research topic selection. Stick to them to find a good forensic science research topic.

  • Choose a topic from the research area that you have an interest in.
  • Instead of the commonly picked research area, select a topic from an ignored area of study in the field.
  • Give importance to the research topic that is interesting and informative for your readers.
  • Brainstorm all the ideas and eliminate the topics from which you cannot extract a proper thesis statement.
  • Avoid choosing a topic that is neither too wide nor too specific.
  • Pick a topic that has a broad research scope and enough information for discussion.
  • Select a frequently discussed topic and revisit the topic from a different angle rather than addressing the common or popular points.
  • Identify a research topic that highlights societal trends.
  • Choose a topic only if it has valid evidence or examples to explain and prove your key points.
  • Before finalizing the topic, check whether it satisfies the research paper writing instructions of your university or instructor.

Besides all these tips, additionally, you should consult your supervisor and get approval for the topic you have selected. Because, when you discuss with your professor, you can gain extraordinary ideas to improve the research work that in turn would help you score an A+ grade.

List of Forensic Science Research Topics and Ideas

If you have no idea what topic to choose for your forensic science research paper, then without any hesitation, use the below-suggested list of forensic science research topics. From the list, you can pick any research topic that is interesting for you to write about.

Top Forensic Science Research Questions

  • How to examine the age of inquiry using gene expression?
  • What do insects indicate about the murder scene?
  • Discuss the pros and cons of DNA typing from a crime-solving perspective.
  • What is the role of Gamma-ray radiography in crime-solving geomorphology studies?
  • Explain the forensic science behind fire investigations.
  • How do mathematics and statistics aid cases of forensic science?
  • Study the forensic science behind identifying forgery and counterfeiting.
  • Examine bloody fingerprints at the crime scene using fluid dynamics.
  • How to solve crimes by analyzing recorded gunshot sounds.
  • What is the role of Ground-penetrating radar systems in Geoforensics?
  • Analyze bullet firing direction and distances with glass fracture pattern.
  • What is the role of organic chemistry in forensic science for solving crimes?
  • How to create a forensic autopsy report?
  • Write about forensic psychology and law.
  • What is the use of 3D imaging for the visualization of footwear and tire impressions at the crime scene?
  • Qualifications or one to work as an independent forensic science consultant
  • Understanding the scientific and social environment of the criminal justice system
  • How the Enlightenment era contributed to the development of forensics
  • How to determine culprits behind fire and arson through forensic study
  • How to recognize the dental pattern of wild animals.

Best Forensic Science Research Topics

  • Explain the role of Forensic Genealogy in solving age-old cases.
  • Explain the different types of stab injuries from a forensic science perspective.
  • How to extract fingerprints from a crime scene?
  • How to catch a hacker using cyber forensics?
  • How to find whether fingerprints of identical twins are similar.
  • What is the role of Forensic Genealogy in solving age-old cases?
  • Discuss the ways to identify materials using Thin Layer and Paper Chromatography.
  • Analyze the various types of stab injuries from a forensic science viewpoint.
  • How to identify the dental pattern of wild animals.
  • Explain the uses and limitations of DNA Testing.
  • How does handwriting analysis help forensic science professionals?
  • A comparative study of sibling fingerprints with strangers.
  • What do the forensic science autopsy reports indicate?
  • How to track the victims of human trafficking using forensic science.
  • What does a blood spatter pattern indicate about a crime?

Awesome Forensic Science Research Paper Topics

  • How to find the cell type and body fluid through RNA-based methods.
  • Give an overview of crime scene analysis.
  • Prepare a comparative analysis of forensic autopsy and regular autopsy.
  • Explain the methods of DNA testing of unwilling subjects.
  • Explain how to detect Phishing through cyber forensics.
  • Describe how to extract fingerprints from a crime scene.
  • How to identify the face of a human through the remains of the skeleton?
  • Explain the methods and tools used by forensic pathologists.
  • Systems of Classifying handwritings in Forensic Science
  • Analyze the drawbacks in the development of forensic study
  • How to incorporate arguments into a forensic trial
  • DNA analysis advancements and their impact on forensic investigations.
  • The use of forensic entomology in estimating the time of death.
  • Investigating the effectiveness of forensic toxicology in detecting and analyzing drug-related crimes.

Impressive Forensic Science Research Paper Topics

  • Does a degree in forensic Science guarantee you a job in the Pentagon?
  • How to prepare the best fingerprint testing powder for unmatched result clarity?
  • What do hair and fiber say in forensic science crime cases?
  • How to identify the age, gender, and size of the victim using forensic anthropology?
  • Explain the role of forensic toxicology in analyzing the effects of anti-stress drugs on military members.
  • Prepare a case study of fatal intoxication through Isotonitazine.
  • Discuss the effect of automation and miniaturization in forensics.
  • Explain the impact of search engines and databases in the forensic study.
  • Discuss the factors that affect forensic document examination.
  • Write about the microbiome tools used for forensic science.
  • How is digital forensics a game-changer in solving homicides?
  • Explain the connection between medicine and entomology in solving criminal cases.
  • Analyze the role of crime scene photography in forensics.
  • How the Raman spectroscopy contribute to forensic science?
  • Discuss the essence of nanoparticles in forensic science.

Outstanding Forensic Science Research Topics

  • Why molecular imprinting is important for forensic study?
  • Explain the anthropological technique of anthropometry.
  • Discuss the effect of Opioids and other illegal drugs on the forensic study.
  • What are the mathematical principles used in the forensic study?
  • Describe the role of police science technicians in solving crimes.
  • How do forensic scientists collect, preserve, and analyze scientific evidence?
  • Is the curriculum for high school students on forensic Science effective enough?
  • Why next-generation sequencing technology is necessary for Forensics
  • Current utilization of the internet for forensic Science
  • The impact of search engines and databases in forensic study
  • How the type of weapon used can be confirmed in forensic ballistics?
  • How to identify victims through skeletal remains.
  • Explain how to find the age, gender, and size of the victim using forensic anthropology.

Captivating Forensic Science Research Ideas

  • Create a case study of fatal intoxication through Isotonitazine.
  • Write about drug detection timelines.
  • What is the role of forensic toxicology in analyzing the effects of anti-stress drugs on military members?
  • How to find trauma and disease history using forensic anthropology?
  • Explain the role of forensic psychology in assessing the probability rate of rape.
  • How to identify relations, family, and ancestry using forensic anthropology?
  • Explain the laws and principles guiding forensic science.
  • Is it possible to solve crimes with forensic dentistry?
  • Are standard hair tests accurate in racial estimation and solving crimes?
  • Explain the techniques of collecting DNA samples.
  • Explain Forensic Science and its key accomplishments
  • Discuss the importance of pattern evidence and fingerprints is forensics
  • Why and how DNA and biological evidence are used in forensic science?
  • Hereditary in fingerprints and pattern similarities among family members
  • Discuss the most effective techniques of collecting DNA samples through buccal cell collection in crime scenes or possibly violent subjects
  • Describe Forensic toxicology and its role in analyzing the effects of anti-stress drugs on military members
  • Analysis of the development and validation of the method used to assess the quality of friction skin impression for evidence
  • Develop a brief study on the composition of cling film used to package illegal drugs to separate drug traffickers from consumers
  • Discuss the most effective and efficient of collecting circumstantial evidence from the crime scene
  • How the 3D imaging method is used for the visualization of footwear and tire impressions at the crime scene?

Excellent Forensic Science Research Paper Topics

  • Discuss forensic anthropology in identifying family, relations, and ancestry
  • Forensic evidence – Definition, types, chain of custody, collection, and analysis
  • Forensic toxicology and its use in analyzing the effects of anti-stress drugs on military members
  • Discuss the use of Hair, Fibers, and Fingernails in forensic science to solve crime cases
  • Compare and contrast Vehicle Forensics and Social Network Forensics
  • Use of Drone Forensics in the United States
  • Discuss the use of LA-ICP-MS (Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry) in forensics
  • Alternative Light Photography and High-Speed Ballistics Photography: Explain
  • What is 3D Forensic Facial Reconstruction and how it is used in forensic investigations?
  • Discuss the use of Automated Fingerprint Identification (AFIS) and Magnetic Fingerprinting at crime scenes
  • Forensic Carbon-14 dating: Explain
  • Discuss the use of 3D technology in determining physical fit in forensic investigations
  • Overview of the technique of Mitochondrial DNA Analysis of skeletal remains
  • Provide insight into forensic microscopy
  • How blood spatter studies aid forensic science in solving crimes

Controversial Forensic Science Research Ideas

  • Write about Nanotechnology in forensic studies.
  • What are the different types of inks used by the forensics department?
  • Explain how the change in nature affects a crime site.
  • What is the role of paper spray mass spectrometry in detecting hazardous chemicals?
  • How to identify counterfeits?
  • Analyze the role of computer forensics in solving cybercrimes.
  • Discuss the history and evolution of forensic science.
  • Explain medical image security using digital watermarking.
  • How to synthesize powder to develop the best prints.
  • Explain the anatomy of bruises and what they convey about the tracker and the victim.
  • Is there a lack of scientific credibility in forensics?
  • Are the self-regulatory codes in forensic science sufficient enough?
  • Discuss the link between forensic tools and the underlying science.
  • Do some forensic science methods contribute to racial profiling?
  • What are the limitations of ballistic and hair analysis?

Unique Forensic Science Research Topics

  • Is forensic geomorphology helpful in solving crimes?
  • Describe the effect of forensic psychology on instances of Military rape.
  • What is the role of Trace DNA in criminal investigations?
  • Is the use of forensic DNA ethical?
  • How the forensic science make the dead speak?
  • Study the religious considerations when conducting forensics.
  • What are the limitations of scientific and professional forensic knowledge?
  • Explain the role of detectives in a forensic science investigation.
  • What are the effects of movies and TV series on forensic science?
  • Explain the reliable methods of evidence preservation for long cases.
  • Assess the use of simulation in forensic nursing.
  • Explain the impact of visual color comparisons in forensic science.
  • Research the future of forensic science in wildlife.
  • Investigate sudden cardiac death using forensic Science.
  • Discuss the effect of infrared spectroscopy imaging on forensic science.
  • Handprint dimensions for Sex classifications – the ABC model of forensic science
  • Evaluate the importance of using the amino acid fingerprint test at crime scenes
  • Discuss the relationship between Forensic Science and the Standards Act of 2012
  • How to select a hypothesis and test common misinterpretations in forensics?
  • Analyze the role of HD pictures in crime investigation and scene reconstruction

Popular Forensic Science Research Topics

  • What is the biggest problem for application forensics?
  • What are ethical guidelines for forensic scientists?
  • Why is research important in forensic science?
  • What is the most reliable crime scene evidence?
  • Investigate criminal justice and forensic science criminology
  • Write about forensic tools.
  • How often do forensic methods solve crimes?
  • Why is forensic science unique?
  • How forensic accounting is used in forensic science?
  • Discuss the role of forensic DNA analysis

Trending Research Topics on Forensic Science

  • How to use controlled substances in a forensic study?
  • Assess the effectiveness of forensic science in criminal law.
  • Perform a contextual analysis of digital stratigraphy in forensic science.
  • How to find the culprits behind fire and arson through forensic study.
  • Develop unique strategies to detect and identify new drugs.
  • Discuss the latest technologies used to identify body fluids.
  • What is the impact of laser scanners, photogrammetry, and drones in forensic science?
  • Write about the latest trends in forensic odontology.
  • Explain the role of hacking software in tracing digital footprints online.
  • What are the latest technologies used to conduct bloodstain pattern analysis?
  • Examine the amino acid fingerprint test.
  • Explain the latest forensic science techniques used to identify illicit drugs.
  • Write about the latest techniques in forensic science to catch murderers.
  • What are the methods of assessing authentic audio recordings using different voice apps?
  • Explain how soil mapping helps to solve crimes.
  • Evaluate the importance of applying the methodological approach to the use of IRMS in forensic Science
  • Discuss why forensic scientists must seek consent before proceeding with a crime investigation
  • The 5G technology may be the game-changer in the field of forensic Science: Explain
  • Computational forensics is raising safety issues: Explain with justification
  • Discuss the ethical dilemmas across different fields of forensic science

Final Words

Out of the list of the 180 forensic science research paper topics and ideas suggested in this blog, choose any topic that is impressive to you and your readers. Usually, in academic writing, the topic plays a major role in elevating grades. So, be careful about the topic you choose. In case, you need help with forensic science research paper topic selection and writing, reach out to us quickly. We have subject experts in our team to offer premium-quality forensic science assignment writing help online at a reasonable cost. For the requirements you send us, our scholarly writers will compose and dispatch plagiarism-free forensic science research papers prior to the submission date and will assist you in securing top grades. Moreover, from our professionals, you can also receive Forensic Accounting Assignment Help along with 24/7 live chat support.

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Recent advances in forensic science research

For immediate release, acs news service weekly presspac: april 20, 2022.

Forensic scientists collect and analyze evidence during a criminal investigation to identify victims, determine the cause of death and figure out “who done it.” Below are some recent papers published in ACS journals reporting on new advances that could help forensic scientists solve crimes. Reporters can request free access to these papers by emailing  newsroom@acs.org .

“Insights into the Differential Preservation of Bone Proteomes in Inhumed and Entombed Cadavers from Italian Forensic Caseworks” Journal of Proteome Research March 22, 2022 Bone proteins can help determine how long ago a person died (post-mortem interval, PMI) and how old they were at the time of their death (age at death, AAD), but the levels of these proteins could vary with burial conditions. By comparing bone proteomes of exhumed individuals who had been entombed in mausoleums or buried in the ground, the researchers found several proteins whose levels were not affected by the burial environment, which they say could help with AAD or PMI estimation.

“Carbon Dot Powders with Cross-Linking-Based Long-Wavelength Emission for Multicolor Imaging of Latent Fingerprints” ACS Applied Nanomaterials Jan. 21, 2022 For decades, criminal investigators have recognized the importance of analyzing latent fingerprints left at crime scenes to help identify a perpetrator, but current methods to make these prints visible have limitations, including low contrast, low sensitivity and high toxicity. These researchers devised a simple way to make fluorescent carbon dot powders that can be applied to latent fingerprints, making them fluoresce under UV light with red, orange and yellow colors.

“Proteomics Offers New Clues for Forensic Investigations” ACS Central Science Oct. 18, 2021 This review article describes how forensic scientists are now turning their attention to proteins in bone, blood or other biological samples, which can sometimes answer questions that DNA can’t. For example, unlike DNA, a person’s complement of proteins (or proteome) changes over time, providing important clues about when a person died and their age at death.

“Integrating the MasSpec Pen with Sub-Atmospheric Pressure Chemical Ionization for Rapid Chemical Analysis and Forensic Applications” Analytical Chemistry May 19, 2021 These researchers previously developed a “MasSpec Pen,” a handheld device integrated with a mass spectrometer for direct analysis and molecular profiling of biological samples. In this article, they develop a new version that can quickly and easily detect and measure compounds, including cocaine, oxycodone and explosives, which can be important in forensics investigations.

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Top Forensic Science Research Topics

Forensic Science Research Topics

Forensic science is a discipline or branch of knowledge that applies scientific methodology/techniques and procedures used to solve criminal occurrences. This study area covers a vast field varying from forensic psychology to computer forensic and doctoral research. College students should use scientific developments and forensic science innovations to resolve criminal offenses.

For students who specialize in forensic science, it is conventional for them to write essays, research papers, or thesis. One of the major hurdles to cross is how to select a perfect topic from the wide array of forensic science research topics. To make things easy for you, you can work on something that focuses on a shunned area of study in the field or go in for a disputed topic

Whatever topic you choose to work on, you should state your research questions/topics and have a well-detailed body and a reasonable conclusion. This can land you a high score. Below is a list of some fascinating forensic science research topics which would give you an upper hand in writing a good essay and getting good grades.

As a leading dissertation consulting service , we specialize in assisting students in forensic science with their essays, research papers, and theses. Our experienced consultants can help you choose a captivating topic, refine your research questions, and craft a strong conclusion. With our support, you can achieve academic success. Explore our services today and access a list of fascinating forensic science research topics to enhance your writing and grades.

Forensic Science Research Topics

Here is a list of forensic topics for research that you will enjoy working on!

  • Culprit identification through skeletal remains
  • Using forensic dentistry to solve crimes: the good, the bad, and the ugly
  • The correlation between legal ethics, forensic dentistry, and crime-solving
  • Forensic attestations – Types, a chain of custody, collection, and analysis
  • Identifying relations, ancestry, and family using forensic anthropology
  • The use of forensic psychology in evaluating the probability and the incidence of the rate of rape
  • Forensic science – what hair and fibers can tell us about crime cases
  • Poison chemistry – reliability and accuracy of results
  • Forensic ballistics – what bullets can tell about crimes
  • Forensic evidence: How to assemble the criminal jigsaw pieces.

Forensic Psychology Research Topics

Forensic psychology is psychology related to the law. The field includes the implementation of sciences to its system. Also, it deals with the conjoining of human habits/characteristics and criminal law. Psychologist in the field of forensic helps to unriddle specific data in a case, data such as who must have committed the crime, what must have propelled the criminal to make such kind of act, and how the felon must have strategized the situation.

Therefore, forensic psychology topics provide a range of profundity regarding the level of academic studies being initiated. Below is a list of topics in forensic psychology that can be of help:

  • Tracking the behaviors of lawbreakers
  • Should the death penalty be encouraged?
  • Victim reaction to crime
  • Can we rely on the memory of testifiers?
  • Sentencing and imprisonment practices
  • Do the FBI play important roles in forensic science?
  • How to approach settled differences in a DNA in forensics
  • Using animals for forensic science research: possible pros and cons
  • Incorporating arguments into forensic trials: better/more effective methods
  • Ethics and morals and how they affect forensic crime results

Hot Topics in Digital Forensics

Here is a list of digital forensics topics from the latest developments of digital forensics!

  • The effects of technology on building digital shreds of evidence
  • The function of biological pieces of evidence and DNA in the science of forensic
  • How evidence of fingerprint and pattern contribute to forensics
  • Explain the impact of Opioids and other illegal drugs on the study of forensic
  • How to trace evidence with the use of forensic
  • Conduct an analysis of evidence from patterns and impressions
  • The effect of virtual reality and simulations on forensic study
  • How to determine the criminals behind fire and arson through the study of forensic
  • The effect of automation and miniaturization in forensic anthropology
  • Forensic science and the importance of nanoparticles in the field.

Forensic science is a compilation of applied disciplines that draws from the branch of science. The forensic science discipline is complex and involves methods that range from DNA analysis to pattern recognition. Below are some forensic topics for research

  • Chemical Sciences: Why is forensic chemistry unique?
  • The paradigms of forensic science: A critical diagnosis
  • Forensic science and the accuracy of age estimation
  • Possible research challenges faced in the forensic medicine field
  • Forensic science and survey courses rendered
  • The genetic approach to forensic science and prevalent problems
  • Contribution of forensic science to efforts of wildlife conservation.
  • How can racial estimation be determined more accurately?
  • The effect of natural changes on the scene of a crime and accuracy of forensics
  • How grand innovations affect and challenge the forensic community

Forensic Science Topics Research Paper

Do you have a research paper to write on forensic science? You will surely need some reliable topics for that research paper to make it excellent. Here is a list of forensic science research paper topics!

  • Family members and fingerprints pattern similarities: a reliable source of tracing?
  • Forensic anthropology and the identification of trauma and disease history
  • Forensic anthropology: The identification of size, age, and gender of victims
  • Fingerprint testing powders: Better formulation for clearer results
  • How to gather forensic pieces of evidence: A closer look
  • The pivotal roles played by DNA methylation in forensic science research
  • Historical Setbacks in forensic study development: Analysis and a closer look at the causes
  • The interconnectivity between chemistry and traced evidence
  • Forensic document examination: A better approach
  •  Redefining forensic research: A newer outlook

Forensic Research Topics

Do you need some excellent forensic research topics? Well, look no further! Here are some excellent forensic topics for research for you!

  • A closer look at the laws and principles guiding forensic science
  • What roles does forensic Genealogy play in solving age-old cases?
  • Postmortem findings and forensic anthropology: A review
  • What does the future hold for the field of forensics: Job opportunities and upcoming specialization?
  • Identifying blunt force trauma in victims
  • Independent forensic consultants: how reliable are their qualifications in forensic science?
  • How forensic science has developed since its inception: A look at challenges and advantages.
  • Geographic forensic medicine and its important roles
  • The function of DNA methylation in forensic science
  • The interconnectivity between forensic medicine and clinical research

Forensic Anthropology Research Topics

Below are some forensic topics for research under anthropology

  • Area of the crime: what information they can pass across to us?
  • How do professionals get traced evidence?
  • Professional blood pattern analysis: Who an individual is and how they can be of help?
  • The juxtaposing of soil in forensic anthropology
  • Rigor Mortis as the cognitive factor of the individual death
  • Information Footprints from a crime site can pass across
  • The significance of the scene of the crime
  • The construction of an individual outlines characteristics
  • The aggravation of Intentional death as a result of coerced drowning
  • Hair samples that is not the property of the victim as a possible lead to the attacker

Forensic Science Topics for Presentation

Do you want to make a presentation on an aspect of forensic science? Below are some detailed forensic science presentation topics you could pick from

  • The reconstruction of the human face makes use of the residues of their skeleton
  • Having a detailed knowledge of various methods used in forensic anthropology
  • Techniques to acquire the DNA test of an unwilling subject
  • Recognizing cell types and body fluids through RNA based techniques
  • The category of flies that assembles on an inanimate body signifying the time of death
  • Techniques to recognize the skeletal remains of human subject
  • Techniques used in educing fingerprints from a crime setting
  • The function of forensic science in tracing recipients of human trafficking
  • Strategies and apparatus used by forensic pathologists
  • The significance of the Muscid fly to forensic science

Computer Forensics Research Topic

Computer forensic is a developing field in criminology to which is an impact on other disciplines most notable in the legal system. Students who are interested in the study of computer forensic can construct a thesis that probes through the subject and its relationship to evolving aspects of criminology and the legal system.

Some digital forensics research topics will also help to give a better understanding. Below are some digital forensic topics for you!

  • Digital forensic and occurrence response
  • The employment of digital forensic to internet crime analysis and inquiry
  • The satisfactory and spiteful sides of digital forensic
  • A survey evaluation of digital forensics as equipment assisting a criminal investigation
  • The necessity for standardization and accreditation in digital forensic
  • Enriching the quality of digital forensic examination reports
  • The analysis of networks in digital forensics
  • Equipment used in digital forensics
  • Examining and validating the digital forensic report
  • The analysis of network in digital forensic

Forensics Debate Topics

Debate forensics speech topics are.

  • The innovative nature of cybercrime
  • The credibility of geomorphological forensic in solving crimes
  • Soil mapping great assistance in providing solutions to crimes
  • The credibility of audio recording in forensic science
  • The essence of an eyewitness statement
  • The dilemma that accompanied juvenile judgment
  • Nanotechnology has an insight in the field of forensic
  • Digital forensic has been of great use in solving cyber crimes

National Forensics League Topics

Some national forensic speech topics may include.

  • The effect of age evaluation in forensic science
  • A thorough recognition of the paradigms of forensic science
  • Discuss the procedures of sanctioning forensic science laboratories
  • The effect of visual color comparison in forensic science
  • Parasites being one of the fastest Agent of Decomposition

Forensic Chemistry Research Topics

Chemistry forensic research paper topics may include:

  • Assessment of the amino acid fingerprint test
  • An intuition of Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry
  • An evaluation of water-soluble paper for forensic segregation
  • Are techniques of detection super-sensitive that they could lead to an error in conviction
  • An evaluation of authenticity regarding the crime, it’s situation, and the people involved
  • Discuss the process involved in the analysis of Y-chromosome
  • Analyze a usual day in the office of a forensic chemist
  • Expatiate on the limitation of using an environmental microscope
  • The use of atomic force microscope in the science of forensic
  • The function of paper spray mass Spectrometry in the recognition of perilous Chemicals

Forensic Medicine Thesis Topics

Forensic medicine deals mostly with examining and assessing individuals who have been wounded or may have passed away as a result of external or unnatural causes, such as suicide, poisoning, motor accidents, and other various forms of violence.

Examples of topics under forensic medicine thesis are:

  • Analysis of spinal sustaining damages in fatal road accident
  • Examination of sexual violence unnatural deaths
  • Analysis of suicidal death among adolescents
  • An analysis of snakebite occurrence admitted in the hospital
  • A study of eventual suicidal death among females
  • Study of lethal poisoning cases leading to gross stomach mucosal appearances
  • Study of homicidal deaths
  • Analysis of death due to thermal burns
  • Examination of patient’s with CRANIO -CEREBRAL injuries
  • An examination of dental eruption in children within the age group of 14 -16

Easy Forensic Science Research Topics

Are you in search of easy ways to find Forensic science topics for a research paper? Bother no more! Here are some topics just for you!

  • Discuss the importance of a forensic scientist giving a Precise testimony
  • An assessment of microscopic vetting techniques
  • The influence of private companies organizing forensic science
  • Validation to work as an independent specialist in the field of forensic science
  • The usefulness of digital Forensic in Solving homicide cases
  • Acquiring a proper Knowledge of the scientific and social surroundings of the criminal justice system
  • Disciplines of criminal justice and the law that guides forensic
  • Reasons why a vast number of forensic scientists work in forensic laboratories or morgues
  • The methods in which forensic craft out objective facts with the use of scientific knowledge
  • Ways forensic science assist in the analysis of physical evidence

So here we are! 120+ forensic science research topics just for you! Choose the topic that resonates with you the most and put in your best in the research or outsource it to an expert writing company! Don’t hesitate to reach a professional dissertation consultant and increase your chances of success!

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Recent advances in forensic biology and forensic DNA typing: INTERPOL review 2019–2022

Associated data.

This review paper covers the forensic-relevant literature in biological sciences from 2019 to 2022 as a part of the 20th INTERPOL International Forensic Science Managers Symposium. Topics reviewed include rapid DNA testing, using law enforcement DNA databases plus investigative genetic genealogy DNA databases along with privacy/ethical issues, forensic biology and body fluid identification, DNA extraction and typing methods, mixture interpretation involving probabilistic genotyping software (PGS), DNA transfer and activity-level evaluations, next-generation sequencing (NGS), DNA phenotyping, lineage markers (Y-chromosome, mitochondrial DNA, X-chromosome), new markers and approaches (microhaplotypes, proteomics, and microbial DNA), kinship analysis and human identification with disaster victim identification (DVI), and non-human DNA testing including wildlife forensics. Available books and review articles are summarized as well as 70 guidance documents to assist in quality control that were published in the past three years by various groups within the United States and around the world.

1. Introduction

This review explores developments in forensic biology and forensic DNA analysis of biological evidence during the years 2019–2022. In some cases, there may be overlap with 2019 articles mentioned in the previous INTERPOL review covering 2016 to 2019 [ 1 ]. This review includes books and review articles, published guidance documents to assist in quality control, rapid DNA testing, using law enforcement DNA databases plus investigative genetic genealogy DNA databases along with privacy/ethical issues, forensic biology and body fluid identification, DNA extraction and typing methods, mixture interpretation involving probabilistic genotyping software (PGS), DNA transfer and activity level evaluations, next-generation sequencing (NGS), DNA phenotyping, lineage markers (Y-chromosome, mitochondrial DNA, X-chromosome), new markers and approaches (microhaplotypes, proteomics, and microbial DNA), kinship analysis and human identification with disaster victim identification (DVI), and non-human DNA testing including wildlife forensics.

Multiple searches, using the Scopus (Elsevier) and Web of Science (Clarivate) databases, were conducted in the first half of 2022 with “forensic” and “DNA” or “biology” and “2019 to 2022” as search options. Over 4000 articles were returned with these searches. Through visual examination of titles and authors, duplicates were removed, and articles sorted into 32 subcategories to arrive at a list of almost 2000 publications that were supplemented throughout the remainder of the year as this review was being prepared. The tables of contents for non-indexed journals, such as WIRES Forensic Science , Journal of Forensic Identification , and Forensic Genomics were also examined to locate potentially relevant articles.

For example, a Scopus search conducted on June 13, 2022, using “forensic DNA” and “2019 to 2022” found a total of 3059 documents. Table 1 lists the top ten journals from this search. The Forensic Science International: Genetics Supplement Series (see row #4 in Table 1 ) provides the proceedings of the International Society for Forensic Genetics (ISFG) meeting held in Prague in September 2019. This volume contains 914 pages with 347 articles (although only 172 showed up in the Scopus search) that are freely available at https://www.fsigeneticssup.com /[ 2 ]. Thus, searches conducted with one or even multiple databases (e.g., Scopus and Web of Science) may not be comprehensive or exhaustive.

Top ten journals with forensic DNA articles published from 2019 to 2022 based on a Scopus search on June 13, 2022.

1.1. Books, special issues, and review articles of note

Books published during the period of this review relating to forensic biology and forensic DNA include Essential Forensic Biology, Third Edition [ 3 ], Principles and Practices of DNA Analysis: A Laboratory Manual for Forensic DNA Typing [ 4 ], Forensic DNA Profiling: A Practical Guide to Assigning Likelihood Ratios [ 5 ], Forensic Practitioner's Guide to the Interpretation of Complex DNA Profiles [ 6 ], Silent Witness: Forensic DNA Evidence in Criminal Investigations and Humanitarian Disasters [ 7 ], Mass Identifications: Statistical Methods in Forensic Genetics [ 8 ], Probability and Forensic Evidence: Theory, Philosophy, and Applications [ 9 ], Interpreting Complex Forensic DNA Evidence [ 10 ], Understanding DNA Ancestry [ 11 ], Understanding Forensic DNA [ 12 ], and Handbook of DNA Profiling [ 13 ]. The 2022 Handbook of DNA Profiling spans two volumes and 1206 pages with 54 chapters from 115 contributors representing 17 countries.

Over the past three years, several special issues on topics related to forensic biology were published in Forensic Science International: Genetics and Genes . These special issues were typically collated virtually rather than physically as invited articles were published online over some period of time and then bundled together virtually as a special issue. Some of these review articles or a set of special issue articles are open access (i.e., the authors paid a publication fee so that the article would be available online for free to readers).

During the time frame of this INTERPOL DNA review, FSI Genetics published two special issues: (1) “Trends and Perspectives in Forensic Genetics” (editor: Manfred Kayser) 1 with nine review and two original research articles published between September 2018 and January 2019, and (2) “Forensic Genetics – Unde venisti et quo vadis?” [Latin for “where did you come from and where are you going?”] (editor: Manfred Kayser) with nine articles published in 2021 and early 2022 and likely two more before the end of 2022. Topics for review articles in these special issues include DNA transfer [ 14 ], probabilistic genotyping software [ 15 ], microhaplotypes in forensic genetics [ 16 ], investigative genetic genealogy [ 17 ], forensic proteomics [ 18 ], distinguishing male monozygotic twins [ 19 ], and using the human microbiome for estimating post-mortem intervals and identifying individuals, tissues, or body fluids [ 20 , 21 ]. All of these topics will be discussed later in this article.

A Genes special issue “Forensic Genetics and Genomics” (editors: Emiliano Giardina and Michele Ragazzo) 2 published 11 online articles plus an editorial from April 2020 to January 2021 while another Genes special issue “Forensic Mitochondrial Genomics” (editors: Mitch Holland and Charla Marshall) 3 compiled 11 articles from February 2020 to April 2021. An “Advances in Forensic Genetics” Genes special issue (editor: Niels Morling) 4 included 25 articles shared between April 2021 and May 2022. In July 2022, the Advances in Forensic Genetics articles were compiled as a 518-page book. 5 Other Genes special issues in development or forthcoming covering aspects of forensic DNA and requesting potential manuscripts by late 2022 or early 2023 include “State-of-the-Art in Forensic Genetics” (editor: Chiara Turchi), 6 “Trends in Population Genetics and Identification—Impact on Anthropology (editors: Antonio Amorim, Veronica Gomes, Luisa Azevedo), 7 “Identification of Human Remains for Forensic and Humanitarian Purposes: From Molecular to Physical Methods” (editors: Elena Pilli, Cristina Cattaneo), 8 “Improved Methods in Forensic and DNA Analysis” (editor: Marie Allen), 9 “Forensic DNA Mixture Interpretation and Probabilistic Genotyping” (editor: Michael Coble) 10 , and “Advances in Forensic Molecular Genetics” (editors: Erin Hanson and Claire Glynn). 11 There has been a proliferation of review articles and special issues in this field in the past several years!

A new journal Forensic Science International: Reports was launched in November 2019. As of June 2022, it has published 89 articles involving DNA, most of which are descriptions of population genetic data. Likewise, a June 27, 2022, PubMed search with “forensic DNA” and the journal “Genes” found 88 articles – many of which are part of the previously mentioned special issues.

1.2. Guidance documents

Numerous documentary standards and guidance documents related to forensic DNA have been published by various organizations around the world. Table 2 lists 70 such documents released in the past three years (2019–2022) in the United States, UK, Australia, and the European Union.

Guidance documents related to forensic DNA published from 2019 to 2022. The titles are hyperlinked to available documents. Abbreviations: FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation), CODIS (Combined DNA Index System), SWGDAM (Scientific Working Group on DNA Analysis Methods), NGS (next generation sequencing), US DOJ (United States Department of Justice), ULTR (Uniform Language for Testimony and Reports), AABB (Association for the Advancement of Blood and Biotherapies), ASB (Academy Standards Board), OSAC (Organization of Scientific Area Committees for Forensic Science), UKFSR (United Kingdom Forensic Science Regulator), ENFSI (European Network of Forensic Science Institutes), NIFS (National Institute of Forensic Science), ISFG (International Society for Forensic Genetics).

1.2.1. SWGDAM, FBI, and other US DOJ activities

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Laboratory funds the Scientific Working Group on DNA Analysis Methods (SWGDAM) 12 to serve as a forum for discussing, sharing, and evaluating forensic biology methods, protocols, training, and research. In addition to creating guidelines on various topics, SWGDAM, which meets semiannually in January and July, provides recommendations to the FBI Director on the Quality Assurance Standards (QAS) used to assess U.S. forensic DNA laboratories involved in the National DNA Index System (NDIS) that perform DNA databasing and forensic casework. New versions of the QAS became effective July 1, 2020.

SWGDAM work products from the timeframe of 2019–2022 (see Table 2 ) include QAS audit and guidance documents, mitochondrial DNA analysis and short tandem repeat (STR) interpretation guideline revisions related to next-generation sequencing (NGS), training and Y-chromosome interpretation guidelines, a Y-chromosome Haplotype Reference Database (YHRD) update for U.S. laboratories, and reports on investigative genetic genealogy and Y-screening of sexual assault evidence kits. These documents are all accessible online. 13

In January 2022, the FBI produced a 13-page guide 14 on rapid DNA testing describing booking station applications and their vision for future integration of crime scene sample analysis and the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS), which builds on a joint position statement published in July 2020 by leaders of U.S. and European groups [ 22 ]. In addition, the FBI has shared guidance on their website for non-CODIS use of rapid DNA testing with law enforcement applications 15 and considerations for court. 16

United States Department of Justice (US DOJ) Uniform Language for Testimony and Reports (ULTRs), 17 contain three ULTRs for the forensic DNA discipline that became effective in March 2019: autosomal DNA with probabilistic genotyping, mitochondrial DNA, and Y-STR DNA. USDOJ also released an interim policy on investigative genetic genealogy in November 2019 [ 23 ] along with an opinion piece in the journal Science calling for responsible genetic genealogy [ 24 ].

Other agencies within US DOJ, namely the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) and the National Institute of Justice (NIJ), published a guide for prosecutors on triaging forensic evidence [ 25 ] and best practices for improving DNA laboratory process efficiency [ 26 ]. A 200-page report to Congress on the needs assessment of forensic laboratories and medical examiner/coroner offices was released in December 2019 calling for $640 million annually in additional funding to support U.S. forensic efforts [ 27 ].

In September 2021, the Forensic Technology Center of Excellence (FTCOE), which is funded by NIJ, published a 29-page implementation strategy on next-generation sequencing for DNA analysis that was written by the NIJ Forensic Laboratory Needs Technology Working Group (FLN-TWG) [ 28 ]. In May 2022, FTCOE released a 50-page landscape study examining technologies and automation for differential extraction and sperm separation used in sexual assault investigations [ 29 ]. An introduction to forensic genetic genealogy was released in September 2022 [ 30 ].

The FTCOE also published a human factors forensic science sourcebook 18 in March 2022 through open access articles in the journal Forensic Science International: Synergy . This sourcebook, which has general applicability rather than being specific to forensic DNA analysts, includes an overview article [ 31 ] along with articles on personnel selection and assessment [ 32 ], the benefits of committing errors during training [ 33 ], how characteristics of human reasoning and certain situations can contribute to errors [ 34 ], stressors that impact performance [ 35 ], and the impact of communication between forensic analysts and detectives using a new metaphor [ 36 ].

1.2.2. OSAC and ASB activities

The Organization of Scientific Area Committees for Forensic Science (OSAC) 19 is congressionally-funded and administered by the Special Programs Office within the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). OSAC consists of a governing board and over 600 members and associates organized into seven scientific area committees (SACs) and 22 subcommittees. The Biology SAC is divided into human and wildlife forensic biology activities. The Human Forensic Biology Subcommittee 20 focuses on standards and guidelines related to training, method development and validation, data analysis, interpretation, and statistical analysis as well as reporting and testimony for human forensic serological and DNA testing. The Wildlife Forensics Subcommittee 21 works on standards and guidelines related to taxonomic identification, individualization, and geographic origin of non-human biological evidence based on morphological and genetic analyses.

The Academy Standards Board (ASB) 22 is a wholly owned subsidiary of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) and was established as a standards developing organization (SDO). In 2015, ASB was accredited as an SDO by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). The ASB DNA Consensus Body, with a membership consisting of practitioners, researchers, and lawyers, develops standards and guidelines related to the use of DNA in legal proceedings. Many of the documents developed by ASB were originally proposed OSAC standards or guidelines.

The OSAC Registry 23 is a repository of high-quality and technically-sound standards (both published and proposed) that are intended for implementation in forensic science laboratories. As of July 2022, the OSAC Registry contains 11 standards published by ASB as well as two (2) proposed OSAC standards or best practice recommendations related to human forensic biology. Another four ASB standards and two proposed OSAC standards related to wildlife forensic biology are on the OSAC Registry. The ASB standards issued in the past three years related to human forensic biology cover interpretation and comparison protocols, training in various parts of the process, and validation of forensic serological and DNA analysis methods as well as probabilistic genotyping systems (see Table 2 for names of these documents). A number of other documents 24 related to serological testing methods, assigning propositions for likelihood ratios in forensic DNA interpretations, validation of forensic DNA methods and software, familial DNA searching, management and use of quality assurance DNA elimination databases, setting thresholds, evaluative forensic DNA testimony, and training in use of statistics are in development within OSAC and ASB.

Additional work products of OSAC include (1) a lexicon 25 with 3282 records (although multiple records may exist for the same word, e.g., there are five definitions provided for “validation” from various sources), (2) a 35-page technical guidance document 26 on human factors in validation and performance testing that describes key issues in designing, conducting, and reporting validation research, (3) a listing of research and development needs in forensic science 27 including 18 identified by the OSAC Human Forensic Biology Subcommittee during their deliberations ( Table 3 ), and (4) process maps for several forensic disciplines including a 42-page depiction of current practices and decisions in human forensic DNA analysis released in May 2022 [ 37 ]. As a visual representation of critical steps and decision points, a process map is intended to help improve efficiencies and reduce errors, and highlight gaps where further research or standardization would be beneficial. Process maps can assist with training new examiners and enable development of specific laboratory policies or help identify best practices for the field.

Research and development needs in forensic biology as identified by the OSAC Human Forensic Biology Subcommittee (as of July 2022, see https://www.nist.gov/osac/osac-research-and-development-needs ).

1.2.3. UK Forensic Science Regulator

The UK Forensic Science Regulator (UKFSR) oversees forensic science efforts in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. In March 2021, the Regulator released the seventh issue 28 of the Codes of Practice and Conduct for forensic science providers and practitioners in the criminal justice system. This 114-page document, which has been updated every few years, provides the overall framework for forensic science activities in the UK with other supporting guidance documents on specific areas like DNA analysis or general tasks like validation. In September 2020, a number of the Regulator documents were revised and reissued. As noted in Table 2 (see rows with documents containing “Issue 1” in the title), new guidance documents were also released in the past few years on sexual assault examinations, development of evaluative opinions, proficiency testing for DNA mixture interpretation, Y-STR profiling, DNA relationship testing, and methods employing rapid DNA testing devices. Table 2 lists 20 guidance documents pertinent to forensic biology from the UKFSR.

1.2.4. European Union and Australia

The European Network of Forensic Science Institutes (ENFSI) DNA Working Group published two documents in the past three years: one on DNA database management and the other on training of staff in forensic DNA laboratories (see Table 2 ). A best practice manual for human forensic biology and DNA profiling is also under development.

The Australian National Institute of Forensic Science (NIFS) published three documents of relevance to forensic biology on case record review, empirical study design, and transitioning technology from the laboratory to the field (see Table 2 ).

1.2.5. Other international efforts

The Association for the Advancement of Blood and Biotherapies (AABB) 29 published the 15th edition of their Standard for Relationship Testing Laboratories, which became effective on January 1, 2022. This documentary standard was developed by the AABB Relationship Testing Standards Committee and applies to laboratories accredited for paternity testing and other forms of genetic relationship assessment.

The International Society for Forensic Genetics (ISFG) DNA Commission 30 published two articles during the timeframe of this INTERPOL review (see Table 2 ). In 2020, guidelines and considerations were published on evaluating DNA results under activity level propositions [ 38 ]. In addition, the state of the field regarding interpretation of Y-STR results was examined along with different approaches for haplotype frequency estimation using population data – with the Discrete Laplace approach being recommended [ 39 ]. Future ISFG DNA Commission efforts will address STR allele sequence nomenclature and phenotyping.

2. Advancements in current practices

This section (Section 2 ) is intended to be law enforcement and practitioner-focused through examination of advances in current practices. The following section (Section 3 ) is intended to be researcher-focused through emphasis on emerging technologies and new developments. In this section, topics specifically covered include rapid DNA analysis, use of DNA databases to aid investigations (including familial searching, investigative genetic genealogy, genetic privacy and ethical concerns, and sexual assault kit testing), body fluid identification, DNA extraction and typing methods, and DNA interpretation at the sub-source and activity level.

2.1. Rapid DNA analysis

Rapid DNA instruments that provide integrated “swab-in-profile-out” results in 90 min or less can be used in police booking station environments and assist investigations outside of a traditional laboratory environment. These instruments were initially designed for analysis of buccal swabs to help speed processing of reference samples associated with criminal cases. Such samples are expected to contain relatively large quantities of DNA from a single contributor. Some attempts to extend the range of sample types to low quantities of DNA or mixtures have been published with various levels of success (see Table 4 ). Researcher and practitioners from Australia [ [40] , [41] , [42] ], Canada [ 43 ], China [ 44 ], Italy [ 45 ], Japan [ 46 , 47 ], and the United States [ [48] , [49] , [50] , [51] , [52] , [53] , [54] , [55] , [56] , [57] ] have contributed to an increased understanding of rapid DNA testing capabilities and limitations.

Summary of 20 rapid DNA instrument validation and evaluation studies published from 2019 to 2022. Abbreviations: A-Chip (arrestee cartridge, designed for high-quantity DNA samples), I-Chip (investigative cartridge, designed for low-quantity DNA samples), ACE (arrestee cartridge with GlobalFiler STR markers), RapidINTEL (uses 32 rather than 28 PCR cycles to increase success with low-quantity DNA samples). A-Chip and I-Chip amplify the FlexPlex set of 23 autosomal STRs, three Y-STRs, and amelogenin [ 51 ]. ACE and RapidINTEL utilize the GlobalFiler set of 21 autosomal STRs, one Y-STR, one Y-chromosome InDel, and amelogenin.

The Accelerated Nuclear DNA Equipment (ANDE) 6C (ANDE, Longmont, CO, USA) and the RapidHIT ID (Thermo Fisher Scientific, Waltham, MA, USA) are the current 31 commercially available rapid DNA systems. Each system consists of a swab for introducing the sample, a cartridge or biochip with pre-packed reagents, the instrument, and analysis software with an expert system for automated STR allele calling. Different sample cartridges can be run on each system depending on the sample type and expected quantity of DNA.

For ANDE, the arrestee cartridge (A-Chip), can accommodate up to five samples and is intended for relatively high quantities of DNA typically collected from reference buccal swabs, while the investigative cartridge (I-Chip), can process up to four samples and is intended for lower quantities of DNA that might be present in casework or disaster victim identification samples. Both ANDE cartridges use the FlexPlex27 STR assay that tests 23 autosomal STR loci, three Y-chromosome STRs, and amelogenin to generate data compatible with DNA databases around the world [ 51 ]. The RapidHIT ID ACE cartridge and RapidINTEL cartridge serve similar purposes as the ANDE A-Chip and I-Chip using GlobalFiler Express kit markers (21 autosomal STRs, DYS391, a Y-chromosome insertion/deletion marker, and amelogenin) instead of the FlexPlex assay. The ACE sample cartridge uses buccal swabs while the EXT sample cartridge processes DNA extracts [ 56 ]. Sensitivity is enhanced in the RapidINTEL cartridge by increasing the number of PCR cycles from 28 to 32 and decreasing the lysis buffer volume from 500 μL to 300 μL compared to the ACE cartridge parameters [ 46 ].

With rapid DNA testing's swab-in and answer-out integrated configuration, limited options exist for testing conditions (e.g., either A-Chip or I-Chip with ANDE). Therefore, users should evaluate performance for the sample types they desired to routinely test in their specific environment. Table 4 summarizes recently published studies containing rapid DNA assessments.

National DNA Index System (NDIS) approval has been provided by the FBI Laboratory for accredited forensic DNA laboratories to use either the ANDE 6C or RapidHIT ID Systems (A-Chip and ACE cartridges only) 32 with eligible reference mouth swabs. As noted in Table 2 , the FBI.gov website contains three documents related to rapid DNA testing: “Non-CODIS Rapid DNA Considerations and Best Practices for Law Enforcement Use” (7-pages), “Rapid DNA Testing for Non-CODIS Uses: Considerations for Court” (5-pages), and “A Guide to All Things Rapid DNA” (13-pages) in January 2022 to provide information on the topic to law enforcement agencies.

The ENFSI DNA Working Group, SWGDAM, and an FBI Rapid DNA Crime Scene Technology Advancement Task Group co-published a position statement on the use of rapid DNA testing from crime scene samples [ 22 ]. These groups emphasized the need to have future rapid DNA systems with (1) methods to identify low quantity, degradation, and inhibition as well as meeting the human quantification requirements shared by SWGDAM and others, (2) the ability to export analyzable raw data for analysis or reanalysis by trained and qualified forensic DNA analysts, (3) an on-board fully automated expert system to accurately flag single-source or mixture DNA profiles requiring analyst evaluation, (4) improved peak height ratio balance (per locus and across loci) for low-quality and mixture samples “through enhancements in extraction efficiencies, changes in cycling parameters, and/or changes in STR kit chemistries,” and (5) published developmental validation studies on a wide variety of forensic evidence type samples with “data-supported recommendations regarding types of forensic evidence that are suitable and unsuitable for use with Rapid DNA technology” [ 22 ].

With a likely increase in the capabilities and the availability of rapid DNA systems, investigators will need to decide whether to use this capability onsite in specific situations or to send collected samples to a conventional forensic laboratory for processing at a later time. A group in the Netherlands collaborated with the New York City Police Department Crime Scene Unit and Evidence Collection Team to explore a decision support system [ 60 ]. In this study, participants were informed that rapid DNA testing was less sensitive compared to laboratory analysis and that the sample would be consumed, but that results from rapid DNA testing could identify a suspect within 2 h as opposed to waiting an average of 45 days for the laboratory results [presumably due to sample backlogs]. They were also told that a DNA profile obtained with rapid DNA would be acceptable in court. In the end, “>90% of the participants (85 out of 91) saw added value for using a Rapid DNA device in their investigative process …” with “a systematic approach, which consists of weighing all possible outcomes before deciding to use a Rapid DNA analysis device” [ 60 ]. The authors note that for such an approach to be successful “knowledge on DNA success rates [with various evidence types] is necessary in making evidence-based decisions for Rapid DNA analysis” [ 60 ].

A group in Australia performed a cost-benefit analysis of a decentralized rapid DNA workflow that might exist in the future with instruments placed at police stations around their country [ 61 ]. A virtual assessment considered all reference DNA samples collected during a two-month time period at 10 participating police stations in five regions of Australia. Processing times at the corresponding DNA analysis laboratories were calculated based on when the sample was received compared to the day when a DNA profile was obtained for that sample. From the survey conducted, it was estimated that up to 80,000 reference DNA samples are currently processed each year in forensic DNA laboratories across Australia [ 61 ].

Consumable costs for conventional DNA testing reagents in Australia were found to range from $17 to $35 whereas the rapid DNA consumable costs were estimated to be $100 per sample along with an anticipated $100,000 instrument cost per police station. Of course, the rate of use is expected to vary based on the number of reference samples collected in that jurisdiction. Since rapid DNA instruments utilize consumable cartridges with expiration dates, it was estimated that a police station would need to process six DNA samples per week to avoid having to discard an expired cartridge and thus increase the overall cost of their rapid DNA testing efforts. The authors of this study conclude “that routine laboratory DNA analysis meets the current needs for the majority of cases … It is anticipated that while the cost discrepancy between laboratory and rapid DNA processing remains high, the uptake of the technology in Australia will be limited [at least for a police booking station scenario]” [ 61 ].

Rapid DNA technology can be used in a variety of contexts including some that extend beyond traditional law enforcement. Seven distinct use contexts for rapid DNA capabilities have been described [ 62 ]: (1) evidence processing at or near crime scenes to generate leads for confirmation by a forensic laboratory, (2) booking or detection stations to compare an individual's DNA profile to a forensic database while the individual is still in custody, (3) disaster victim identification to permit rapid DNA processing of a victim's family members during their visit to family assistance centers when filing missing persons reports, (4) missing persons investigations to quickly process unidentified human remains and/or family reference samples to generate leads for confirmation by a forensic laboratory, (5) border security to develop DNA data from detainees for comparison to indices of prior border crossers while the individual is still in custody, (6) human trafficking and immigration fraud detection to permit immigration officials to verify family relationship claims, and (7) migrant family reunification to allow immigration officials to verify parentage claims and reunite family members separated at the border. Social and ethical considerations have been proposed for each of these use contexts in terms of data collection, data access and storage, and oversight and data protection [ 62 ].

One study [ 47 ] evaluating buccal swabs and mock disaster victim identification samples drew an important conclusion worth repeating here: “The Rapid DNA system provides robust and automated analysis of forensic samples without human review. Sample analysis failure can happen by chance in both the Rapid DNA system and conventional laboratory STR testing. While re-injection of PCR product is easily possible in the conventional method, this is not an option with the Rapid DNA system. Accordingly, the Rapid DNA system is a suitable choice but should be limited to samples that can easily be collected again if necessary or to samples that are of sufficient amount for repeated analysis. Application of this system to valuable samples such as those related to casework need to be considered carefully before analysis.”

2.2. Using DNA databases to aid investigations (national databases, familial searching, investigative genetic genealogy, genetic privacy & ethical concerns, sexual assault kit testing)

Forensic DNA databases can aid investigations by demonstrating connections between crime scenes, linking a previously enrolled DNA profile from an arrestee or convicted offender to biological material recovered from a crime scene, or aiding identification of missing persons through association of remains with biological relatives. Establishment of these databases requires significant investments over time to enroll data from crime scenes and potential serial offenders or unidentified human remains and relatives of missing persons. This section explores issues around national DNA databases, familial searching, investigative genetic genealogy, and genetic privacy and ethical concerns.

A systematic review regarding the effectiveness of forensic DNA databases looked at 19 articles published between 1985 and 2018 and found most studies support the assumption that DNA databases are an effective tool for the police, society, and forensic scientists [ 63 ]. Recommendations have been proposed to make cross-border exchange of DNA data more transparent and accountable with the Prüm system that enables information sharing across the European Union [ 64 ]. An analysis of news articles discussing the use of DNA testing in family reunification with migrants separated at the U.S.-Mexico border has been performed [ 65 ], and a standalone humanitarian DNA identification database has been proposed [ 66 ]. Aspects of international DNA kinship matching were explored to aid missing persons investigations and disaster victim identification processes [ 67 ]. A business case was presented for expanded DNA indirect matching using additional genetic markers, such as Y-chromosome STRs, mitochondrial DNA, and X-chromosome STRs, to reveal previously undetected familial relationships [ 68 ].

Approaches to transnational exchange of DNA data include (1) creation of an international DNA database, (2) linked or networked national DNA databases, (3) request-based exchange of data, and (4) a combination of these [ 69 ]. For example, the INTERPOL DNA database 33 contains more than 247,000 profiles contributed by 84 member countries. The I-Familia global database assists with missing persons identification based on international DNA kinship matching. 34

2.2.1. National DNA databases

Since the United Kingdom launched the first national DNA database in 1995, national DNA databases continue to be added in many countries including Brazil [ 70 , 71 ], India [ 72 ], Pakistan [ 73 , 74 ], Portugal [ 75 ], and Serbia [ 76 ]. A survey of 15 Latin American countries found that 13 of them had some kind of DNA database [ 77 ]. The opinions of 210 prisoners and prison officials in three Spanish penitentiary centers were also collected regarding DNA databases [ 78 ].

The effectiveness of databases has been debated over the years. Seven key indicators were used in a 2019 examination of the effectiveness of the UK national DNA database. These indicators included (1) implementation cost – the financial input required to implement the database system, (2) crime-solving capability – the ability of the database to assist criminal justice officials in case resolution, (3) incapacitation effect – the ability of the database to reduce crime through the incapacitation of offenders, (4) deterrence effect – the preventative potential of the database through deterrence of individuals from committing crime, (5) privacy protection – protection of the privacy or civil liberty rights of individuals, (6) legitimacy – compliance of the databasing system to the principle of proportionality, and (7) implementation efficiency – the time and non-monetary resource required to implement the database system [ 79 ].

A follow-up article concluded: “Available evidence shows that while DNA analysis has contributed to successful investigations in many individual cases, its aggregate value to the resolution of all crime is low” [ 80 ]. The systematic review of 19 articles on DNA databases cited previously noted “the expansion of DNA databases would only have positive effects on detection and clearance if the offender were already included in the database” [ 63 ]. When previous offenders are not already in a law enforcement DNA database to provide a hit to a crime scene profile, efforts are increasingly turning to familial searching and investigative genetic genealogy as described in the following sections.

2.2.2. Familial DNA searching

Familial DNA searching (FDS) extends the traditional direct matching of STR profiles within law enforcement databases to search for potential close family relationships, such as a parent or sibling, of a profile in the database. 35 FDS typically uses Y-STR lineage testing to narrow the set of candidate possibilities along with other case information such as geographic details of the crime and age of the person(s) of interest. For example, FDS helped solve murder cases in Romania [ 81 ] and China [ 82 ] by locating the perpetrator through a relative in the DNA database. A survey of 103 crime laboratories in the United States found that 11 states use FDS while laboratories in 24 states use a similar but distinct practice of partial matching [ 83 ].

The expansion of the number of STRs from 15 to 20 or 21 helps distinguish between true and false matches during a DNA database search by reducing the number of FDS adventitious matches [ 84 ]. Another study noted that the choice of allele frequencies affects the rate at which non-relatives are erroneously classified as relatives and found that using ancestry inference on the query profile can reduce false positive rates [ 85 ]. New Y-STR kits have been developed to assist with familial searching [ 86 , 87 ]. FDS of law enforcement databases differs from investigative genetic genealogy in two important ways – the genetic markers and the databases used for searching [ 88 , 89 ].

2.2.3. Investigative genetic genealogy

In recent years when national DNA databases fail to generate a lead to a potential person of interest, law enforcement agencies have started to utilize the capabilities of investigative genetic genealogy (IGG), also called forensic genetic genealogy (FGG) or forensic investigative genetic genealogy (FIGG), as an approach to locate potential persons of interest in criminal or missing persons cases. For example, a pilot case study in Sweden used IGG to locate the perpetrator of a double murder from 2004 who had evaded detection despite 15 years of various investigation efforts including more than 9000 interrogations and mass DNA screenings of more than 6000 men [ 90 ]. Hardly a week goes by without mention in the global media of another cold case being solved with IGG. Since the arrest of Joseph DeAngelo in April 2018 identified as the infamous Golden State Killer using IGG, hundreds of cold criminal and unidentified human remains cases have been resolved [ 91 ].

IGG involves examination of about 600,000 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), rather than the 20 or so STRs used in conventional forensic DNA testing, to enable associations of relatives as distant as third or fourth cousins [ 17 ]. IGG relies on a combination of publicly accessible records and the consent of individuals who have uploaded their genetic genealogy DNA profiles to genetic genealogy databases [ 92 ]. Multiple reviews and research articles have been published describing current IGG methods, knowledge, and practice along with the effectiveness and operational limits of the technique [ 17 , 30 , [93] , [94] , [95] , [96] , [97] ]. IGG works best with high-quality, single-source DNA samples. A case study involving whole genome sequencing of human remains from a 2003 murder victim found that it was possible to perform IGG for identification of the victim in this situation [ 98 ].

The four main direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic genealogy companies, 23andMe (Mountain View, CA), Ancestry (Salt Lake City, UT), FamilyTree DNA (Houston, TX), and My Heritage (Lehi, UT), have DNA data from over 41 million individuals 36 as of July 2022 [ 97 ]. Individuals can upload their DTC data to GEDmatch, which is a DNA comparison and analysis website launched in 2010 and purchased in 2019 by Verogen (San Diego, CA). Law enforcement IGG searches are currently permitted with DTC data for individuals who opt into the GEDmatch database or do not opt out of the FamilyTree DNA database [ 99 , 100 ]. Currently most DTC genetic genealogy data comes from the United States and individuals of European origin. A UK study found that 4 of 10 volunteer donors could be identified with IGG including someone of Indian heritage demonstrating that under the right circumstances individuals of non-European origin can be identified [ 101 ].

As noted previously in Section 1.2.1 , the U.S. Department of Justice released an interim policy guide to forensic genetic genealogical DNA analysis and searching [ 23 ], and the FBI Laboratory's chief biometric scientist published an editorial in Science calling for responsible genetic genealogy [ 24 ]. SWGDAM has provided an overview of IGG that emphasizes the approach being used only after a regular STR profile search of a law enforcement DNA database fails to produce any investigative leads [ 102 ]. Policy and practical implications of IGG have been explored in Australia [ 103 ] and within the UK as part of probing the perceptions of 45 professional and public stakeholders [ 104 , 105 ].

Four misconceptions about IGG were examined by several members of the SWGDAM group: (1) when law enforcement conducts IGG in a genetic genealogy database, they are given special access to participants' SNP profiles, (2) law enforcement will arrest a genetic genealogy database participant's relatives based on the genetic information the participant provided to the database, (3) IGG necessarily involves collecting and testing DNA samples from a larger number of innocent persons than would be the case if IGG were not used in the investigation, and (4) IGG is or soon will be ubiquitous because there are no barriers to IGG that limit the cases in which it can be conducted [ 106 ].

In May 2021, the state of Maryland passed the first law in the United States and in the world that regulates law enforcement's use of DTC genetic data to investigate crimes. A policy forum article in Science explained how this new law provides a model for others in this area [ 107 ]. Six important features were described: (1) requiring judicial authorization for the initiation of an IGG search, (2) affirming individual control over the investigative use of one's genetic data, (3) establishing strong protections for third parties who are not suspects in the case, (4) ensuring that IGG is available to prove either guilt or innocence, (5) imposing consequences and fines for violations, and (6) requiring annual public reporting and review to enable informed oversight of IGG methods. However, as of September 2022, these regulations have not been implemented apparently due to lack of resources with these unfunded requirements. 37

Efforts have been made to raise awareness among defense attorneys about how IGG searches can potentially invade people's privacy in unique ways [ 108 ]. Important perspectives on ethical, legal, and social issues have been offered along with directions for future research [ 109 ]. These concerns about data privacy, public trust, proficiency and agency trust, and accountability have led to a call for standards and certification of IGG to address issues raised by privacy scholars, law enforcement agencies, and traditional genealogists [ 110 , 111 ] and for an ethical and privacy assessment framework covering transparency, access criteria, quality assurance, and proportionality [ 112 ].

2.2.4. Genetic privacy and ethical concerns

Two important topics are considered in this section: (1) do the genetic markers used in traditional forensic DNA typing reveal more than identity and therefore potentially impact privacy of the individuals tested? and (2) are samples collected and tested according to ethical principles?

Forensic DNA databases utilize STR markers that were intentionally selected to avoid phenotypic associations. An extensive review of the literature examined 107 articles associating a forensic STR with some genetic trait and found “no demonstration of forensic STR variants directly causing or predicting disease” [ 113 ]. A study of the potential association of 15 STRs and 3 facial characteristics on 721 unrelated Han Chinese individuals also found “scarcely any association between [the] STRs with studied facial characteristics” [ 114 ].

In 2021, the American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) published a standard for authentication of human cell lines using DNA profiling with the 13 CODIS STR markers [ 115 ]. This use of forensic STR markers for biospecimen authentication led a bioethicist and a law professor to write a policy forum article in Science titled “Get law enforcement out of biospecimen authentication” [ 116 ]. The authors of this policy forum believe that using the same genetic markers could potentially: (1) undermine efforts to recruit research participants from historically marginalized and excluded groups that are underrepresented in research, (2) risk drawing law enforcement interest in gaining access to these research data, and (3) impose additional potential harms on already vulnerable populations, particularly children. Instead they advocate for using non-CODIS STRs or a new SNP assay to distinguish biospecimens in repositories, something done recently at the Coriell Institute for Medical Research with six new STR markers [ 117 ]. A responsive letter to the editor regarding this policy forum article expressed that “their proposal could potentially create artificial silos between genomic data in the justice system and in biomedical research, making it inefficient and ultimately counterproductive” [ 118 ]. The authors of the original article responded that “the risk of attracting law enforcement interest to research data increases when the data are available in a recognizable way” [ 119 ].

Modern scientific research seeks to protect the dignity, rights, and welfare of research participants by following ethical requirements. Six forensic science journals over the time period of 2010–2019 were examined for their reporting of ethical approval and informed consent in original research using human or animal subjects [ 120 ]. These journals were Forensic Science International: Genetics , Science & Justice , Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine , the Australian Journal of Forensic Sciences , Forensic Science International , and the International Journal of Legal Medicine . A total of 3010 studies that described research on human or animal subjects and/or samples were selected from these journals with only 1079 articles (36%) reporting that they had obtained ethical approval and 527 articles (18%) stating that informed consent was sought either by written or verbal agreement. The authors of this study noted that reported compliance with ethical guidelines in forensic science research and publication was below what is considered minimal reporting rates in biomedical research and encouraged widespread adoption of the 2020 guidelines described below [ 120 ].

Guidelines and recommendations for ethnical research on genetics and genomics of biological material were jointly adopted and published in Forensic Science International: Genetics [ 121 ] and Forensic Science International: Reports [ 122 ]. These guidelines utilize the following principles as prerequisites for publication in these two journals as well as the Forensic Science International: Genetics Supplement Series : (1) general ethics principles that are regulated by national boards and represent widely signed international agreements, (2) universal declarations that require implementations in state members, such as the World Medical Association Declaration of Helsinki biomedical research on human subjects, and (3) universal declarations and principles drafted by independent organizations that have been widely adopted by the scientific community. This includes the U.S. Federal Policy for the Protection of Human Subjects (“Common Rule”) that was revised in 2017 (with a compliance date delayed to January 21, 2019). 38

Submitted manuscripts must provide the following supporting documentation to demonstrate compliance with the publication guidelines: (1) ethical approval in the country of [sample] collection by the appropriate local ethical committee or institutional review board, (2) ethical approval in the country of experimental work according to local legislation; if material collection and experimentation are conducted in different countries, both (1) and (2) are required, (3) template of consent forms in the case of human material as approved by the relevant ethical committee, and (4) approved export/import permits as applicable. Authors must declare in their submitted manuscript that these guidelines have been strictly followed [ 121 , 122 ].

Forensic genetic frequency databases, such as the Y-chromosome Haplotype Reference Database (YHRD), have been challenged over the ethics of DNA holdings, specifically of samples originating from the minority Muslim Uyghur population in western China [ 123 , 124 ]. A survey of U.S. state policies on potential law enforcement access to newborn screening samples found that nearly one-third of states permit these samples or their related data to be disclosed to or used by law enforcement and more than 25% of states have no discernible policy in place regarding law enforcement access [ 125 ].

A framework for ethical conduct of forensic scientists as “lived practice” has been proposed, and three case studies were discussed in terms of decision-making processes involving forensic DNA phenotyping and biographical ancestry testing, investigative genetic genealogy, and forensic epigenetics [ 126 ]. An ethos for forensic genetics involving the values of integrity, trustworthiness, and effectiveness has likewise been described [ 127 ].

2.2.5. Sexual assault kit testing

Unsubmitted or untested sexual assault kits (SAKs) may exist in police or laboratory evidence lockers for many years leading to rape kit backlogs that can spark community outrage when discovered. A number of articles have been published in the past three years describing success rates with examining SAKs and the policies surrounding them. For example, an evaluation of 3422 unsubmitted SAKs in Michigan found 1239 that produced a DNA profile eligible for upload into CODIS with 585 yielding a CODIS hit [ 128 ]. In addition, results from a groping and sexual assault case were presented to support the expansion of touch DNA evidence in these types of cases [ 129 ].

To assess success rates in their jurisdiction, the Houston Police Department randomly selected 491 cases of over 6500 previously unsubmitted sexual assault kits [ 130 ]. Of these, 336 cases (68%; 336/491) screened positive for biological evidence; a DNA profile was developed in 270 cases (55%; 270/491) with 213 (43%; 213/491) uploaded to CODIS; and 104 (21% total; 104/491 or 49% of uploaded profiles; 104/213) resulted in a CODIS hit. The statute of limitation had expired in 44% of these CODIS-hit cases, which prohibited arrests and prosecution. Victims were unwilling to participate in a follow-up investigation in another 25% of these cases. When the data were compiled for the publication, charges had been filed in only one CODIS-hit case [ 130 ].

Sexual assault cases can be difficult to prosecute as victims may be re-traumatized when a cold case is reopened. The authors of one study shared: “A key to successful pursuit of cold case sexual assaults is to have a well-crafted victim-notification plan and a victim advocate as part of the investigative team” [ 131 ]. Interviews with eight assistant district attorneys provided important prosecutors’ perspectives on SAK cases, the development of narratives to explain the evidence in a case, and the decision on whether a case should be pursued or what further investigative activities may be needed [ 132 ]. The authors concluded: “Our findings suggest that forensic evidence does not magically lead to criminal justice outcomes by itself, but must be used thoughtfully in conjunction with other evidence as part of a well-considered strategy of investigation and prosecution” [ 132 ].

Discussing a data set from Denver, Colorado where 1200 sexual assault cold cases with testable DNA samples were examined and 600 cases were processed through the laboratory resulting in 97 CODIS hits, 55 arrests and court filings, and 48 convictions, the authors conclude that the cost of the Denver cold case sexual assault program was worth the investment [ 131 ].

From December 2015 to July 2018, the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office (Florida, USA) researched more than 5500 cases and evaluated evidence from previously untested sexual assault kits spanning a 43-year period at a cost of over $1 million. Of the 1558 sexual assaults examined, there were 686 cases (44%; 686/1558) with CODIS-eligible profiles, 261 CODIS hits, and 5 arrests when the article was written in mid-2019 [ 133 ]. The Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office also helped develop a backlog reduction effort through creating a biological processing laboratory within the Boca Raton Police Services Department [ 134 ]. With this joint effort from 2016 to 2018, the total average turnaround time decreased from 30 days to under 20 days with the 3489 DNA profiles entered into CODIS resulting in 1254 associations and 965 investigations aided. Important takeaway lessons include the value of (1) engaging legal counsel early to outline necessary legal procedures and the timeline, (2) bringing all stakeholders “to the table” early to discuss expectations, as well as legal and operational responsibilities, and (3) creating a realistic timeline with a comprehensive memorandum of understanding so all parties have agreed to their roles and responsibilities [ 134 ].

From 275 previously untested sexual assault kits submitted for DNA testing in one region of Central Brazil, a total of 176 profiles were uploaded to their DNA database resulting in 60 matches (34%; 60/176) and 32 assisted investigations (18%; 32/176) with information about the suspect identity or the connection of serial sexual assaults assigned to the same individual [ 135 ]. Another study from the same region of Brazil examined 2165 cases and noted that 13% (286/2165) had information regarding the victim-offender relationship with 63% (179/286) being stranger-perpetrated rapes and 37% (107/286) being non-stranger [ 136 ]. The authors then summarize: “Hits were detected only with stranger-perpetrated assaults ( n  = 41), which reinforces that DNA databases are fundamental to investigate sexual crimes. Without DNA typing and DNA databases, probably these cases would never be solved” [ 136 ].

Given that laboratories have limited resources and need to prioritize their efforts, some business analytics have been applied to SAK testing. An analysis of the potential societal return on investment (ROI) for processing backlogged, untested SAKs reported a range of 10%–65% ROI depending on the volume of activity for the laboratory conducting the analysis [ 137 ]. An evaluation of data from 868 SAKs tested by the San Francisco Policy Department Criminalistics Laboratory during 2017–2019 found that machine learning algorithms outperformed forensic examiners in flagging potentially probative samples [ 138 ].

An examination of 5165 SAKs collected in Cuyahoga County (Ohio, USA) from 1993 through 2011 found 3099 with DNA of which 2127 produced a CODIS hit, with 803 investigations leading to an indictment and eventually 78 to trial along with 330 pleas [ 139 ]. The authors report a “cost savings to the community of $26.48 million after the inclusion of tangible and intangible costs of future sexual assaults averted through convictions” and advocate for “the cost-effectiveness of investigating no CODIS hit cases and support an ‘investigate all’ approach” [ 139 ]. Likewise an assessment of 900 previously-untested SAKs from Detroit (Michigan, USA) found that “few of the tested variables were significant predictors of CODIS hit rate” and “testing all previously-unsubmitted kits may generate information that is useful to the criminal justice system, while also potentially addressing the institutional betrayal victims experienced when their kits were ignored” [ 140 ].

A group in the Philippines described an integrated system to improve their SAK processing [ 141 ]. With an optimized workflow in Montreal, Canada, SAK processing median turnaround time decreased from 140 days to 45 days with a foreign DNA profile being obtained in 44% of cases [ 142 ]. In addition, this group examined casework data to guide resource allocation through identifying the likelihood of specific types of cases and samples yielding foreign biological material [ 142 ]. Decision trees and logistic regression models were also used to try and predict whether or not SAKs will yield a CODIS-eligible DNA profile [ 143 ]. Finally, direct PCR and rapid DNA approaches to streamline SAK testing were reviewed [ 144 ].

2.3. Forensic biology and body fluid identification

The basic workflow for biological samples in forensic examinations typically involves a visual examination of the evidence, a presumptive and/or confirmatory test for a suspected body fluid (e.g., the amylase assay for saliva), and DNA analysis and interpretation [ 145 ]. Body fluid identification (BFID), in particular with blood, saliva, semen, or vaginal fluid stains, provides valuable evidence in many investigations that can aid in the resolution of a crime [ 146 ]. Many of these BFID tests are presumptive and not nearly as sensitive as modern DNA tests meaning that “obtaining a DNA profile without being able to associate [it] with a body fluid is an increasingly regular occurrence” and “it is necessary and important, especially in the eyes of the law, to be able to say which body fluid that the DNA profile was obtained from” [ 147 ].

A number of approaches are being taken to improve the sensitivity and specificity of BFID in recent years including DNA methylation [ [148] , [149] , [150] , [151] , [152] , [153] , [154] , [155] , [156] , [157] , [158] , [159] , [160] , [161] ], messenger RNA (mRNA) [ [162] , [163] , [164] , [165] , [166] ], microRNA (miRNA) [ 167 ], protein mass spectrometry for seminal fluid detection [ 168 ], and microbiome analysis [ 169 , 170 ]. Although many new techniques are being described in the scientific literature, traditional methods for semen identification are still widely used in regular forensic casework [ 171 ].

When using RNA assays, DNA and RNA are co-extracted from examined samples [ 172 , 173 ]. Some tests may only distinguish between two possible body fluids, such as saliva and vaginal fluid [ 174 ], while other tests may attempt to distinguish six forensically relevant body fluids – vaginal fluid, seminal fluids, sperm cells, saliva, menstrual blood, and peripheral blood – although not always as clearly as desired [ 175 ]. BFID assays must also cope with mixed body fluids [ 176 ].

2.4. DNA collection and extraction

The process of obtaining a DNA profile begins with collecting a biological sample and extracting DNA from it. A review of recent trends and developments in forensic DNA extraction focused on isolating male DNA in sexual assault cases, using portable rapid DNA testing instruments, recovering DNA from difficult samples such as human remains, and bypassing DNA extraction altogether with direct PCR methods [ 177 ].

2.4.1. Touch evidence and fingerprint processing methods

Various studies have explored the compatibility of common fingerprint processing methods with DNA typing results [ [178] , [179] , [180] , [181] , [182] , [183] , [184] , [185] , [186] , [187] , [188] ]. For example, DNA recovery was explored after various steps in three different latent fingerprint processing methods – and fewer treatments were judged preferable with a 1,2-indanedione-zinc (IND/Zn) method appearing least harmful to downstream DNA analysis [ 187 ]. A different study found improved recovery of DNA from cigarette butts following latent fingerprint processing with 1,8-diazafluoren-9-one (DFO) compared to IND/Zn [ 179 ].

DNA losses were quantified with mock fingerprints deposited on four different surfaces to better understand DNA collection and extraction method performance [ 189 ]. The application of Diamond Dye has been shown to enable visualization of cells deposited on surfaces without interfering with subsequent PCR amplification and DNA typing [ [190] , [191] , [192] ].

It was possible to recover DNA profiles from clothing that someone touched for as little as 2 s [ 193 ]. DNA sampling success rates from car seats and steering wheels were studied [ 194 ] and recovery of DNA from vehicle surfaces using different swabs was explored [ 195 ]. In addition, the double-swab technique, where a wipe using a wet swab is followed by a wipe with a dry one, was revisited with an observation that for non-absorbing surfaces, the first web swab yielded 16 times more DNA than the second dry swab [ 196 ]. Swabs of cotton, flocked nylon, and foam reportedly provided equivalent DNA recoveries for smooth/non-absorbing surfaces, and an optimized swabbing technique involving the application of a 60-degree angle and rotating the swab during sampling improved DNA yields for cotton swabs [ 197 ].

2.4.2. Results from unfired and fired cartridge cases

Ammunition needs to be handled to load a weapon and thus DNA from the handler may be deposited onto the ammunition via touch [ 198 ]. Important progress has been made in recovering DNA from ammunition such as unfired cartridges or fired cartridge cases (FCCs) that may remain at a crime scene after a weapon has been fired. Trace quantities of DNA recovered from firearm or FCC surfaces has been used to try and link results to gun-related crimes.

A 2019 review of the literature regarding obtaining successful DNA results from ammunition examined collection techniques, extraction methodologies, and various amplification kits and conditions [ 199 ]. A direct PCR approach detected more STR alleles than methods using DNA extraction, and the authors noted that mixtures are commonly observed from gun surfaces, bullets, and cartridges in both controlled experimental conditions and from actual casework evidence and they encourage careful interpretation of these results [ 200 ]. The development of a crime scene FCC collector was combined with a new DNA recovery method that uses a rinse-and-swab technique [ 201 ].

Research studies and review articles have considered factors affecting DNA recovery from cartridge cases and the impact of metal surfaces on DNA recovery [ [202] , [203] , [204] , [205] , [206] , [207] , [208] , [209] ]. Recovery of mtDNA from unfired ammunition components has been assessed for sequence quality [ 210 ].

2.5. DNA typing

Following collection of DNA evidence and its extraction from biological samples, the typical typing process involves DNA quantitation, PCR amplification of STR markers, and STR typing using capillary electrophoresis. Direct PCR avoids the DNA extraction and quantitation steps, which can improve recovery of trace amounts of DNA [ 211 , 212 ]. Whole genome amplification prior to STR analysis has also been examined to aid recovery of degraded DNA [ 213 ] and to enable profiling of single sperm cells [ 214 ].

PCR amplification using STR typing kits can sometimes produce artifacts that impact DNA interpretation including missing (null) alleles [ 215 ], false tri-allelic patterns [ 216 ] or extra peaks when amplified in the presence of microbial DNA [ [217] , [218] , [219] ].

Applied Biosystems Genetic Analyzers have been the primary means of performing multi-colored capillary electrophoresis for many years [ 4 ]. First experiences with Promega's new Spectrum Compact CE System have recently been reported [ 220 ]. A number of new research and commercial STR kits have been introduced in recent years along with the publication of at least 24 validation studies ( Table 5 ). These validation studies typically follow guidelines outlined by the ENFSI DNA Working Group, 39 SWGDAM 40 , or a 2009 Chinese National Standard. 41

STR kits assessed with 24 published validation studies during 2019–2022.

A report on the first two years of submissions to the STRidER 42 (STRs for Identity ENFSI Reference) database for online allele frequencies revealed that 96% of the submitted 165 autosomal STR datasets generated by CE contained errors, showing the value of centralized quality control and data curation [ 245 ].

2.6. DNA interpretation at the source or sub-source level

The designation of STR alleles and genotypes of contributors in DNA mixtures are key aspects of DNA interpretation [ 246 , 247 ]. Electropherograms generated by CE instruments exhibit both STR alleles and artifacts that complicate data interpretation. Efforts are underway to understand and model instrumental artifacts [ [248] , [249] , [250] , [251] ] as well as biological artifacts of the PCR amplification process such as STR stutter products [ 252 , 253 ]. Machine learning approaches are being applied to classify artifacts versus alleles with the goal to eventually replace manual data interpretation with computer algorithms [ [254] , [255] , [256] , [257] ]. One such program, FaSTR DNA, enables potential artifact peaks from stutter, pull-up, and spikes to be filtered or flagged, and a developmental validation has been published examining 3403 profiles generated with seven different STR kits [ 258 ].

2.6.1. DNA mixture interpretation

Forensic evidence routinely contains contributions from multiple donors, which result in DNA mixtures. A number of approaches have been taken and advances made in DNA mixture interpretation [ 259 ]. These include probabilistic genotyping software [ 15 ], using genetic markers beyond traditional autosomal STR typing [ 260 ], or separating contributor cells and performing single-cell analysis [ [261] , [262] , [263] , [264] , [265] , [266] ].

In June 2021, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) released a draft report regarding the scientific foundations of DNA mixture interpretation [ 267 ]. This 250-page document described 16 principles that underpin DNA mixture interpretation, provided 25 key takeaways, and cited 528 references. NIST also began a Human Factors Expert Working Group on DNA Interpretation in February 2020 and plans to release a report with recommendations in 2023.

Assessment of the number of contributors (NoC) is a critical element of accurate DNA mixture interpretation. For example, the LRs relating to minor contributors can be reduced when the incorrect number of contributors is assumed [ 268 ]. Allele sharing among contributors to a mixture and masking of alleles due to STR stutter artifacts can lead to inaccurate NoC estimates based on simply counting the number of alleles at a locus. Different approaches and software programs have been used for NoC estimation [ [269] , [270] , [271] , [272] , [273] , [274] , [275] ]. Total allele count (TAC) distribution via TAC curves showed an improvement in manually estimating the number of contributors with complex mixtures [ 276 ]. Sequence analysis of STR loci expands the number of possible alleles compared to CE-based length measurements and thus can improve NoC estimates [ 277 ].

In the past three years, validation studies have been performed with a number of probabilistic genotyping software (PGS) systems including EuroForMix [ 278 ], DNAStatistX [ 279 , 280 ], TrueAllele [ 281 ], STRmix [ 282 ], Statistefix [ 283 ], Mixture Solution [ 284 ], Kongoh [ 285 ], and MaSTR [ 286 , 287 ]. Developers of EuroForMix, DNAStatistX, and STRmix provided a review of these systems [ 288 ]. Multi-laboratory assessments have been described [ 289 , 290 ] and likelihood ratios obtained from EuroForMix and STRmix compared [ [291] , [292] , [293] , [294] ]. With a growing literature in this area, there are many other articles that could have been cited.

2.7. DNA interpretation at the activity level

DNA interpretation at the source or sub-source level helps to answer the question of who deposited the cell material, whether attribution for the result can be made to a specific cell type (i.e., source level) or simply to the DNA if no attribution can be made to a specific cell type (i.e., sub-source level). Activity-level propositions seek to answer the question of how did an individual's cell material get there. Interpretation at the activity level is sometimes referred to as evaluative reporting [ 295 , 296 ].

In 2020, the ISFG DNA Commission [ 38 ] discussed the why, when, and how to carry out evaluative reporting given activity level propositions through providing examples of formulating these propositions. These Commission recommendations emphasize that reports using a likelihood ratio based on case-specific propositions and relevant conditioning information should highlight the assumptions being made and that “it is not valid to carry over a likelihood ratio from a low level, such as sub-source, to a higher level such as source or activity propositions … because the LRs given sub-source level propositions are often very high and LRs given activity level propositions will often be many orders of magnitude lower” [ 38 ]. Another recommendation specifies that “scientists must not give their opinion on what is the ‘most likely way of transfer’ (direct or indirect), as this would amount to giving an opinion on the activities and result in a prosecutor's fallacy (i.e., give the probability that X is true). The scientists' role is to assess the value of the results if each proposition is true in accordance with the likelihood ratio framework (the probability of the results if X is true and if Y is true)” [ 38 ] (emphasis in the original). This DNA Commission provided 11 recommendations and 4 considerations that should be studied carefully by those who implement activity-level DNA interpretation.

2.7.1. DNA transfer and persistence studies

To evaluate DNA findings given activity-level propositions it is important to understand the factors and variables that may impact DNA transfer, persistence, prevalence, and recovery (DNA-TPPR). These factors include history of contacting surfaces, biological material type, quantity and quality of DNA, dryness of biological material, manner and duration of contact, number and order of contacts, substrate type(s), time lapses and environment, and methods and thresholds used in the forensic DNA laboratory to generate the available data [ 297 ].

Three valuable review articles were published on this topic in 2019 [ 14 , 28 , 299 ]. Following a comprehensive January 2019 review that cited [ 298 ] references on DNA-TPPR [ 14 ], the same authors provided an update in November 2021 on recent progress towards meeting challenges and a synopsis of 144 relevant articles published between January 2018 and March 2021 [ 297 ]. While few studies provide the information needed to help assign probabilities of obtaining DNA results given specific sets of circumstances, progress includes use of Bayesian Networks [ 300 ] to identify variables for complex transfer scenarios [ 38 , [301] , [302] , [303] , [304] , [305] ] as well as development of an online database DNA-TrAC 43 for relevant research articles [ 299 ] and a structured knowledge base 44 with information to help practitioners interpret general transfer events at an activity level [ 306 ].

Forensic DNA pioneer Peter Gill emphasized that awareness of the limitations of DNA evidence is important for users of this data given that an increased sensitivity of modern DNA methods means that DNA may be recovered that is irrelevant to the crime under investigation [ 307 ]. An ISFG DNA Commission (see Section 1.2.5 ) emphasized that the strength of evidence associated with a DNA match at the sub-source level cannot be carried over to activity level propositions [ 38 ]. Structuring case details into propositions, assumptions, and undisputed case information has been encouraged [ 308 ].

Factors affecting variability of DNA recovery on firearms were studied with four realistic, casework-relevant handling scenarios along with results obtained including DNA quantities, number of contributors, and relative profile contributions for known and unknown contributors [ 309 ]. These studies found that sampling several smaller surfaces on a firearm and including the sampling location in the evaluation process can be helpful in assessing results given alternative activity-level propositions in gun-related crimes. The authors recommend that “further extensive, detailed and systematic DNA transfer studies are needed to acquire the knowledge required for reliable activity-level evaluations” [ 309 ].

Other recent studies on DNA-TPPR include examining prevalence and persistence of DNA or saliva from car drivers and passengers [ [310] , [311] , [312] ], evaluation of DNA from regularly-used knives after a brief use by someone else [ 313 ], studying the accumulation of endogenous and exogenous DNA on hands [ 314 ] and non-self-DNA on the neck [ 315 ], considering the potential of DNA transfer via work gloves [ 316 , 317 ] or during lock picking [ 318 ], and investigating whether DNA can be recovered from illicit drug capsules [ 319 , 320 ] or packaging [ 321 ] to identify those individuals preparing or handling the drugs.

Efforts have been made to estimate the quantity of DNA transferred in primary versus secondary transfer scenarios [ 322 ]. As quantities of DNA transferred can be highly variable and thought to be dependent on the so-called “shedder status” – how much DNA an individual exudes, several studies explored this topic [ [323] , [324] , [325] , [326] , [327] ]. Studies have also considered the level of DNA an individual transfers to untouched items in their immediate surroundings [ 328 ], the position and level of DNA transferred during digital sexual assault [ 329 ] or during various activities with worn upper garments [ 330 , 331 ], and the DNA composition on the surface of evidence bags pre- and post-exhibit examination [ 332 ]. Studies assessing background levels of male DNA on underpants worn by females [ 333 ] and background levels of DNA on flooring within houses [ 334 ] are providing important knowledge about the possibilities and probabilities of DNA transfer and persistence.

The authors of one study summarize some key points that could be extended to many other studies as words of caution: “From a wider trace DNA point of view, this study has demonstrated that the person who most recently handled an item may not be the major contributor and someone who handled an item for longer may still not be the major contributor if they remove more DNA than they deposit. The amount of DNA transferred and retained on an item is highly variable between individuals and even within the same individual between replicates” [ 320 ].

3. Emerging technologies, research studies, and other topics

New technologies to aid forensic DNA typing are constantly under development. This section explores recent activities with next-generation DNA sequencing, DNA phenotyping for estimating a sample donor's age, ancestry, and appearance, lineage markers, other markers and approaches, and non-human DNA and wildlife forensics, and is expected to be of value to researchers and those practitioners looking to future directions in the field.

3.1. Next-generation sequencing

Next-generation sequencing (NGS), also known as massively parallel sequencing (MPS) in the forensic DNA community, expands the measurement capabilities and information content of a DNA sample beyond the traditional length-based results with STR markers obtained with capillary electrophoresis (CE) methods. Additional genetic markers, such as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), microhaplotypes, and mitochondrial genome (mtGenome) sequence, may be analyzed along with the full sequence of STR alleles. This higher information content per sample opens up new potential applications such as phenotyping of externally visible characteristics and biogeographical ancestry as described in review articles [ 335 , 336 ].

As mentioned in Section 1.2.1 , the NIJ Forensic Laboratory Needs Technology Working Group (FLN-TWG) published a 29-page implementation strategy on next-generation sequencing for DNA analysis in September 2021 [ 28 ]. This guide discusses how NGS works and its advantages and disadvantages, the various instrument platforms and commercial kits available with approximate costs, items to consider regarding facilities, data storage, and personnel training, and resources for implementing NGS technology. A total of 73% of 105 forensic DNA laboratories surveyed from 32 European countries already own an MPS platform or plan to acquire one in the next year or two and one-third of the survey participants already conduct MPS-based STR sequencing, identity, or ancestry SNP typing [ 337 ].

Validation studies have been described with the ForenSeq DNA Signature Prep kit and the MiSeq FGx system [ [338] , [339] , [340] ], with the Verogen ForenSeq Primer Mix B for phenotyping and biogeographical ancestry predictions [ 341 , 342 ], and for resizing reaction volumes with the ForenSeq DNA Signature Prep kit library preparation [ 343 ]. MPS sequence data showed excellent allele concordance with CE results for 31 autosomal STRs in the Precision ID GlobalFiler NGS STR Panel from 496 Spanish individuals [ 344 ] and from 22 autosomal STR loci in the PowerSeq 46GY panel with 247 Austrians [ 345 ].

STR flanking region sequence variation has been explored [ 346 ] and reports of population data and sequence variation were published for samples from India [ 347 ], France [ 348 ], China [ 349 , 350 ], Korea [ 351 ], Brazil [ 352 ], Tibet [ 353 ], and the United States [ 354 ].

In April 2019 the STRAND ( S hort T andem R epeat: A lign, N ame, D efine) Working Group was formalized [ 355 ] to consider several possible approaches to sequence-based STR nomenclature that have been proposed [ 356 , 357 ]. An overview of software options has been provided for analysis of forensic sequencing data [ 358 ]. Some recent published options include STRinNGS [ 359 ], STRait Razor [ 360 ], ArmedXpert tools MixtureAce and Mixture Interpretation to analyze MPS-STR data [ 361 ], and STRsearch for targeted profiling of STRs in MPS data [ 362 ]. To aid interpretation of MPS-STR data, sensitivity studies were performed with single-source samples and sequence data analyzed by DNA quantity and method used [ 363 ]. A procedure has been described to address calculation of match probabilities when results are generated using MPS kits with different trim sites than those present in the relevant population frequency database [ 364 ]. Performance of different MPS kits, markers, or methods can be compared for accuracy and precision using the Levenshtein distance metric [ 365 ].

Novel MPS STR and SNP panels developed in recent years include IdPrism [ 366 ], a QIAGEN 140-locus SNP panel [ 367 ], the 21plex monSTR identity panel [ 368 ], a 42plex STR NGS panel to assist with kinship analysis [ 369 ], the 5422 marker FORCE (FORensic Capture Enrichment) panel [ 370 ], a forensic panel with 186 SNPs and 123 STRs [ 371 ], the SifaMPS panel for targeting 87 STRs and 294 SNPs [ 372 ], a 1245 SNP panel [ 373 ], 90 STRs and 100 SNPs for application with kinship cases [ 374 ], an adaption of the SNPforID 52plex panel to MPS [ 375 ], 448plex SNP panel [ 376 ], a 133plex panel with 52 autosomal and 81 Y-chromosome STRs [ 377 ], and a forensic identification multiplex with 1270 tri-allelic SNPs involving 1241 autosomal and 29 X-chromosome markers [ 378 ]. The 124 SNPs in the Precision ID Identity Panel were examined in a central Indian population [ 379 ] and human leukocyte antigen (HLA) alleles used in the early 1990s were revisited with MPS capability [ [380] , [381] , [382] ].

MPS methods have demonstrated utility with compromised samples [ [383] , [384] , [385] , [386] , [387] , [388] ] and mixture interpretation [ [389] , [390] , [391] , [392] , [393] , [394] , [395] ]. Microhaplotype assays have also been developed to assist with DNA mixture deconvolution [ 396 , 397 ]. Collaborative studies have explored variability with laboratory performance using MPS methods [ 398 , 399 ]. Population structure [ 400 ] and linkage and linkage disequilibrium [ 401 ] were examined among the markers in forensic MPS panels.

A review of transcriptome analysis using MPS discussed efforts with body fluid and tissue identification, determination of the time since deposition of stains and the age of donors, the estimation of post-mortem interval, and assistance to post-mortem death investigations [ 402 ]. The potential for MPS methods to assist with environmental trace analysis was reviewed in terms of forensic soil analysis, forensic botany, and human identification utilizing the skin microbiome [ 403 ]. The possibility of non-invasive prenatal paternity testing using cell-free fetal DNA from maternal plasma was explored with the Precision ID Identity Panel [ 404 ] and the ForenSeq DNA Signature Prep Kit [ 405 ]. Pairwise kinship analysis was also examined using the ForenSeq DNA Signature Prep Kit and multi-generational family pedigrees [ 406 , 407 ]. Nanopore sequencing has also been explored for sequencing STR and SNP markers [ [408] , [409] , [410] , [411] , [412] , [413] , [414] , [415] , [416] ].

3.2. DNA phenotyping (ancestry, appearance, age)

Continuing research into the genetic components of biogeographic ancestry, appearance, and age predictions have improved forensic DNA phenotyping capabilities [ 417 ]. These forensic innovations may sometimes impact public expectations [ 418 ]. The investigation in a murder case was assisted using information from forensic DNA phenotyping that predicted eye, hair, and skin color of an unknown suspect with the HIrisPlex-S system involving targeted massively parallel sequencing [ 419 ].

The VISAGE ( Vis ible A ttributes Through Ge nomics) Consortium, which consists of 13 partners from academic, police, and justice institutions in 8 European countries, has established new scientific knowledge and developed and tested prototype tools for DNA analysis and statistical interpretation as well as conducted education for stakeholders. In the 2019 to 2022 time window of this review, this concerted effort produced 45 one review article [ 417 ], 22 original research publications [ 337 , [420] , [421] , [422] , [423] , [424] , [425] , [426] , [427] , [428] , [429] , [430] , [431] , [432] , [433] , [434] , [435] , [436] , [437] , [438] , [439] , [440] ], and three reports [ [441] , [442] , [443] ].

DNA phenotyping is currently an active area of research, and numerous activities and publications exist beyond the VISAGE articles noted here. Another 137 articles have appeared in the literature in the past three years on biogeographical ancestry, appearance (primarily hair color, eye color, and skin color), and biological age predictions (typically utilizing DNA methylation) (see Supplemental File ).

3.3. Lineage markers (Y-chromosome, mtDNA, X-chromosome)

Lineage markers consist of Y-chromosome, mitochondrial DNA, and X-chromosome genetic information that may be inherited from just one parent without the regular recombination that occurs with autosomal DNA markers. Research in terms of new markers, assays, and population studies continue to be published for these lineage markers.

3.3.1. Y-chromosome

Several recent review articles were published on forensic applications of Y-chromosome testing [ [444] , [445] , [446] ]. As discussed previously in Section 1.2 , an ISFG DNA Commission summarized the state of the field with Y-STR interpretation [ 39 ]. Rapidly mutating Y-STR loci can be used to differentiate closely related males [ [447] , [448] , [449] ]. New statistical approaches to assessing evidence with Y-chromosome information have been described [ 450 , 451 ]. Four commercial Y-STR multiplexes were compared with the NIST 1032 U S. population sample set and the allele and haplotype diversities explored with length-based versus sequence-based information [ 452 ].

A number of Y-STR typing systems have been described along with validation studies, such as a 36plex [ 453 ], a 41plex [ 454 ], a 29plex [ 455 ], a 17plex [ 456 ], a 24plex [ 457 ], the Microreader 40Y ID System [ 458 ], the 24 Y-STRs in the AGCU Y SUPP STR kit [ 459 ], the DNATyper Y26 PCR amplification kit [ 460 ], a multiplex with 12 multicopy Y-STR loci [ 461 ], the Yfiler Platinum PCR Amplification Kit [ 462 ], a 45plex [ 463 ], the Microreader 29Y Prime ID system [ 464 ], an assay with 30 slow and moderate mutation Y-STR markers [ 465 ], the 17plex Microreader RM-Y ID System [ 466 ], and a 26plex for rapidly mutating Y-STRs [ 467 ]. A machine learning program predicted Y haplogroups using two Y-STR multiplexes with 32 Y-STRs [ 468 ].

Deletions and duplications with 42 Y-STR were reported in a sample of 1420 unrelated males and 1160 father-son pairs from a Chinese Han population [ 469 ]. Using Y-STR allele sequences has enabled locating parallel mutations in deep-rooting family pedigrees [ 470 ]. The surname match frequency with Y-chromosome haplotypes was explored using 2401 males genotyped for 46 Y-STRs and 183 Y-SNPs [ 471 ]. In the Y-chromosome's role as a valuable kinship indicator to assist in genetic genealogy and forensic research, models to improve prediction of the time to the most recent common paternal ancestor have been studied with 46 Y-STRs and 1120 biologically related genealogical pairs [ 472 ]. A massively parallel sequencing tool was developed to analyze 859 Y-SNPs to infer 640 Y haplogroups [ 473 ]. Another MPS tool, the CSYseq panel, targeted 15,611 Y-SNPs to categorize 1443 Y-sub-haplogroup lineages worldwide along with 202 Y-STRs including 81 slow, 68 moderate, 27 fast, and 26 rapidly mutating Y-STRs to individualize close paternal relatives [ 474 ].

3.3.2. Mitochondrial DNA

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), which is maternally inherited with a high copy number per cell, can aid human identification, missing persons investigations, and challenging forensic specimens containing low quantities of nuclear DNA such as hair shafts [ [475] , [476] , [477] ]. Validation studies have been published using traditional Sanger sequencing [ 478 ] and next-generation sequencing [ [479] , [480] , [481] ]. Illumina and Thermo Fisher now provide mtDNA whole genome NGS assays [ [482] , [483] , [484] , [485] ]. Many mtDNA population data sets were published in the past three years including high-quality data from U.S. populations [ 486 ]. The suitability of current mtDNA interpretation guidelines for whole mtDNA genome (mtGenome) comparisons has been evaluated [ 487 ].

NGS methods have increased sensitivity of mtDNA heteroplasmy detection [ 488 , 489 ], which can influence the ability to connect buccal reference samples and rootless hairs from the same individual [ 490 , 491 ]. Twelve polymerases were compared in terms of mtDNA amplification yields from challenging hairs – with KAPA HiFi HotStart and PrimeSTR HS outperforming AmpliTaq Gold DNA polymerase that is widely used in forensic laboratories [ 492 ]. Multiple studies and review articles have discussed distinguishing mtDNA from nuclear DNA elements of mtDNA (NUMTs) that have been inserted into our nuclear DNA [ [493] , [494] , [495] , [496] ].

NGS sequencing of the mtGenome has permitted improved resolution of the most common West Eurasian mtDNA control region haplotype [ 497 ]. Phylogenetic alignment and haplogroup classification have continued to be refined with new sequence information [ 498 ], and new assays have been developed to aid haplogroup classification [ 499 ]. Concerns over potential paternal inheritance of mtDNA have also been addressed [ 500 , 501 ].

3.3.3. X-chromosome

A 20-year review of X-chromosome use in forensic genetics examined the number and types of markers available, an overview of worldwide population data, the use of X-chromosome markers in complex kinship testing, mutation studies, current weaknesses, and future prospects [ 502 ]. One example of the forensic application of X-chromosome markers include use in relationship testing cases involving suspicion of incest or paternity without a maternal sample for comparison [ 503 ]. Four new X-STR multiplex assays were described along with validation studies including a 19plex [ 504 ], a 16plex [ 505 ], another 19plex – the Microreader 19X Direct ID System [ 506 ], and an 18plex named TYPER-X19 multiplex assay [ 507 ]. A collaborative study examined paternal and maternal mutations in X-STR markers [ 508 ]. A software program for performing population statistics on X-STR data was introduced [ 509 ] and sequence-based U.S. population data described for 7 X-STR loci [ 510 ].

3.4. New markers and approaches (microhaplotypes, InDels, proteomics, human microbiome)

In this section on new markers and approaches, publications related to microhaplotypes and insertion/deletion (InDel, or DIP for deletion insertion polymorphisms) markers are reviewed along with proteomic and microbiome approaches to supplement standard human DNA typing methods.

3.4.1. Microhaplotypes

Microhaplotype (MH) markers consist of multiple SNPs in close proximity (e.g., typically <200 bp or <300 bp) that can be simultaneously genotyped with each DNA sequence read using NGS. Two or more linked SNPs will define three or more haplotypes. Compared to STR markers, MHs do not have stutter artifacts (which complicate mixture interpretation), can be designed with shorter amplicon lengths in some cases (which benefits recovery of genetic information from degraded DNA samples), possess a higher degree of polymorphism compared to single SNP loci (which benefits discrimination power), and exhibit low mutation rates (which enables relationship testing and biogeographical ancestry inference). Thus, MH markers bring advantages to human identification, ancestry inference, kinship analysis, and mixture deconvolution to potentially assist missing person investigations, relationship testing, and forensic casework as discussed in several recent reviews [ 16 , 511 ]. A new database, MicroHapDB, has compiled information on over 400 published MH markers and frequency data from 26 global population groups [ 512 ].

A number of MH panels have been described [ [513] , [514] , [515] , [516] , [517] , [518] , [519] ]. Population data has been collected from a number of sources around the world including four U.S. population groups examined with a 74plex assay with 74 MH loci and 230 SNPs [ 520 ]. Various MH panels have been evaluated for effectiveness with kinship analysis [ [521] , [522] , [523] ]. Likewise the ability to detect minor contributors in DNA mixtures has been assessed [ [524] , [525] , [526] ].

3.4.2. InDel markers

InDel markers can be detected using a CE-based length analysis, and thus use instrumentation that forensic DNA laboratories already have. InDels can also be designed to amplify short DNA fragments (e.g., <125 bp) to help improve amplification success rates with low DNA quantity and/or quality. However, with only two possible alleles like SNPs, InDels are not as polymorphic as STRs and thus require more markers to obtain similar powers of discrimination as multi-allelic STR markers and do not work as well with mixed DNA samples. InDels possess a lower mutation rate than STRs and can be used as ancestry informative markers (AIMs) since allele frequencies may differ among geographically separated population groups.

Two commercial InDel kit exist: (1) Investigator DIPlex (QIAGEN, Hilden, Germany) with 30 InDels [ [527] , [528] , [529] , [530] , [531] ] and (2) InnoTyper 21 (InnoGenomics, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA) with 21 autosomal insertion-null (INNUL) markers [ [532] , [533] , [534] , [535] ]. In addition, a number of InDel assays have been published including a 32plex [ 536 ], a 35plex [ 537 ], a 38plex [ 538 ], a 39plex with AIMs [ 539 ], a 43plex [ 540 ], a 57plex [ 541 ], a 60plex with 57 autosomal InDels, 2 Y-chromosome InDels, and amelogenin [ 542 ], a 32plex with X-chromosome InDels [ 543 ], and a 21plex with AIMs [ 544 ].

A multi-InDel marker is a specific DNA fragment with more than one InDel marker located tightly in the physical position that provides a microhaplotype [ 545 ]. Several multi-InDel assays have been published include a 12plex [ 546 ] and an 18plex [ 547 ].

3.4.3. Proteomics

Protein analysis, often through immunological assays, has traditionally been used to identify body fluids and tissues. With improvements in protein mass spectrometry in recent years, genetic variation can be observed in hair shafts via single amino acid polymorphisms. Detection of these genetically variant peptides (GVPs) can infer the presence of corresponding SNP alleles in the genome of the individual who is the source of the protein sample. A thorough review of forensic proteomics in 2021 cited 375 references [ 18 ]. Recent efforts in this area have focused on using GVPs to differentiate individuals through their human skin cells [ [548] , [549] , [550] ] or hair samples [ [551] , [552] , [553] , [554] , [555] , [556] , [557] , [558] , [559] ]. An algorithm has been proposed for calculating random match probabilities with GVP information [ 560 ].

3.4.4. Human microbiome

Microorganisms live in and on the human body, and efforts are underway to utilize the human microbiome for a variety of potential forensic applications [ 21 , [561] , [562] , [563] ]. There are also active efforts with analysis of microbiomes in the environment (e.g., soil or water samples), which could be classified under non-human DNA testing. Forensic microbiome research covers at least six areas: (1) individual identification, (2) tissue/body fluid identification, (3) geolocation, (4) time since stain deposition estimation, (5) forensic medicine, and (6) post-mortem interval (PMI) estimation. Biological, technical, and data issues have been raised and potential solutions explored in a recent review article [ 21 ]. For example, microbes on deceased individuals are being studied to estimate the postmortem interval [ 20 ] and postmortem skin microbiomes were found to be stable during repeated sampling up to 60 h postmortem [ 564 ].

Sequence analysis of 16S rRNA using NGS provides information on the microbiome community present in a tested sample [ 565 ]. The Forensic Microbiome Database 46 correlates publicly available 16S rRNA sequence data as a community resource. If the skin microbiome is extremely diverse among individuals, then the potential exists to associate the bacterial communities on an individual's skin with objects touched by this individual assuming that the bacteria originating from the donor's skin are deposited (i.e., transfer to and persist on the surface) and can be detected and interpreted.

Specific aspects of the microbiome (e.g., the bacterial community) may be able to provide details about the donor through bacterial profiling. For example, in one study correlations were observed between the bacterial profile and gender, ethnicity, diet type, and hand sanitizer used [ 566 ]. Another study with 30 individuals found that each person left behind microbial signatures that could be used to track interaction with various surfaces within a building, but the authors concluded “we believe the human microbiome, while having some potential value as a trace evidence marker for forensic analysis, is currently under-developed and unable to provide the level of security, specificity and accuracy required for a forensic tool” [ 565 ].

Direct and indirect transfer of microbiomes between individuals has been studied [ 567 , 568 ] along with identifying background microbiomes [ 569 ] and the possibility of transfer of microbiomes within a forensic laboratory setting [ 570 ]. Changes in four bacterial species in saliva stains were charted, showing that it was possible to correctly predict deposition time within one week in 80% of the stains [ 571 ]. The ability to detect sexual contact has been explored through using the microbiome of the pubic region [ [572] , [573] , [574] ]. The microbiomes on skin, saliva, vaginal fluid, and stool samples have been compared [ 575 ]. The stability, diversity, and individualization of the human skin virome was explored with 59 viral biomarkers being found that differed across the 42 individuals studied [ 576 ]. It will be interesting to see what the future holds and what other findings come from this active area of research.

3.5. Kinship analysis, human identification, and disaster victim identification

Kinship analysis, which uses genetic markers and statistics to evaluate the potential for specific biological relationships, is important for parentage testing, disaster victim identification (DVI), and human identification of remains that may be recovered in missing person cases. New open-source software programs have been described that can assist with kinship analysis [ 577 , 578 ].

A potential biological relationship is commonly evaluated using a likelihood ratio (LR) by comparing the likelihoods of observing the genetic data given two alternative hypotheses, such as (1) an individual is related to another individual in a defined relationship versus (2) the two individuals not related. Higher LR values indicate stronger support with the genetic data if the proposed relationship is true. Multiple factors influence LR kinship calculations including the specific hypotheses, the genetic markers examined, the allele frequencies of the relevant population(s), the co-ancestry coefficient applied, and approaches to address potential mutations. STR genotypes were reported for 11 population groups used by the FBI Laboratory [ 579 ]. The status quo has been challenged in recent articles regarding how hypotheses are commonly established [ 580 ] and whether race-specific U.S. population databases should be used for allele frequency calculations [ 581 ].

Depending on the relationship being explored, information can be optimized through genetic information from additional known relatives or through collecting results at more loci [ 582 ]. Potential error rates have been modeled with the observation that false negatives, which occur when related individuals are misinterpreted as being unrelated, are more common than false positives, where unrelated people are interpreted as being related [ 583 ]. While LRs are generally reliable in detecting or confirming parent/child pairs, limitations of kinship determinations exist (e.g., distinguishing siblings from half-siblings) when using STR data [ 584 ].

Pairwise comparisons have been studied in forensic kinship analysis [ [585] , [586] , [587] ]. The effectiveness of 40 STRs plus 91 SNPs was shown to be better than 27 STRs and 91 SNPs or 40 STRs alone [ 588 ]. Only a minor increase in LRs was observed when taking NGS-generated allele sequence variation rather than fragment length allele variation [ 589 ]. The statistical power of exclusion and inclusion can be used to prioritize family members selected for testing in resolving missing person cases [ 590 ]. A strategy for making decisions when facing low statistical power in missing person and DVI cases was published [ 591 ].

The most challenging kinship cases involve efforts to separate pairs of individuals who are typically thought to be genetically indistinguishable (i.e., monozygotic twins) or distant relatives (e.g., fourth cousins) where there is an increased uncertainty in the possible relationship. In some situations, somatic mutations may permit distinguishing monozygotic twins following whole genome sequencing – and this approach was successful in four of six cases reported recently [ 19 ]. The probative value of NGS data for distinguishing monozygotic twins was explored [ 592 ]. A unique case of heteropaternal twinning was reported where opposite-sex twins apparently had different fathers [ 593 ]. An impressive effort in kinship analysis using direct-to-consumer genetic genealogy information from 56 living descendants of multiple genealogical lineages helped resolve a contested paternity case from over a century and a half ago to identify the biological father of Josephine Lyon [ 594 ].

Techniques for identification of human remains continue to improve particularly with the capabilities of NGS and hybridization capture [ 595 ] and ancient DNA extraction protocols [ 596 , 597 ]. Studies have reported variation in skeletal DNA preservation [ 598 ] and retrospectively considered success rates with compromised human remains [ 599 ].

A simulated airplane crash enabled six forensic laboratories in Switzerland to gain valuable DVI experience with kinship cases of varying complexity [ 600 ]. The ISFG Spanish-Portuguese Speaking Working Group likewise conducted a DVI collaborative exercise with a simulated airplane crash to explore fragment re-associations, victim identification through kinship analysis, coping with related victims, handling mutations or insufficient number of family references, working in a Bayesian framework, and the correct use of DVI software [ 601 ]. Other groups have explored the capability of a particular software tool [ 602 ] or implemented rapid DNA analysis to accelerate victim identification [ 603 ]. The International Commission on Missing Persons (ICMP) has gained considerable experience with DNA extraction and STR amplification from degraded skeletal remains and kinship matching procedures in large databases [ 604 ]. To supplement the INTERPOL DVI Guide, 47 some lessons learned and experienced-based recommendations for DVI operations have recently been provided [ 605 ].

3.6. Non-human DNA testing and wildlife forensics

Non-human biological evidence may inform criminal investigations when animals or plants are victims or perpetrators of crime or the presence of specific material, such as cat or dog hair, may contribute to reconstructing events at a crime scene. Non-human DNA testing includes wildlife forensics and domestic animal species as well as forensic botany and has many commonalities and some important differences compared to human DNA testing [ [606] , [607] , [608] , [609] , [610] ]. Pollen analysis can assist criminal investigations [ 611 , 612 ]. The potential for and the barriers associated with the wider application of forensic botany in civil proceedings and criminal cases have been examined [ 613 , 614 ].

Mammalian species identification can assist in determining the origins of non-human biological material found at crime scenes through narrowing the range of possibilities [ 615 ]. New sequencing methods have been developed to assist species identification [ 616 ]. A multiplex PCR assay was developed to simultaneously identify 22 mammalian species (alpaca, Asiatic black bear, Bactrian camel, brown rat, cat, cow, common raccoon, dog, European rabbit, goat, horse, house mouse, human, Japanese badger, Japanese wild boar, masked palm civet, pig, raccoon dog, red fox, sheep, Siberian weasel, and sika deer) and four poultry species (chicken, domestic turkey, Japanese quail, and mallard) [ 617 ]. A number of other species identification assays have also been reported [ [618] , [619] , [620] ].

An important effort for harmonizing canine DNA analysis is an ISFG working group known as the Canine DNA Profiling Group, or CaDNAP. 48 The CaDNAP group published an analysis of 13 STR markers in 1184 dogs from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland [ 621 ]. Six traits for predicting visible characteristics in dogs, namely coat color, coat pattern, coat structure, body size, ear shape, and tail length, were explored with 15 SNPs and six InDel markers [ 622 ]. Canine breed classification and skeletal phenotype prediction has been explored using various genetic markers [ 623 ]. A novel assay using a feline leukemia virus was developed to demonstrate that a contested bobcat was not a domestic cat hybrid [ 624 ] and a core panel of 101 SNP markers was selected for domestic cat parentage verification and identification [ 625 ].

DNA tests have been developed to assist with illegal trafficking investigations involving elephant ivory seizures [ 626 ], falcons [ 627 ], and precious coral material [ 628 ]. Accuracy in animal forensic genetic testing was explored with interlaboratory assessments performed in 2016 and 2018 [ 629 ]. A collaborative exercise conducted in 2020 and 2021 by the ISFG Italian Speaking Working Group examined performance across 21 laboratories with a 13-locus STR marker test for Cannabis sativa [ 630 ]. A molecular approach was explored to distinguish drug-type versus fiber-type hemp varieties [ 631 ].

Acknowledgments and disclaimer

I am grateful to Dominique Saint-Dizier from the French National Scientific Police for the invitation and opportunity to conduct this review and for the support of my supervisor, Shyam Sunder, for granting the time to work on this extensive review. Input and suggestions on this manuscript by Todd Bille, Thomas Callaghan, Kevin Kiesler, François-Xavier Laurent, Robert Ramotowski, Kathy Sharpless, and Robert Thompson are greatly appreciated. Certain commercial entities, equipment, or materials may be identified in this document in order to describe an experimental procedure or concept adequately. Such identification is not intended to imply recommendation or endorsement by the National Institute of Standards and Technology, nor is it intended to imply that the entities, materials, or equipment are necessarily the best available for the purpose.

1 https://www.sciencedirect.com/journal/forensic-science-international-genetics/special-issue/10TSDS4360H .

2 https://www.mdpi.com/journal/genes/special_issues/Forensic_Genetic .

3 https://www.mdpi.com/journal/genes/special_issues/forensic_mitochondrial_genomics .

4 https://www.mdpi.com/journal/genes/special_issues/Advances_Forensic_Genetics .

5 https://www.mdpi.com/books/pdfdownload/book/5798 .

6 https://www.mdpi.com/journal/genes/special_issues/Bioinformatics_Forensic_Genetics .

7 https://www.mdpi.com/journal/genes/special_issues/genetics_anthropology .

8 https://www.mdpi.com/journal/genes/special_issues/Identification_of_Human_Remains .

9 https://www.mdpi.com/journal/genes/special_issues/Forensic_DNA_analysis .

10 https://www.mdpi.com/journal/genes/special_issues/Forensic_DNA_Mixture .

11 https://www.mdpi.com/journal/genes/special_issues/28FBA0G4DH .

12 See https://www.swgdam.org/ .

13 https://www.swgdam.org/publications .

14 https://www.fbi.gov/file-repository/rapid-dna-guide-january-2022.pdf/view .

15 https://www.fbi.gov/file-repository/non-codis-rapid-dna-best-practices-092419.pdf/view .

16 https://www.fbi.gov/file-repository/rapid-dna-testing-for-non-codis-uses-considerations-for-court-073120.pdf/view .

17 https://www.justice.gov/olp/uniform-language-testimony-and-reports .

18 https://forensiccoe.org/human_factors_forensic_science_sourcebook/ .

19 https://www.nist.gov/organization-scientific-area-committees-forensic-science .

20 https://www.nist.gov/organization-scientific-area-committees-forensic-science/human-forensic-biology-subcommittee .

21 https://www.nist.gov/topics/organization-scientific-area-committees-forensic-science/wildlife-forensics-subcommittee .

22 https://www.aafs.org/academy-standards-board .

23 https://www.nist.gov/organization-scientific-area-committees-forensic-science/osac-registry .

24 See https://www.nist.gov/organization-scientific-area-committees-forensic-science/human-forensic-biology-subcommittee .

25 https://lexicon.forensicosac.org/ .

26 https://www.nist.gov/osac/human-factors-validation-and-performance-testing-forensic-science .

27 https://www.nist.gov/organization-scientific-area-committees-forensic-science/osac-research-and-development-needs .

28 https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/forensic-science-providers-codes-of-practice-and-conduct-2021-issue-7 .

29 https://www.aabb.org/standards-accreditation/standards/relationship-testing-laboratories .

30 https://www.isfg.org/DNA+Commission .

31 Previously available rapid DNA systems included the RapidHIT 200 from IntegenX and MiDAS (Miniaturized integrated DNA Analysis System) from the Center for Applied NanoBioscience at the University of Arizona.

32 See https://le.fbi.gov/science-and-lab-resources/biometrics-and-fingerprints/codis/rapid-dna .

33 See https://www.interpol.int/How-we-work/Forensics/DNA .

34 See https://www.interpol.int/How-we-work/Forensics/I-Familia .

35 See https://le.fbi.gov/science-and-lab-resources/biometrics-and-fingerprints/codis#Familial-Searching .

36 See https://isogg.org/wiki/Autosomal_DNA_testing_comparison_chart .

37 See https://www.wmar2news.com/infocus/maryland-quietly-shelves-parts-of-genealogy-privacy-law .

38 See https://www.hhs.gov/ohrp/regulations-and-policy/regulations/finalized-revisions-common-rule/index.html .

39 See https://enfsi.eu/about-enfsi/structure/working-groups/dna/ .

40 See https://www.swgdam.org/publications .

41 See https://www.chinesestandard.net/PDF/English.aspx/GAT815-2009 .

42 See https://strider.online/ .

43 See https://bit.ly/2R4bFgL (DNA-TrAC).

44 See https://cieqfmweb.uqtr.ca/fmi/webd/OD_CIEQ_CRIMINALISTIQUE (Transfer Traces Activity DataBase).

45 See https://www.visage-h2020.eu/index.html#publications .

46 See http://fmd.jcvi.org/ .

47 See https://www.interpol.int/en/How-we-work/Forensics/Disaster-Victim-Identification-DVI .

48 See https://www.isfg.org/Working+Groups/CaDNAP .

Appendix A Supplementary data to this article can be found online at https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fsisyn.2022.100311 .

Appendix A. Supplementary data

The following is the supplementary data to this article:

168 Forensic Science Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

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  • Forensic Science and Psychological Profiling This step also helps the investigator to come to the rough details of a crime mainly from the materials that the investigator collects from the crime scene and which becomes of use in the investigation.
  • Forensic Science and Law: The U.S. Supreme Court’s Decision in Daubert According to the Daubert decision, the Supreme Court took a broad view of “science ” based on the data and reasoning facts considered as expert evidence.
  • Forensic Psychology: Relevance in Application The AFP website defines forensic psychology as the “application of the science and profession of psychology to questions and issues relating to law and the legal system”.
  • Forensic Experts in Court: Pros and Cons The forensic psychologist, in this case, does not employ the notion of empathizing any action in the defendant’s favor but being closer to the gathered evidence from the particular defendant’s reasons and provide the sources […]
  • Forensic Science: Term Definition Forensic crime scene investigation currently employs the study of human remains and this also involves extraction of DNA from the tissues for inclusion in the polymerase chain reaction, which is an enzymatic amplification of specific […]
  • Police Functions: Forensic Science and Fingerprinting Even though the police perform an increasingly wide range of functions, it is crime control which remains uppermost in the perceptions of the police role in the minds of both the police and the public.
  • Forensic Interviewing Process The type of interview will depend on some factors like; the kind of information, the person to be interviewed and the urgency of the information required.
  • Forensic Psychology. Child Testimony in Abuse Case This is the main technique used to study the consistency of eyewitness testimony in young children. In this case, there is no accidental assignment and the type of research is referred to as differential research.
  • Forensic Accounting Fraud and Audit Investigation Risk Assessment: The audit will identify and investigate accounting and reporting issues that may be considered as high, medium and low risks areas and may result in material misstatement Process Compliance: The audit will ascertain […]
  • Importance of Expanding FBI’s Forensic DNA Laboratory In addition, acceptance of DNA analysis results as evidence in the Court of law has entrenched DNA analysis in forensic investigations. These have increased the number of samples for DNA analysis in FBI forensic laboratories.
  • Forensic Toxicology, Its Role and Context Postmortem drug testing involves the investigation of death to establish whether the cause of death or one of the contributing factors of the death was drugs.
  • A Shot Man: Forensic Anthropology Case The impact of the bullet was the shattering of his dentures. The effects on his skull and the dentures were as a result of the bullets.
  • U2 IP Forensic Science: Types of Guns and the Nature of Gunshot Wounds The caliber of a weapon and the distance from a gun to a victim determine the features of an injury caused by bullets, shell casing, or projectile. Therefore, forensic investigators should know the types of […]
  • Quality Control of Digital Forensics The quality control over computer forensic products is necessary because of the growth of the Internet services. Thus, the investigator and the lab are challenged not only with solving a case but also providing the […]
  • Analysing the Way Forensic Scientists Conduct Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis of Physical Evidence The molecular composition of an object is understood as the qualitative content of simple and complex chemical substances in it, for the establishment of which molecular analysis methods are used.
  • Research Tools Used by Computer Forensic Teams Computer Forensics is a branch of digital forensics which is used in “identifying, preserving, recovering, analyzing and presenting facts and opinions about the information”.
  • Forensic Anthropology in Criminal and Civil Law Context The facial approximation is the process of the construction of the possible facial image of a person using the configuration of the skull.
  • Glass Analysis in Forensic Science: Characteristics and Properties Determination of the material’s distinctive characteristics based on the analysis of its unique properties is a constant task of the forensic expert. The technique of such measurements consists of immersing the glass in a liquid […]
  • The Concept of Forensic Biometrics: Physiological and Behavioral Characteristics The concept of forensic biometrics seeks to use automated and human-based systems to identify, analyze, and interpret biometric data for forensic and investigatory activities.
  • Forensic Science in Criminology: A Widely Respected and Highly Specialized Field of Science When it comes to studying a case of crime, no matter the level of severity, nothing is more important to a criminal investigator than the use and implementation of forensic science.
  • The Murder of Jonbenet Ramsey – Forensic Pathology The case of murder of JonBenet Ramsey is one of most mysterious episodes in the American criminology, and this report is the attempt to bring some light to the case based on the mistakes made […]
  • Forensic DNA Analysis: A Technique to Achieve a Conclusion of Identity Thus, a DNA match corroborates the fact that the suspect was at the scene of the crime and this evidence can help in establishing a case against the suspects.
  • Forensic Applications of Electron Spectroscopy for Chemical Analysis The difference in the energy of the impinging X-ray and the ejected electrons gives the binding energy of the electron to the atom.
  • Forensic Serology and Its Key Aspects in Investigating Crimes The discoveries that have been made over the years about the components of blood are now being widely used by the police to ascertain the individual that may be responsible for involvement in a crime.
  • Forensic Accounting: Healthsouth Healthcare Providers This paper discusses the concept of forensic accounting and analyses the case of Healthsouth healthcare providers in the light of the use of forensic accounting to unravel and prosecute the case.
  • Honeypots and Honeynets in Network Security Arguably one of the most epic accomplishments of the 21st century was the invention of the computer and the subsequent creation of the internet.
  • Possible Implementation of Forensic Technology Investigating the Green River Killer Case Emphasizing the biographies of the victims, moral aspect of the crimes, and feelings of the relatives, the author describes the valuable details of the investigation process, methods, and techniques used by the police, admitting that […]
  • Criminalistics and Forensic Science vs. Traditional Methods The development of cellular genetic tools and their relevance to the study and exploration of the human D.N. Their borne of contention also lies in the fact that it is prone to be washed away […]
  • Forensic Information and Evidence Forensic evidence is obtained by having a selection of criminal materials and which can lead to the arrest of the culprits behind the crime.
  • The Fields Data Recovery: Forensics Analysis I would like to start a company that would specialize in such branches of computer forensics as data recovery and prevention of data loss.
  • Computer Forensic Timeline Visualization Tool The necessity to save time in computer forensic investigations is the basis of the tool that Olssen and Boldt came up with.
  • Computer Forensics: Data Acquisition Data acquisition is a branch of computer forensics concerned with the retrieval of data originally located on a suspect medium such as a hard drive.
  • Forensic Procedures: Hairs and Fibres The continued cases of robbery, murder and rape have been countered with the adoption of various forensic procedures to bring the crime perpetrators to book. The collection of hairs and fibres is usually the first […]
  • Bio-Forensic Evidence: Central Park Jogger Case In the second section, I discuss the procedure that was used to convict the suspects. In the third section, I explain the effectiveness of recovering DNA from the scene of a crime in the Central […]
  • Tech: Database Forensics Brinkmann & Carracedo observes that one argument in which the outcome of database forensic can be of greater importance to a company is the fact that a company can be able to determine whether the […]
  • Computer Forensics and Audio Data Retrieval Advanced technology in the modern society has contributed to the increase in computer and computer supported criminal activities due to the soaring increases in the number of internet users across the world and computerization of […]
  • Forensic Linguistics: Summarising the Lecture About Law Furthermore, legal proceedings such as witness and detainee statements, police records, and police interview and court interactions are brought within the insights of the forensic context of law.
  • Forensic Toxicology and Why It Is Interesting Forensic toxicology is the study and analysis of samples with the aim of finding out whether they contain any chemicals, drugs, or toxic substances. Types of certification available include Certification as a Forensic Toxicology Specialist […]
  • Criminology: Forensic Human Identification In a typical case, a known sample is obtained from a person, mostly in form of a buccal swab, and the results of the DNA analysis compared to the Questioned sample from the crime scene.
  • Forensic Assessment Tools: Murder of Bill In other words, a psychological assessment of Bill, the person accused of a first-degree murder, is crucial to the fairness of the trial and the feasibility of the verdict to be passed.

💡 Interesting Topics to Write about Forensic Scienc

  • Deoxyribonucleic Acid Profiling in Forensics The last part of the analysis includes discussion of the potential for error in DNA profiling. It has to do with the fact that DNA is a material that fulfills most of the criteria making […]
  • Financial Statement Analysis & Forensic Accounting A review of the ratios shows that the earnings of the company can adequately cover the interest expense. The results show that the profitability is erratic and needs to be observed over a period of […]
  • Forensic Investigator: The Case of State vs. Sandusky It is important to gather as much information about the court records of the witnesses and alleged victim that may be used in the case.
  • Ballistics in Forensic Science The bullet trajectory includes the progress of the bullet through the barrel of the gun following discharge or detonation and its pathway both through the air and the aim.
  • Firearms: Qualification of a Forensic Expert This knowledge is paramount in forensic science as it helps investigators of crime to establish the type of weapon and ammunition used in a crime scene. With the firing of a bullet, the pressure reduces […]
  • Forensic and Investigative Accounting Pitch Sloane Striker is one of the renowned accountants and the founders of Tracker Firm of Investigators. Sloane and her partner, Nancy, discover fraud in the payment of employees.
  • Fraud Auditing and Forensic Accounting In the Olympus case, the top executives of the company conspired to hide company losses from the shareholders and the public for 13 years.
  • Forensic Analysis of DNA and Biological Material This was the first stage when carrying out the DNA test on a biological material. Notably, the forensic analyst was not allowed to touch the collection pad of the swab as a precaution measure.
  • Forensic Drug Testing and Fingerprinting The basis of Fingerprinting is that every human being has a unique design of tiny elevated ridges on the inner surface of the hands known as ‘friction ridge skin.’ The basic steps of carrying out […]
  • The Forensic Facial Reconstruction The aim of forensic facial reconstruction is to use a skull to build a face that can be used to recognize the person to whom the skull belongs.
  • Forensic Science: Insect Evidence In addition, it also documents the chronological order of persons relating to the physical evidence from the time of acquisition to the time of submission to a court of law.
  • Future of Forensic Accounting With Regards to Computer Use and CFRA There are different types of accounting; they include management accounting, product control, social accounting, non assurance services, resource consumption accounting, governmental accounting, project accounting, triple accounting, fund accounting and forensic accounting among others.
  • Professional Accounting. Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination The management of Overstock.com disclosed the latest financial report claiming that compared to the financial year 2008 first quarter reported loss of $4.
  • Forensic Psychology and Behavioral Analysis The basic intention is to provide standards with which the investigators can be able to build concise rationality about the standards of behavior of different persons.
  • Motivational and Forensic Interviewing It is important for Ricky to realize what he wants to achieve and for the therapist to define what kind of help is applicable.
  • Computer Forensic Incident All evidence should be collected in the presence of experts in order to avoid losing data as well as violating privacy rights.N.
  • Forensic Science Discussion: Toxicology, Consent Forms The bodily fluids are collected to be analyzed for the presence of the toxins that might affect the crime, which is helpful for the investigation.
  • Digital Forensic Examination, DVR Another application would be to determine the network’s or a user’s IP and track their online activity. The information can be used to determine an unknown individual’s location and possibly identity, or for a known […]
  • Audio and Video Enhancement in Forensics Forensic video and audio enhancement is the process of clarifying the digital recordings and images to be used as evidence in a court of law.
  • Forensics Expert Explains How to Analyze Bloodstain Patterns: Video Analysis At the beginning of the video, the presenter smashes a bloodstain with a hammer and says, “there we go,” with relief.
  • Tracking Criminal Activity: Operating System Forensics Overall, the advancement of technology has allowed forensic examiners to employ various tools for analyzing the online activity and operational system data of the perpetrators who committed severe cybercrimes.
  • Digital Forensics Tools and Software One of the most famous software programs for digital forensics is Autopsy, a toolkit that examines the images present on a device’s hard drive.
  • Criminalistics: Forensic Science, Crime, and Terrorism These writings can be on the second, third, and so on pages, depending on the pressure on the writing subject, that is, a pen or pencil.
  • Importance of Haptics in Forensics However, replicating the study to verify the findings may prove a challenge due to the high cost of assembling all the specimens and equipment utilized therein.
  • Digital Footprints and Forensic Investigations The death investigation allows law enforcement workers to find answers to many of the questions posed by the crime that has taken place.
  • Forensic Investigation of Oil-Contaminated Concrete Structures This paper will analyze the effects of oil contamination on concrete, outline the tools for a forensic investigation of the material, and provide several repair and remediation methods.
  • Cyber Forensics Accounting and Fraudulent Activities Forensic accountants and cybersecurity teams are the individuals that are likely to become involved in cases of data discrepancies or breaches that often connect to errors in track records of a firm’s finances.
  • Forensic Accounting and Cyber Security The recent trend of increased exposure due to the access of extended financial and fraud concerns by social media and the internet has necessitated the need to curb the tendency.
  • Forensic Science Timeline and Impact on Trial Attention to ballistics was drawn after the case of Sacco and Vanzetti in 1920, which, together with the invention of the comparative microscope, led to the establishment of a bureau in New York in 1923.
  • Digital Forensic Analysis of Fitbit The comparison of the results and the analyses of the data as a result of the research gave the authors of the article a conclusion in regards to the methodology that has evidence-based results in […]
  • Criminal Study: Forensic Interviewing The CI is a method by the detectives to elicit more information concerning a crime scene from witnesses and the victim.
  • Forensic Psychologist’s Role in Homicide Investigation Forensic scientists should ascertain that racial tension exists in society and should not assume each eyewitness is accurately depicting the perpetrators of a crime.
  • Application of DNA in Criminal Forensics In phylogenetic studies, the analysis of DNA from fossil remains allows one to determine the taxonomic identity of a species, while in forensics, one can find the connection between traces and the perpetrator or the […]
  • How Is Digital Forensics a Game-Changer in Solving Homicides?
  • What Is Forensic Psychology?
  • How Have Technological Advancements Influenced Forensic?
  • Can X-Ray Powder Diffraction Be a Suitable Forensic Method for Illicit Drug Identification?
  • How Does Digital Forensic Work?
  • What Is the Role of Ground-Penetrating Radar Systems in Geoforensics?
  • How Does Forensic Psychology Play a Part in Solving Crime?
  • What Is the Role of Organic Chemistry in Forensic Science for Solving Crimes?
  • How Has Today’s Society Been Affected by Forensic Psychology?
  • What Is the Role of Forensic Genealogy in Solving Age-Old Cases?
  • How Useful Are Personality Tests in Employment and Forensic Settings?
  • What Do the Forensic Science Autopsy Reports Indicate?
  • How Do Mathematics and Statistics Aid Cases of Forensic Science?
  • What Are the Methods and Tools Used by Forensic Pathologists?
  • How to Create a Forensic Autopsy Report?
  • What Is the Effect of Automation and Miniaturization in Forensics?
  • How Does Handwriting Analysis Help Forensic Science Professionals?
  • What Is the Impact of Search Engines and Databases in the Forensic Study?
  • How to Track the Victims of Human Trafficking Using Forensic Science?
  • What Are the Factors That Affect Forensic Document Examination?
  • How to Catch a Hacker Using Cyber Forensics?
  • What Is the Role of Crime Scene Photography in Forensics?
  • How the Raman Spectroscopy Contributed to Forensic Science?
  • What Are the Mathematical Principles Used in the Forensic Study?
  • How Can the Type of Weapon Be Confirmed in Forensic Ballistics?
  • Why Molecular Imprinting Is Important for Forensic Study?
  • How to Detect Phishing Through Cyber Forensics?
  • What Is the Effect of Opioids and Other Illegal Drugs on the Forensic Study?
  • How Do Forensic Scientists Collect, Preserve, and Analyze Scientific Evidence?
  • What Do Hair and Fiber Say in Forensic Science Crime Cases?
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120 Forensic Science Topics & Project Ideas

Are you choosing a forensic science topic for your essay or research paper? Delve into the intriguing world of scientific investigations and crime-solving with us! We invite you to our list of excellent forensic science research topics, where you can uncover various forensic disciplines, cutting-edge technologies, and ethical issues that shape the field.

🕵️‍♂️ 7 Forensic Science Topics

🏆 best forensic science research topics, 🎓 good forensic topics for a research paper, 👍 catchy forensic science essay topics, ❓ forensic science topics for project, 🔥 hot forensic science topics.

  • Significance of Computer Forensics to Law Enforcement
  • Juvenile Forensic Psychology: Contemporary Concern
  • Latent Fingerprints in Forensic Examination
  • Forensic Science: Killing of JonBenet Ramsey
  • Forensic Psychology Analysis: Ethical Dilemmas and Principles
  • Forensic Psychologist’s Role in Death Penalty Trial
  • Correlational Design in Forensic Psychology
  • Forensic Psychology: Quantitative vs Qualitative The comparison of the quantitative and qualitative research designs used in psychology is important to conclude when the actual statistical data are expected to be found.
  • Theories of Crime in Forensic Psychology Forensic psychology as a discipline has become closely correlated with the broad theories of crime that aim at defining the reasons behind the offender’s decision to act.
  • Principles of Forensic Toxicology Forensic toxicology is the scientific study of identification of drugs, poisons, chemicals, and metals that are present in the fluids and tissues of an organism.
  • Full-Service Crime Laboratory: Forensic Science Forensic scientists study and analyze evidence from crime scenes and other locations to produce objective results that can aid in the investigation and prosecution of criminals.
  • Mobile Forensics: Investigating BlackBerry Devices Mobile forensics is a term used for retrieving information from mobile phones. The current population is increasingly using mobile phones as a tool for personal communication.
  • Explaining Concepts of Forensic Accounting The standards for forensic accounting are thus derived from the law and they give this practice its law definition.
  • Experimental Psychology and Forensic Psychology Psychology is a powerful field of study aimed at addressing a wide range of human problems. The field can be divided into two specialties. These include experimental and forensic psychology.
  • Forensic Psychology and Criminal Profiling The paper seeks to explore insight into the nature of criminal investigative psychology and a comprehensive evaluation of the practice in solving crime.
  • APA Standards and Forensic Psychology Practice This paper gives answers to two psychology-related questions about the changes in APA standards and the influence of forensic psychology on the concept of competence.
  • Digital Forensic Examination of Counterfeit Documents A citizen has contacted the police regarding the selling of counterfeit public documents. The investigator contacted the computer forensic laboratory to examine the evidence.
  • Statistical Significance and Effect Size in Forensic Psychology Nee and Farman evaluated the effectiveness of using dialectical behavior therapy for treating borderline personality disorder in the UK female prisons.
  • The Role of GC Within Forensic Applications The focus of the paper will be on the role of gas chromatography within forensic applications and it will elaborate on the analytical approaches used the challenges faced.
  • Jacqueline Blake Forensic Fraud Jacqueline Blake’s work in PCR for two years became useless. Her results could not be used in court as evidence due to the shocking revelation of her fraud.
  • Mobile Forensics: Cell Phone in Everyday Life The modern cellular phone is basically a phone, computer, telegraph or fax machine, portable GPS device, and video game machine all in one.
  • Application of Forensic Evidence in Legal Cases This paper presents four court case reviews, in which forensic evidence was presented against defendants for prosecution.
  • A Look at Firearms and Ballistics in Forensic Science Firearms and ballistics expertise is an essential process and area of study within the framework of forensic science.
  • Computer Forensics and Investigations A computer forensics examiner may be called to provide evidence and advice in a court of law. Before logs disappear, digital forensics investigators are required to capture them.
  • The McMartin Preschool and Forensic Psychology The forensic psychologist helps to extract critical information from the children through interviews, leading questions, and medical tests.
  • Police and Forensic Science Technician
  • How Reliable Is Forensic Science?
  • Forensic Science and the Identification of Explosives
  • Liquid Chromatography Finds Its Usefulness in Forensic Science
  • Forensic Science: Proper Crime Scene Techniques
  • Saving the World With Forensic Science
  • Going Deep Into Forensic Science and Its Technology
  • Forensic Science and the Law Enforcement Field
  • Lab Questions Forensic Science
  • Future Forensic Science: Multi-Modal Biometrics
  • Forensic Science and Criminal Investigation
  • The History and Development of Forensic Science
  • Forensic Science and the Criminal Justice System
  • Integrating Forensic Science: Physics-Based
  • Forensic Science: Physical Evidence Is Tangible
  • Physical Evidence and Forensic Science
  • Forensic Science Technicians: Career, Salary, and Education
  • The Scientific Method Applied to Forensic Science
  • Forensic Science: Blood Spatter Analyst
  • The Death Penalty and Forensic Science
  • Forensic Science and the Crime Laboratory
  • Computer Forensics for Solving Cyber Crimes This paper presents research about the deployment of computer forensics in solving cybercrime. The paper brings out a number of cases concerning crimes in the cyberspace.
  • Daubert Standard Definition and Importance for Forensic Assessment The Daubert standard provides courts with expanded criteria for expert testimony acceptance, and it is a valuable tool in the forensic assessment.
  • Homicide Investigations and Forensic Evidence Forensic evidence can be defined as the information at a crime scene such as DNA, blood, body tissues among others found at a crime scene.
  • Geological Forensics and Its Evaluation Geoforensics, which is also referred to as geological forensics, is a branch of study that collects and analyzes geological evidence to solve crimes.
  • The Role of Forensic Nurses in Florida This paper is aimed at discussing the role of forensic nurses in health promotion activities and related professional organizations in Florida.
  • Digital Forensics in Law Enforcement The paper shows that digital forensics in law enforcement is useful in collecting extra proof after an occurrence to support charges against a suspect.
  • Implications of Unethical Conduct in Forensics The paper discusses several issues caused by an individual’s unethical behavior and presents a case pertaining to the topic.
  • The Role of Forensics in the War on Drugs This essay looks at chemicals that are used by forensic experts and the role forensics play in the war on drugs.
  • Penguin Sleuth, a Forensic Software Tool The key aim of the paper is to analyze the forensic software tools available and, give a detailed description of the functionality range for each software tool or tool pack.
  • Analysis of Forensic Psychology Practice The important feature of the whole sphere of forensic psychology practice is the ability to testify in court, reformulating psychological findings into the legal language, etc
  • Forensic Psychology: Subspecialties and Roles Of my specific interests have been basically two subspecialties of forensic psychology. These include correctional psychology as well as police psychology.
  • Forensic Drug Analysis Course: Reflection The most interesting part of the course is the study of various techniques for the analysis of substances and their impact on forensic research.
  • Suicide-Related Research in Clinical Forensic Settings Suicide-related research is to be conducted in the area of forensic psychology to determine the risks associated with suicidal behaviors in patients with mental disabilities.
  • Speciality Guidelines for Forensic Psychology A primary goal of this paper is to discover various guidelines, which are vital to the forensic psychological practice.
  • Forensic Psychology: Personality Assessment Inventory The appraisal finds application in forensic psychology, psychotherapy, PTSD (posttraumatic stress disorder) evaluation, and in employee selection.
  • Linguistics and Law: Forensic Letters This paper review articles The Multi-Genre Analysis of Barrister’s Opinion by Hafner and Professional Citation Practices in Child Maltreatment Forensic Letters by Schryer et al.
  • Forensic Entomology: Collecting and Handling Arthropods Forensic entomology defines the use of insects and other arthropods in investigating the crime scene to determine postmortem interval in cases of missing or dead victims.
  • A Forensic Pathologist’s Professional Path Forensic pathologists go through a demanding educational path to get an equally challenging job, which, in turn, has an excellent outlook.
  • Forensics Analysis of Terrorism Crime Scene Terrorism uses calculated violence to generate public fear and panic to establish a specific political agenda within the general population.
  • Forensic Psychology and Its Essential Feature in the Modern World The essay defines the origins of forensic psychology, analyzes its role in various fields and spheres, and identifies its essential feature in the modern world.
  • Ethical Issues in Forensic Psychology Psychologists face many moral dilemmas in law due to the field’s nature because they are responsible for deciding people’s fates, which puts pressure on them.
  • Cyber Law and Digital Forensic Science The advantage and disadvantage of external media at the same time is that information is easy to hide, steal, or destroy since it is located on a small object.
  • DNA Analysis in Forensic Science This paper aims to describe its details, such as the PCR process, loci and their relation to CODIS, and the functions of touch DNA.
  • Forensic Readiness Programme: Design & Analysis The aspects of the creation of a Forensic Readiness Programme (FRP) have to be viewed in consonance with its hypothesis and payback values.
  • Digital Forensics and Deoxyribonucleic Acid The practice of digital forensics involves analysis of data collected computing devices from a particular crime scene.
  • What Are the Fundamentals of Forensic Science?
  • What Are the Common Problems of Forensic Science?
  • How Detective Fiction and the Rise of Forensic Science Are Connected?
  • What Is Francis Henry Galton’s Contribution to Forensic Science?
  • How Has Forensic Science Changed Society?
  • How Does Forensic Science Contribute to Society?
  • What Are the Pros and Cons of Forensic Science?
  • What Is Liquid Chromatography’s Usefulness in Forensic Science?
  • What Are the Four Advances in Forensic Science That Can Change the Future?
  • What Are the Three Famous Cases Solved by Forensic Science?
  • What Is the Interface Between Forensic Science and Technology?
  • What Are the Recent Advances in Forensic Science?
  • When Did Forensic Science Start To Become Influential in Solving Crimes?
  • What Is the Importance of Forensic Science in Criminal Investigation?
  • In Which System the Forensic Science Plays an Important Role?
  • How Does the Public View Forensic Science?
  • What Are the Ways to Strengthen Forensic Science in the United States?
  • What Is the Application of Next-generation Sequencing Technology in Forensic Science?
  • How Chemometrics Are Used in Forensic Science?
  • What Are the Current and Future Directions of DNA in Wildlife Forensic Science?
  • What Are the Practical Solutions to Human Factor Challenges in Forensic Science?
  • What Is the Role of the Subjectivist Position in the Probabilization of Forensic Science?
  • What Are the Advances in Chemistry Applied to Forensic Science?
  • How to Expand Forensic Science Through Forensic Intelligence?
  • What Is the History of the Formation of DNA Databases in Forensic Science Within Europe?
  • Computer Forensics and Investigations: Basic Procedures In this paper, the author is going to show the basic procedures that ought to be undertaken while performing a digital forensic examination.
  • Forensic Science: Psychological Analysis Human behavior can be evaluated by studying the functioning of the human mind. This is important information in crime profiling among other operations in forensic psychology.
  • Computer Forensics in the FCC vs. Jack Brown Case In the case of the FCC vs. Jack Brown, this will involve accessing the information that has been stored in different file formats.
  • Forensic Psychology Practice Standards for Inmates It is vital for the inmates to have frequent access to psychological assessments because the majority of the inmates end up with psychological problems.
  • Treating Adjudicated Forensic Populations The APA’s ethical code relies on the standards revealing different aspects of psychologists’ practice. It defines the way of resolving ethical issues, explores the specifics of competence.
  • Forensic Psychology, Its History and Evolution Forensic psychology refers to an applied discipline focused on the application of psychological research as well as principles within the legal and criminal justice systems.
  • The Role of Forensic Psychology in the Investigation Confidentiality is an essential feature of a therapeutic bond. Forensic psychologists are bound by a code of ethics to safeguard clients’ information.
  • Forensic Psychology in the Police Subspecialty Forensic psychological officers have crucial roles in the running of the police departments. This is because law enforcement chores are entitled to many challenges.
  • Forensic Psychology: Graham v. Florida and Sullivan v. Florida The question in the two cases Graham v. Florida and Sullivan v. Florida was juvenile sentencing. The offenders claimed their life prison sentences for rape and robbery.
  • Violence Potential Assessment in Forensic Psychiatric Institutions This paper aims to discuss the ways of predicting violence in forensic psychiatric institutions while focusing on the review of the recent research in the field.
  • Forensic Psychology for Police Recruitment and Screening The quest for competitive and effective police officers led to the introduction of some measures to help in the recruitment of individuals.
  • Forensic Psychology in the Correctional Subspecialty Psychological professionals have the role of ensuring that the released convicts have gathered enough knowledge and understanding for them to fit in the society.
  • Applying Codes and Guidelines in Forensic Psychology The codes and guidelines for forensic psychologists are designed specifically to provide a direction to forensic psychologists when addressing their official duties as directed by courts.
  • Current Perspectives in Forensic Psychology Correctional psychologists can act as expert witnesses who can tell the court about the mental problems that an individual could face in the past.
  • Forensic Psychology Guidelines and Assessment Another important element of conducting an assessment in the forensic environment, the principle of diligence should be brought up.
  • The Usage of DNA Technology in Forensic Science DNA typing technology gives the forensic science an opportunity to uncover the information considered by the society “intensely private”.
  • Forensics of Fire and Explosions Critique Forensics of fire and explosion is a subfield that keeps developing and transforming to serve the needs of the criminal justice system.
  • Forensic Nursing in Palmetto Bay, Florida The purpose of the forensic nurse is to assist the authorities in investigating accidents and criminal incidents and to provide quality care to victims.
  • Forensic vs. Advanced Practice Nursing Evolution The main distinction between forensic nurses’ and advanced practice nurses’ divisions is their scope of practice. Forensic nursing has developed in a direction different from APN.
  • Career in Clinical, Counseling, Forensic Psychology The paper indicates the further direction of educational planning and job research in the spheres of clinical, counseling, and forensic psychology.
  • Forensic Psychology: Important Issues Forensic psychologists consider that task of determining insanity extremely difficult. There is a difference between insanity as a psychological condition and a legal concept.
  • The American Psychological Association: Forensic Field Forensic psychologists are commonly invited to provide expert consultation and share their observations that might be useful to the judicial system.
  • Toxicological Evidence in Forensic Pharmacology Forensic toxicology entails the analysis of stains and drugs found in fluids and solid materials collected from a crime scene. Numerous methods are used in a toxicological analysis.
  • Computer Forensics Investigation Plan The US Constitution prohibits employers from conducting searches on employees. However, the protection does not apply to private organizations.

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These essay examples and topics on Forensic Science were carefully selected by the StudyCorgi editorial team. They meet our highest standards in terms of grammar, punctuation, style, and fact accuracy. Please ensure you properly reference the materials if you’re using them to write your assignment.

This essay topic collection was updated on January 22, 2024 .

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Topic Ideas for a Research Paper on Criminal Investigations and Forensics

How Does Chemistry Relate to Forensic Science?

How Does Chemistry Relate to Forensic Science?

The field of forensics is an increasingly important aspect of criminal investigations. The choices of topics for a research paper in this area cover a broad range of subjects with opportunities for an array of approaches. The research element of this type of paper is important, since developments are evolving every year, so make sure you get up-to-date information.

Automatism Defense

A controversial defense that relies on forensic investigations is automatism. Automatism is a state of consciousness in which a person is said to be committing a crime automatically, and should therefore be absolved of full or partial responsibility. The goal of the forensic investigation is determining whether this criminal behavior could have originated as an organic disease, such as a brain tumor or epilepsy, or if it resulted from another disorder, such as sleepwalking.

Facial Reconstruction

A vital forensic investigatory device in the cases of identifying suspects or victims many years after the crime has been committed is facial reconstruction. This tool uses clay and modeling tools to reconstruct facial features with only a skull for a model. Another method of facial reconstruction is computerized aging that can assist in finding adults who went missing when they were children. This topic is ripe for research into the specifics of how such forensic recreations are conducted, as well as discovering the reliability and usefulness of various techniques.

Determining Cause of Death

Forensic science, as applied to criminal investigations, is often tasked with finding cause of death. Research can uncover the history of determining the cause of death, as well as historic methodologies used to identify specific causes. Among those methods are looking for obstructions of the respiratory channels with liquid to indicate drowning, and tissue damage extensive enough to destroy the body’s vital functions to indicate poisoning.

Crime Scene Investigations

Forensic techniques that range from old and simple to current and sophisticated are used to examine the scene of the crime. Although the specifics and technology used have undergone significant changes, photographing the scene remains just as vital a forensic tool in the 21st century as it was in the 19th century. The collection of evidence, such as fingerprints and blood, have also improved, as have the methods of analyzing them. Collection of hair and fibers in forensic investigation at the scene of a crime has become more essential with advancements in microscopic technology and the introduction of forensic tools like chromatography and spectrometry. A paper on an investigative technique could also discuss emerging technology in that field.

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Forensic Science Dissertation Topics

Published by Carmen Troy at January 4th, 2023 , Revised On August 16, 2023

Forensic science is a branch of science or an application that enables using scientific tools, techniques, and principles to solve a criminal act. The application of Forensic science lies in the criminal justice system, whereby the scientists probe an event to disclose the actual occurrences of a crime event.

Choosing forensic science as a career is valuable in terms of its novelty, progression, and demand. It is fairly a new field that has a lot of room for progress and advancement, with advancing technology and is in demand for digging out the ground realities of a crime. When you practice forensic science, no two days will be the same, unlike other professions. One day, you may be testing samples and making assessments of the results other days.

But before you start practising, you are required to complete your degree that is conditioned with writing a dissertation in the final year. If you are clueless about where to start your dissertation, you are not alone. Go through some of the dissertation topics related to Forensic science given below, with their research aim, and get an idea to begin your dissertation.

You may also want to start your dissertation by requesting a  brief research proposal  from our writers on any of these topics, which includes an  introduction  to the problem,  research question , aim and objectives,  literature review , along with the proposed  methodology  of research to be conducted. Let us know if you need any help in getting started.

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2022 Forensic Science Dissertation Topics

Topic 1: investigating the challenges associated with pattern and impression evidence for recommending scientific foundations for accuracy, reliability and validity of forensic analysis.

Research Aim: The research aims to investigate the challenges associated with pattern and impression evidence for recommending scientific foundations for accuracy, reliability and validity of forensic analysis.

Objectives:

  • To critically analyse the challenges of pattern and impression evidence in forensics.
  • To evaluate the use of qualitative comparisons in forensic analysis of pattern evidence and impression to detect any scope of examiner bias.
  • To recommend measures for increasing accuracy, reliability and validity of forensic analysis based on scientific foundations.

Topic 2: Investigating the impact of medical imaging technologies for determining the cause of and manner of sudden death to potentially interpret evidence of foul play

Research Aim: The research aims to investigate the impact of medical imaging technologies for determining the cause of and manner of sudden death to potentially interpret evidence of foul play

  • To analyse the forensic sciences used in the determination of sudden death.
  • To determine the role of medical imaging technologies in determining sudden death and foul play.
  • To evaluate the impact of medical imaging technologies in determining the cause and manner of sudden infant death.

Topic 3: An evaluation of the impact of forensic odontology on solving crimes and legal ethics.

Research Aim: The research aims to evaluate of the impact of forensic odontology on solving crimes and the associated legal ethics.

  • To analyse the role of forensic odontology in the identification of unknown diseased individuals.
  • To analyse the impact of forensic odontology in solving medicolegal problems and providing expert testimony in criminal cases.
  • To investigate the efficacy with which the forensic odontologists identify human remains from crime scenes and detect signs of abuse or neglect among children and elderly.

Topic 4: Evaluation of the impact of forensic anthropology on the identification of age, gender and size of crime victims.

Research Aim: The research aims to evaluate the impact of forensic anthropology on the identification of age, gender and size of crime victims.

  • To contextualise the role application of forensic anthropology in solving criminal cases.
  • To analyse the work of the forensic anthropologists and determine their role in crime scenes.
  • To investigate the role of forensic anthropology in identifying the age, gender and size of crime victims.

Topic 5: Determining the effectiveness of blood spatter studies in identifying the nature and timing of crime at crime scenes

Research Aim: The research aims to determine the effectiveness of blood spatter studies in identifying the nature and timing of crime at crime scenes

  • To determine the applications of blood spatter studies in forensic sciences.
  • To analyse the methods of detecting the nature and timing of crime at the crime scenes.
  • To investigate the effectiveness of blood spatter studies and the scientific basis in identifying the nature and timing of crime at crime scenes

Topic. 1: Forensic science in the 20th century and today

Research Aim: The research aim of the paper will be to find and analyse the differences between the forensic science that existed in the 20 th century and the forensic science that exists today. The research will also identify the bases for forensic science and identify the progress it has made in the time span.

Different methods can be employed to study the difference by qualitative and quantitative analysis. In one way, forensic science’s conventional and modern methods and principles can be tested for accuracy and precision. In the other way, forensic scientists can be interviewed about the differences that they have experienced in the testing methodologies, etc.

Topic. 2: Case Study of the criminal cases and convictions resolved through forensic science

Research Aim: The aim of the research will be to study a couple or more cases that are resolved through forensic science. The research will identify in which capacity the forensic science was eminent in finding significant results, identifying the indicators, and thus disclosing the facts to resolve a complicated criminal case easily.

For more value, the researcher can study high-profile cases to identify the role of forensic science in resolving the most emphatic cases.

Topic. 3: Role of botany and entomology in the forensic science

Research Aim: Botany is the study of plants, and it is significantly related to forensic science. In forensic science, botany can be used to investigate a suspicious plant material at the crime scene. On the other hand, entomology is the study of insects. This study helps in finding the time since death and the source of the dead body.

The research will aim to find the wide importance of botany and entomology in forensic science. The researcher can examine the methods and principles of entomology and botany and identify their application in botany and entomology.

Topic. 4: The impact of swift changes and innovation in technology on the forensic science

Research Aim: Forensic science has improved and changed a lot from what it was twenty to thirty years ago. As the innovations and advancements are occurring in the field of science, the methods, techniques, tools and principles are modifying and simplifying.

The main aim of the research will be to identify the changes and innovations in technology and find their significant impact on forensic science.

Topic. 5: Future of forensic science

Research Aim: The aim of the research will be to speculate the future of forensic science considering the current aspects and trends. The researcher can study the opinions of forensic science researchers and can also examine the trends and reach a finding.

Topic. 6: Forensic science and ethical dilemmas

Research Aim: The application of forensic science is very vast, yet when it comes to ethical and moral ideologies, it has to stumble in some societies.

The aim of the research will be to identify the ethical dilemmas around forensic science in different regions of the world. The study may incorporate the assessment of cultural and religious values and examine to understand the factors lying at the heart of the dilemmas.

Topic 7: Process of victim identification through skeletal remains

Research Aim: The research will find and discuss how a victim can be identified through skeletal remains and what steps they have to go through to find results. The research can also discuss the scope and significance, and progress made in the techniques and tools used for identification.

Topic 8: The future of forensic anthropology

Research Aim: Forensics is very useful in studying anthropology, which incorporates the scientific study of humans. The aim of the research will be to identify the future of forensic anthropology, considering to what extent forensic is applicable in anthropology today and how in future it will advance the study if it does.

Topic 9: Value of crime scene photography in forensics

Research Aim: The research will carry out a scientific analysis of why crime scene photography is important in forensics. It will examine the cases with and without crime scene photography and their impact on forensics, therefore on the results.

Topic. 10: Drugs and Forensics

Research Aim: The main aim of the research will be to identify the effects of opioids and other drugs on forensics and examine how they can halt or boost the examination process.

Topic. 11: Reliability of fingerprint and pattern impression evidence

Research Aim: The roots of forensics lie in the heart of fingerprint and pattern impressions.

The research will identify how reliable is a fingerprint or other impression evidence is. It will find if it is easy to reach conclusive results with this evidence. And how wrong evidence can devastate the credibility of forensics.

Topic 12: The downsides of forensic science

Research Aim: While the scope of forensics is immense, we also need to identify the downside to it. The aim of the research will be to find the downsides of forensic science, its potential, and how it may affect the criminal justice system as a whole.

Topic. 13: Geographic forensic science

Research Aim: The research will aim to study and deeply analyse forensic geology. It will thoroughly study all four types of Geographic forensics: pedology, mineralogy and petrology; geophysics; natural geography and geoscience; remote sensing, location data and Geographic Information systems (GIS).

Topic. 14: Nuclear forensic science

Research Aim: Nuclear forensic science is the investigation and study of nuclear material to investigate the origin and history of the material.

The research will study and analyse Nuclear forensic science, its scope, implications, and future.

Topic. 15: Role of RNA in forensic science

Research Aim: Ribonucleic acid is a molecule in our body like DNA. While DNA plays a significant role in forensics, RNA also holds immense value.

The research will study the role of RNA in forensic science, its scope, and its principles for investigation.

Topic. 16: Role of Blood spatters in solving crimes

Research Aim: The research will aim to analyse and figure out the role of blood spatters of the victim or culprit in investigating the time of death, the source that caused blood spatters, and the identity of the victim or culprit.

Topic. 17: Forensic frauds and their penalties

Research Aim: Oftentimes, the forensic reports are doctored to mislead the judiciary and save the real culprit. The research will find out if there are laws around handling forensic investigations and penalties for fraud around the world. The researcher can study the laws in a particular context—for example,  Forensic frauds and their penalties in Europe, or the United Kingdom, etc.

Topic. 18: History of Forensic science

Research Aim: The main research aim of the research will be to study and analyse the history of forensic science. The research will make significant, useful contrasts to understand the roots of forensics and its evolution.

Topic. 19: Understanding Antemortem, Perimortem, and Postmortem

Research Aim: Experts have to differentiate between antemortem, perimortem, and postmortem bone fracture to estimate the postmortem interval. The research aim will be to understand the concepts of antemortem, perimortem, and postmortem and their scope in forensics.

Topic. 20: Forensic science and facial recognition

Research Aim: The main aim of the research is to identify and analyse the scope of financial recognition in forensics. It will also discuss the developments and prospects in the field.

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How to Come Up with Effective Forensic Science Research Paper Ideas?

Forensic science research papers discuss a vast number of subjects, including forensic investigations, criminal law, and effectiveness of forensics, just to name a few. University students who are pursuing graduate or postgraduate studies will definitely need to conduct thorough research. Here are some of the ideas for you to consider in the paper:

  • Start with the Internet. The Web in full of topic suggestions and information to use. What is more, the research can be done in your free time and in the comfort of your home.
  • Read a lot. Great writers are also avid readers. Look for research-based articles on the topics that are written by experts in this field. This will not only provide you with a basis for your own paper but can also develop a liking of such a complicated subject as forensic science.
  • Don’t always opt for a difficult topic. Unless you fully understand the complicated terms related to the criminalistics, always go for a simpler topic. If you are passionate about gaining knowledge and wish to be read widely, picking up a complicated topic is not an issue.
  • Choose an interesting topic. The attractiveness of your topic influences your dedication to performing research and writing the paper. Unless your professor assigned a topic you cannot deviate from, search the Internet, ask your friends for suggestions or work out an idea from sample papers until you get something to your liking. In the following paragraphs, we have collected some trendy topics on forensics you ‘ll absolutely wish to consider.

Forensic Science Topics for a Research Paper on History of the Craft

History of forensic science is a common topic when it comes to writing a research paper in criminalistics. Study how it became an inevitable law enforcement tool to investigate crimes, dig to learn the first forensic science types and instruments or learn when it was allowed as evidence in a courtroom for the first time. Of course, determining the final topic of the research paper will depend on your class and the requirements of the professor; still, below we provide a couple of useful ideas to start with:

  • How was forensic science practiced in ancient times?
  • Why is it important to learn the history of forensics?
  • The implications of ethical behavior and religious beliefs on the forensic science workplace
  • How did the discovery of DNA analysis revolutionize the criminalistics?
  • Examine the growth of forensic science over the years

Topics for Forensic Science and Study of Evidence Research Papers

In your forensic research paper, you can review using of evidence obtained by blood tests, ballistics, and DNA test, as well as debris and other objects found at the crime scenes. It can be, for example, animal hair, carpet fiber or other small material fragments in order to determine the exact crime scene, perpetrators, and their whereabouts. Besides, analyzing the completed investigation in terms of evidence found and used to detect and convict a suspect can be the main topic of your research.

  • The role and impact of forensic evidence in the investigation and criminal justice process
  • Importance of forensic evidence photography in a crime scene
  • What are the advances in fire debris analysis?
  • Trace evidence and the current forensic science crisis
  • What is the difference between categorical and probabilistic fingerprint evidence?

Research Paper Topics for Forensic Science and Forensic Economics

Forensic economics if the subdiscipline that studies and interprets the economic damage of the crimes. It includes the calculations of lost business profit and value, lost benefits and earnings, medical care costs, lost value of household service, and so on. Here are some of the topics forensic economics covers under its umbrella:

  • Should forensic economics be rather regarded as a branch of economics?
  • What are the main issues faced in the calculation of personal economic damages in civil litigation?
  • What is the role of a forensic economist in a damage assessment for commercial economic damages?
  • What are the major methods of forensic economics?
  • How is forensic economics used in the context of competition-law enforcement?

Writing a paper on forensic science is not as easy as ABC. However, with our research paper writer service , it’s not rocket science either. No need to google ‘ research papers for sale APA format ’, just contact us and let us make your academic journey much more fascinating. We will give you a helping hand in any step of crafting an A-grade paper: from picking up a topic and drafting an outline to writing the text and proofreading it. Professional assistance or hours spent on figuring out with forensics: it’s up to you to decide.

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251+ Life Science Research Topics [Updated]

life science research topics

Life science research is like peering into the intricate workings of the universe, but instead of stars and galaxies, it delves into the mysteries of life itself. From unraveling the secrets of our genetic code to understanding ecosystems and everything in between, life science research encompasses a vast array of fascinating topics. In this blog post, we’ll embark on a journey through some of the most captivating life science research topics within the realm of life science research.

What is research in life science?

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Research in life science involves the systematic investigation and study of living organisms, their interactions, and their environments. It encompasses a wide range of disciplines, including biology, genetics, ecology, microbiology, neuroscience, and more.

Life science research aims to expand our understanding of the fundamental principles governing life processes, uncover new insights into biological systems, develop innovative technologies and therapies, and address pressing challenges in areas such as healthcare, agriculture, and conservation.

251+ Life Science Research Topics: Category Wise

Genetics and genomics.

  • Genetic basis of inherited diseases
  • Genome-wide association studies
  • Epigenetics and gene regulation
  • Evolutionary genomics
  • CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing technology
  • Pharmacogenomics and personalized medicine
  • Population genetics
  • Functional genomics
  • Comparative genomics across species
  • Genetic diversity and conservation

Biotechnology and Bioengineering

  • Biopharmaceutical production
  • Metabolic engineering for biofuel production
  • Synthetic biology applications
  • Bioremediation techniques
  • Nanotechnology in drug delivery
  • Tissue engineering and regenerative medicine
  • Biosensors for environmental monitoring
  • Bioprocessing optimization
  • Biodegradable plastics and sustainable materials
  • Agricultural biotechnology for crop improvement

Ecology and Environmental Biology

  • Biodiversity hotspots and conservation strategies
  • Ecosystem services and human well-being
  • Climate change impacts on ecosystems
  • Restoration ecology techniques
  • Urban ecology and biodiversity
  • Marine biology and coral reef conservation
  • Habitat fragmentation and species extinction
  • Ecological modeling and forecasting
  • Wildlife conservation genetics
  • Microbial ecology in natural environments

Neuroscience and Cognitive Science

  • Brain mapping techniques (fMRI, EEG, etc.)
  • Neuroplasticity and learning
  • Neural circuitry underlying behavior
  • Neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, etc.)
  • Neural engineering for prosthetics
  • Consciousness and the mind-body problem
  • Psychiatric genetics and mental health disorders
  • Neuroimaging in psychiatric research
  • Developmental cognitive neuroscience
  • Neural correlates of consciousness

Evolutionary Biology

  • Mechanisms of speciation
  • Molecular evolution and phylogenetics
  • Coevolutionary dynamics
  • Evolution of antibiotic resistance
  • Cultural evolution and human behavior
  • Evolutionary consequences of climate change
  • Evolutionary game theory
  • Evolutionary medicine and infectious diseases
  • Evolutionary psychology and human cognition
  • Paleogenomics and ancient DNA analysis

Cell Biology and Physiology

  • Cell cycle regulation and cancer biology
  • Stem cell biology and regenerative medicine
  • Organelle dynamics and intracellular transport
  • Cellular senescence and aging
  • Ion channels and neuronal excitability
  • Metabolic pathways and cellular energetics
  • Cell signaling pathways in development and disease
  • Autophagy and cellular homeostasis
  • Mitochondrial function and disease
  • Cell adhesion and migration in development and cancer

Microbiology and Immunology

  • Microbiome composition and function
  • Antibiotic resistance mechanisms
  • Host-microbe interactions in health and disease
  • Viral pathogenesis and vaccine development
  • Microbial biotechnology for waste treatment
  • Immunotherapy approaches for cancer treatment
  • Microbial diversity in extreme environments
  • Antimicrobial peptides and drug discovery
  • Microbial biofilms and chronic infections
  • Host immune responses to viral infections

Biomedical Research and Clinical Trials

  • Translational research in oncology
  • Precision medicine approaches
  • Clinical trials for gene therapies
  • Biomarker discovery for disease diagnosis
  • Stem cell-based therapies for regenerative medicine
  • Pharmacokinetics and drug metabolism studies
  • Clinical trials for neurodegenerative diseases
  • Vaccine efficacy trials
  • Patient-reported outcomes in clinical research
  • Health disparities and clinical trial participation

Emerging Technologies and Innovations

  • Single-cell omics technologies
  • 3D bioprinting for tissue engineering
  • CRISPR-based diagnostics
  • Artificial intelligence applications in life sciences
  • Organs-on-chip for drug screening
  • Wearable biosensors for health monitoring
  • Nanomedicine for targeted drug delivery
  • Optogenetics for neuronal manipulation
  • Quantum biology and biological systems
  • Augmented reality in medical education

Ethical, Legal, and Social Implications (ELSI) in Life Sciences

  • Privacy concerns in genomic research
  • Ethical considerations in gene editing technologies
  • Access to healthcare and genetic testing
  • Intellectual property rights in biotechnology
  • Informed consent in clinical trials
  • Animal welfare in research
  • Equity in environmental decision-making
  • Data sharing and reproducibility in science
  • Dual-use research and biosecurity
  • Cultural perspectives on biomedicine and genetics

Public Health and Epidemiology

  • Disease surveillance and outbreak investigation
  • Global health disparities and access to healthcare
  • Environmental factors in disease transmission
  • Health impacts of climate change
  • Social determinants of health
  • Infectious disease modeling and forecasting
  • Vaccination strategies and herd immunity
  • Epidemiology of chronic diseases
  • Mental health epidemiology
  • Occupational health and safety

Plant Biology and Agriculture

  • Crop domestication and evolution
  • Plant-microbe interactions in agriculture
  • Genetic engineering for crop improvement
  • Plant hormone signaling pathways
  • Abiotic stress tolerance mechanisms in plants
  • Soil microbiology and nutrient cycling
  • Agroecology and sustainable farming practices
  • Plant secondary metabolites and natural products
  • Plant developmental biology
  • Plant epigenetics and environmental adaptation

Bioinformatics and Computational Biology

  • Genome assembly and annotation algorithms
  • Phylogenetic tree reconstruction methods
  • Metagenomic data analysis pipelines
  • Machine learning approaches for biomarker discovery
  • Structural bioinformatics and protein modeling
  • Systems biology and network analysis
  • Transcriptomic data analysis tools
  • Population genetics simulation software
  • Evolutionary algorithms in bioinformatics
  • Cloud computing in life sciences research

Toxicology and Environmental Health

  • Mechanisms of chemical toxicity
  • Risk assessment methodologies
  • Environmental fate and transport of pollutants
  • Endocrine disruptors and reproductive health
  • Nanotoxicology and nanomaterial safety
  • Biomonitoring of environmental contaminants
  • Ecotoxicology and wildlife health
  • Air pollution exposure and respiratory health
  • Water quality and aquatic ecosystems
  • Environmental justice and health disparities

Aquatic Biology and Oceanography

  • Marine biodiversity conservation strategies
  • Ocean acidification impacts on marine life
  • Coral reef resilience and restoration
  • Fisheries management and sustainable harvesting
  • Deep-sea biodiversity and exploration
  • Harmful algal blooms and ecosystem health
  • Marine mammal conservation efforts
  • Microplastics pollution in aquatic environments
  • Ocean circulation and climate regulation
  • Aquaculture and mariculture technologies

Social and Behavioral Sciences in Health

  • Health behavior change interventions
  • Social determinants of health disparities
  • Health communication strategies
  • Community-based participatory research
  • Patient-centered care approaches
  • Cultural competence in healthcare delivery
  • Health literacy interventions
  • Stigma reduction efforts in public health
  • Health policy analysis and advocacy
  • Digital health technologies for behavior monitoring

Bioethics and Biomedical Ethics

  • Ethical considerations in human subjects research
  • Research ethics in vulnerable populations
  • Privacy and data protection in healthcare
  • Professional integrity and scientific misconduct
  • Ethical implications of genetic testing
  • Access to healthcare and health equity
  • End-of-life care and euthanasia debates
  • Reproductive ethics and assisted reproduction
  • Ethical challenges in emerging biotechnologies

Forensic Science and Criminalistics

  • DNA fingerprinting techniques
  • Forensic entomology and time of death estimation
  • Trace evidence analysis methods
  • Digital forensics in criminal investigations
  • Ballistics and firearm identification
  • Forensic anthropology and human identification
  • Bloodstain pattern analysis
  • Arson investigation techniques
  • Forensic toxicology and drug analysis
  • Forensic psychology and criminal profiling

Nutrition and Dietary Science

  • Nutritional epidemiology studies
  • Diet and chronic disease risk
  • Functional foods and nutraceuticals
  • Macronutrient metabolism pathways
  • Micronutrient deficiencies and supplementation
  • Gut microbiota and metabolic health
  • Dietary interventions for weight management
  • Food safety and risk assessment
  • Sustainable diets and environmental impact
  • Cultural influences on dietary habits

Entomology and Insect Biology

  • Insect behavior and communication
  • Insecticide resistance mechanisms
  • Pollinator decline and conservation efforts
  • Medical entomology and vector-borne diseases
  • Invasive species management strategies
  • Insect biodiversity in urban environments
  • Agricultural pest management techniques
  • Insect physiology and biochemistry
  • Social insects and eusociality
  • Insect symbiosis and microbial interactions

Zoology and Animal Biology

  • Animal behavior and cognition
  • Conservation genetics of endangered species
  • Reproductive biology and breeding programs
  • Wildlife forensics and illegal wildlife trade
  • Comparative anatomy and evolutionary biology
  • Animal welfare and ethics in research
  • Physiological adaptations to extreme environments
  • Zoological taxonomy and species discovery
  • Animal communication and signaling
  • Human-wildlife conflict mitigation strategies

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

  • Protein folding and misfolding diseases
  • Enzyme kinetics and catalytic mechanisms
  • Metabolic regulation in health and disease
  • Signal transduction pathways
  • DNA repair mechanisms and genome stability
  • RNA biology and post-transcriptional regulation
  • Lipid metabolism and membrane biophysics
  • Molecular interactions in drug design
  • Bioenergetics and cellular respiration
  • Structural biology and X-ray crystallography

Cancer Biology and Oncology

  • Tumor microenvironment and metastasis
  • Cancer stem cells and therapy resistance
  • Angiogenesis and tumor vasculature
  • Immune checkpoint inhibitors in cancer therapy
  • Liquid biopsy techniques for cancer detection
  • Oncogenic signaling pathways
  • Personalized medicine approaches in oncology
  • Radiation therapy and tumor targeting strategies
  • Cancer genomics and precision oncology
  • Cancer prevention and lifestyle interventions

Developmental Biology and Embryology

  • Embryonic stem cell differentiation
  • Morphogen gradients and tissue patterning
  • Developmental genetics and model organisms
  • Regenerative potential in vertebrates and invertebrates
  • Developmental plasticity and environmental cues
  • Embryo implantation and pregnancy disorders
  • Germ cell development and fertility preservation
  • Cell fate determination in development
  • Evolutionary developmental biology (evo-devo)
  • Organogenesis and tissue morphogenesis

Pharmacology and Drug Discovery

  • Drug-target interactions and pharmacokinetics
  • High-throughput screening techniques
  • Structure-activity relationship studies
  • Drug repurposing strategies
  • Natural product drug discovery
  • Drug delivery systems and nanomedicine
  • Pharmacovigilance and drug safety monitoring
  • Pharmacoeconomics and healthcare outcomes
  • Drug metabolism and drug-drug interactions

Stem Cell Research

  • Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) technology
  • Stem cell therapy applications in regenerative medicine
  • Stem cell niche and microenvironment
  • Stem cell banking and cryopreservation
  • Stem cell-based disease modeling

What Are The 10 Examples of Life Science Research Paper Titles?

  • Investigating the Role of Gut Microbiota in Neurological Disorders: Implications for Therapeutic Interventions.
  • Genome-Wide Association Study Identifies Novel Genetic Markers for Cardiovascular Disease Risk.
  • Understanding the Molecular Mechanisms of Cancer Metastasis: Insights from Cellular Signaling Pathways.
  • The Impact of Climate Change on Plant-Pollinator Interactions: Implications for Biodiversity Conservation.
  • Exploring the Potential of CRISPR/Cas9 Gene Editing Technology in Treating Genetic Disorders.
  • Characterizing the Microbial Diversity of Extreme Environments: Insights from Deep-Sea Hydrothermal Vents.
  • Assessment of Novel Drug Delivery Systems for Targeted Cancer Therapy: A Preclinical Study.
  • Unraveling the Neurobiology of Addiction: Implications for Treatment Strategies.
  • Investigating the Role of Epigenetics in Age-Related Diseases: From Mechanisms to Therapeutic Targets.
  • Evaluating the Efficacy of Herbal Remedies in Traditional Medicine: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Life science research is a journey of discovery, filled with wonder, excitement, and the occasional setback. Yet, through perseverance and ingenuity, researchers continue to push the boundaries of knowledge, unlocking the secrets of life itself. As we stand on the cusp of a new era of scientific discovery, one thing is clear: the future of life science research is brighter—and more promising—than ever before. I hope these life science research topics will help you to find the best topics for you.

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