Forensic Analysis (10 cr)

Objective

The student knows how to sample and analyze forensic samples. He/she knows how to use different chemical, physical and biological analysis techniques applied in the forensic analysis.

Content

1. Techniques of molecular biology and immunology: PCR, real time qPCR, sequencing, DNA fingerprinting and electrophoretic methods
2. Identification of human and animal species
3. Examination of body fluids
4. Applications of instrumental methods (GC-MS, HPLC, FTIR) used in forensic analysis, e.g. explosives, drugs and fire debris.
5. Microscopy: structure of equipment, function and applications (optical and electron microscopy)
6. Crime scene investigation (e.g. fingerprinting, documentation, sampling of chemical, physical and biological evidence, reporting)

Materials

Jackson & Mountain (2017): Forensic Science, 4th edition. Pearson.

Teaching methods

Lectures, labs, demos

International connections

Guest lectures:
Mahesh Uttamlal, GCU, Scotland
Annemieke van Dam, Amsterdam UAS

Exchange students

Student workload

Weekly assignments
Exams

Evaluation scale

0-5

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1)

The student is able to:
- apply professional knowledge in the field of forensic analysis appropriately
- find information and argue for the use of his/her sources
- show that s/he has achieved the targets for core competence
- find out the safety instructions concerning work assignments and to act in accordance with them

Assessment criteria, good (3)

The student is able to:
- use concepts and knowledge in forensic analysis fluently and comprehensively
- assess and use information sources and research information with a critical eye
- operate in a range of work situations, also in international contexts
- act responsibly in work duties, taking safety issues into consideration

Assessment criteria, excellent (5)

The student is able to:
- use theoretical and professional concepts and knowledge like an expert and combine them into larger entities
- apply professional expertise
- take responsibility for a professional process in its entirety
- be goal-oriented and to develop himself/herself and the project group

Assessment criteria, approved/failed

The student is able to:
- apply professional knowledge in the forensic analysis appropriately
- find information and argue for the use of his/her sources
- show that s/he has achieved the targets for core competence
- find out the safety instructions concerning work assignments and to act in accordance with them

Assessment methods and criteria

The final grade will be determined:
30 % learning diaries
20 % crime scene report
50 % lab reports, assignments and exams

Qualifications

Organic Chemistry and Analytics
Gene Technique
Synthesis Project
Identification of Unknown Bacteria