Forensic Analysis (10 ECTS)

Learning outcomes

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)

Prerequisites

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

Teaching methods

Lectures, labs, demos

Learning materials and recommended literature

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

Student workload

Weekly assignments

Assessment methods and criteria

The final grade will be determined:
20 % learning diaries
25 % crime scene report
55 % lab reports, assignments and exam

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