Forensic Science


Feature Writer: Melissa Murfin
Melissa Murfin, PA-C, PharmD, Ann Lupo, Thyroid Center of Florida

Forensic Science deals with both life and with death. DNA, Cloning and Stem Cell Research fall into this category. So do all the details of a crime scene like ballistics, fiber analysis, forensic dentistry, toolmarks, poisoning, wounds, forensic sculpture, accident investigation and many more.

Wherever we go and whatever we do we always leave traces behind. No matter how microscopic, they can be detected through the growing and evolving discipline of Forensic Science - the tool that brings criminals to book and solves many mysteries.

TV Shows like the CSI series, Dexter, Criminal Minds, Bones, Without a Trace, Crime 360 and the Court TV channel have certainly done a lot for forensic science, some say positive, others disagree. In fact they have created what is referred to as the CSI Effect.

feature articles
Melissa Murfin

Crime Scene Identification of Human Blood

In: Crime Scene Processing

Identifying the source of blood evidence found at a crime scene is one step in a forensic investigation. Various tests are used to determine if the blood is human. more...

Forensic Science of Bloodstain Pattern Analysis

In: Crime Scene Processing

The pattern left by bloodstains at a crime scene are important pieces of evidence in a criminal investigation. Blood spatter answers questions about how crimes occur. more...

Mobile Biometric Fingerprinting Scanners

In: Forensic Science (general)

Police agencies across the world are using mobile biometric fingerprinting for forensic identification. Fingerprint scanners identify suspects and victims more quickly. more...

Obtaining a Forensic Science Certification

In: Forensic Science (general)

The popularity of television shows like CSI and Criminal Minds has made forensics careers popular choices for students. Forensic colleges now offer online classes. more...

Forensic Methods of DNA Testing

In: DNA & Trace Analysis

Analyzing evidence from unsolved cases with new technologies may help in solving decades-old homicides. New forensic techniques in DNA testing aid in this evaluation. more...

Environmental Forensics Tests Chinese Drywall

In: Forensic Science (general)

Homes built with drywall from China are suffering from problems with air quality and metal corrosion. Environmental forensic testing could identify the problem. more...

DNA Analysis Could Help Find Amelia Earhart

In: DNA & Trace Analysis

A hair purportedly from Amelia Earhart could provide the DNA sample needed to compare artifacts found in exploration of the island where she may have crashed and died. more...

Overview of Forensic Chemistry Testing

In: Crime Scene Processing

Crime scene technology includes using chemical analysis techniques to evaluate evidence in areas such as toxicology, general chemistry, metallurgy and paint and polymers. more...

All feature articles in Forensic Science

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