Through schemes such as Light it up, which aims to revolutionise the way traces of biological evidence such as blood or saliva are found and identified at crime scenes, King’s Forensics will be providing the MPS with cutting edge research that will help improve immediate and follow-up analysis of forensic data.
The research will investigate the use of novel ‘sensing’ molecules that emit different coloured light when coming into contact with body fluids, allowing forensic scientists to quickly find valuable body fluid traces that otherwise may be missed by the naked eye.
Other research areas that will benefit from this new partnership include fingerprint detection, in-depth DNA analysis, environmental forensics and analytical evidence interpretation.
Dr Barbara Daniel, who leads King’s Forensics, commented: ‘The new partnership with MPS and LGC is helping ensure that we remain at the forefront of forensic research and the analysis of complex casework, while delivering a world-class education to future forensic scientists.’
King’s has a long history of working with both police and civilian forensic science practitioners, expanding in 1985 to deliver the first postgraduate course in the discipline to be established in England.
King’s Forensics will be providing the Metropolitan Police Service with cutting-edge research that will help improve immediate and follow-up analysis of forensic data.
King’s Forensics is home to two world-leading research laboratories: the King’s Drug Control Centre and DNA analysis at King’s. Internationally renowned for its work in anti-doping control, the Drug Control Centre’s laboratory is in the only one of its kind in the UK. DNA analysis at King’s is a fully accredited casework laboratory specialising in complex DNA analysis for family relationships and intelligence worldwide. Together the laboratories underpin the university’s position as a key research hub for the MPS and other bodies.
The new partnership builds on King’s 15-year relationship with the MPS, which over the years has enabled joint research projects and used science and technology innovations to tackle crime in the city and help keep London safe.