This module aims to provide the student with specialised knowledge in the theory and practice of forensic DNA typing by investigating the biology, technology and genetic interpretation underpinning modern forensic DNA typing methods.

1. Demonstrate intellectual knowledge by explaining the principles underpinning modern forensic DNA typing.

2. Demonstrate professional/practical skills by being able to perform and interpret selected practical applications of forensic DNA typing methods.

3. Analyse, evaluate and draw conclusions from data obtained in the laboratory and/or data presented in problem solving exercises.

4. Communicate scientific data in an appropriate format.

The students engage in an independent piece of literature research where they utilise the skills and competencies that they have acquired in their programme to compile a literature review on an assigned area of forensic / analytical science. The work is presented both as a written report and in oral format.

1. Source primary literature on an assigned topic in forensic science / biology / chemistry
2. Critically appraise thequality and relevance of scientific literature and assess importance to assigned topic
3. Be self directed in terms of time, motivation and planning with minmal supervisory input
4. Demonstrate depth of sceintific knowledge andunderstanding in a clearly written, insightful, structured written review.
5. Present the findings as on oral presentation

This module includes enriched work-integrated learning experiences. Students gain experience of a work-based activity in a scientific, legal, or other course relevant environment; and reflect on their role of their scientific skills base in a workplace context. During the third academic year the student will collaborate in a search for appropriate work experience activities which will address both the requirements of the module and the future career interests of the student. This activity will require the student to keep a daily log of activities with associated reflection. Following work experience the student will reflect on the experience, present a report and give a presentation. Integrated within the module are visits to the laboratories of both industrial and public sector employers. A professional interview with associated preparation and feedback is also a component part of this module. The work experience will normally take place during the summer of the third year of the programme.

1. Describe the personal objectives of work placement and detail various actions, activities and communications required in order to achieve it

2. Reflect on the work experience,the mission of the organizationincluding reference to the roles and functions of the various personnel encountered.

3. Keep comprehensive records of daily activities in an appropriate format including a daily reflection.

4. Develop professional skills including written communication skills, presentation, interview, time management, project management and conflict resolution skills.

5. Preparefora technical interview and give a professional presentation

6. Discuss learning fromtheir visits to industry and public sector laboratories and insights fromvisiting speakers

This module covers advanced topics in forensic analysis. spectroscopy and atomic spectrometry, chromatography, electroanalytical and sample preparation for these techniques. In involves collection, storage, preparation and pretreatments of forensic samples. This module covers the wide range of advanced instrument currently available and also addresses troubleshooting and problem solving with advanced instrumentation. This module also covers evaluation of chromatographic data and interpretation of spectra as well as instrument characteristics.

1. Evaluate appropriate sample preparation techniques for chromatographic and spectrometric analysis.

2. Interpret chromatographic and spectrometric data and investigate troubleshooting and problem solving strategies for chromatographic and otheranalytical systems.

3. Evaluate validation procedures for chromatographic methodsfor forensic and clinical samples.

4. Examine a range of electroanalytical methodologies and assess their role in forensic applications.

5. Assess and compare analytical features of advanced analytical techniques such as the detection capability and interferences of atomic spectrometry techniques

The students engage in an independent research project where they utilise the skills and competencies, that they have acquired in their programme of study, to research an area of forensic / analytical science.

1. Work independently on Forensic / Analytical problem.
2. Design experiments and/orcasework related experimentsand formulate a project plan
3. Execute experimental / practical activities, troubleshoot andproblem solvewithin a limited time frame
4. Present a report on literature review, methodology, research findings, analysis of results.
5. Interpret and evaluate research findings including the use of statistical tests and defend and critically appraise their research findings.

The systematic examination of environmental information that is used in litigation to allocate responsibility for contamination. The successful use of environmental forensics encompasses an understanding of a variety of disciplines and the wisdom to understand which forensic tool(s) are best suited for a particular set of facts. The module introduces the chemical and biological tools which can be used in Environmental Forensic Investigations.

1. Evaluatethe environmental liability legislation framework and evaluate the consequences of some major environmental pollution incidents.

2. Examine a range of sources and the fate ofenvironmental pollutants.

3. Design a programme for estimating the age and source of a pollution release.
4. Evaluate the scientific analytical methods used in establishing the nature of pollutants and assess the signature ofpollutants.

5. Statistically appraise the pollutant signature.

This module reinforces the crucial value of reliable and painstaking work at the crime scene. It builds on the skills introduced in crime scene investigation in year 2. Appropriate management of investigational information, preservation of the scene and collection of evidence is fundamental to the efficacy of subsequent laboratory based examination or analysis. Any short coming at the crime scene cannot be overcome by subsequent laboratory analysis or post analysis interpretation. The module will put the students in control of a simulated crime scene where they are required as teams to manage a crime scene from beginning to end. They will be required to maintain the integrity of the crime scene while managing the collection of physical evidence and commencement of the chain of custody.

1. Work effectively as part of an investigative team, as CS manager orCSI member, to process a simulated crime scene.

2. Appraise a simulated crime scene and carry out the steps required for the preservation and documentation (including photography) of the crime scene, organise a systematic search for evidence, collect, package and label evidence. Communicate the required testing rationale.

3. Learn to act in an unfamiliar environment such as a mock crime scene, managing and assessing tasks as they unfold, rationalizing information and communicating information in real time.
4. Evaluate the potential complexity of a crime scene and the many practical and legal constraints, including the need for timeliness.
5. Assess their personnel safety and the safety of team members, and take suitable control measures to protect scene and personnel

This module will provide the student with practical skills in the presentation of both oral and written evidence in a court of law. The module will provide strategies and practice for interpretation of forensic analytical results in a meaningful, structured, non biased manner in context with the intelligence data, databases, literature while maintaining continuity and scientific independence.

1. WriteForensic Scientist reports that are robust, balanced, impartial and transparent which are unbiased and comprehensibleto the intended recipient such as lawyers or a jury.

2. Assess the frequency of occurrence of evidential materials in order to aid the interpretation of analytical results, using databases, where appropriate, to support interpretation.

3. Prepare sections of the book of evidence and present oral evidence in mock court as an expert witness

4. Outlinenational legislation relevant to presentation of forensic science in court including issues relating to criminal law, laws of evidence,the courts and legal privilege.

The module introduces learners to the principles of toxicology and to toxicology testing and analysis.

1. Discuss the principles of toxicology and communicate information accurately and effectively using written, visual and numeral forms.

2. Outline the major drugs and toxins of forensic interest.
3. Describe the use of drugs in sport.
4. Explain the processes involved in the absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion of xenobiotics
5. Perform and report on, toxicological & analytical laboratory experiments.