Dr David Ballard

I gained my first degree in Physiology from University College London in 1998, my MSc in Forensic Science from King’s College London in 2000, and my PhD titled “Characterization and differentiation of three British population groups” from the University of London in 2013. I am a senior lecturer in forensic genomics as well as the programme director for the MSc/MRes Forensic Science programmes. In this role, I lead these postgraduate degree programmes and teach forensic genetics at both undergraduate and postgraduate level.

For the last 20 years I have combined forensic casework activity, as the principal scientist within the ISO17025 accredited DNA analysis at King’s laboratory (previously based at Queen Mary, University of London), with conducting research in the area of forensic genetics. This dual role has provided an uncommon opportunity to rapidly move research discoveries in the field of human identity into casework practice.

My current research interests are focused on massively parallel sequencing technologies and DNA intelligence applications including metagenomics and phenotype prediction. Please see my PURE profile for more details. I have published over 50 research articles that have gained over 2000 citations. Additionally, I am a member of the International Society of Forensic Genetics DNA Commission tasked to develop new international standards for the use of next generation sequencing technology in forensic DNA applications and recommend new nomenclature standards. I am also a member of the editorial board of Forensic Science International: Genetics.