Forensic & Analytical Science

The Forensic and Analytical Science theme has four research laboratories supporting research in crime scene analysis, forensic biochemistry and forensic chemistry, analytical toxicology and synthesis of novel analogues and proteins.

Crime Scene Investigation research explores the identification of evidence from complex environmental samples and the use of nanoparticles for detection and characterisation of biological materials to make a step-change in the way forensic evidence is gathered, evaluated, and delivered to the Criminal Justice System (CJS). Research also explores the characterisation of explosives and ammunition (including improvised explosive devices (IEDs), gun-shot residue (GSR) and energetic materials (with associated implications of terrorism) and their detection in fingerprints

Analytical and Forensic Toxicology research involves the investigation of alternative matrices for drug screening and evidential analysis such as synthetic oral fluid, latent fingerprints, fingermarks, blood spots and hair. This work seeks to exploit the potential for increased ease of collection and the advantage of different temporal detection windows available in contrast to blood and urine. Innovative ways in which screening tests can be developed to better inform drug use trends are explored.

Synthesis and detection of novel reference materials and standards is undertaken. We have the capacity to develop compounds otherwise not commercially available such as emerging synthetic cannabinoids and their metabolites as well as radiolabelled synthetic cannabinoids for medical imaging. We also apply in-vitro metabolism assays to detect and identify NPS metabolites and well as to discover new biomarkers of drug abuse.

Our research addresses some of the global analytical challenges presented to governments, the police and justice departments as well as to educators and service providers. Staff have specialist knowledge in High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Gas Chromatography (GC) - Mass Spectrometry (MS), LC-MS/MS, GC-Isotope-Ratio Mass Spectrometry (IR-MS) and GC-combustion (C)-IR-MS. These very sophisticated instruments detect trace concentrations of compounds in the nanogram (one billionth of a gram (10-9g)) to picogram (one trillionth of a gram (10-12g)) range.

Members

Vincenzo Abbate

Reader in Bioanalysis

Laurence Devesse

PhD Student

Nunzianda Frascione

Senior Lecturer in Forensic Science

James Gooch

UK IC Research Fellow

Analytical Toxicology: Analysis of therapeutics, drugs of abuse and NPS in seized powders and biological matrices

Detecting & identifying drug therapeutics, recreational drugs and NPS as well as biomarkers of disease using a combination of MS-based and imaging techniques.

Biomarkers of substance use and abuse

The research carried out by this group is concerned with the detection of drug use in different populations to under drug use behaviour in different populations

Cocaine Use Disorder

Exploring the prevalence and impact of cocaine use disorder and the forms of treatment currently available to patients with cocaine use disorder.

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Enhancing the evidential value of fingerprints and ‘touch-DNA'

This study explores different approaches to the detection and the enhancement of fingerprints, and investigates the nature of ‘touch DNA’.

Establishing a High-Risk Offender Scheme for Drug-Drivers

To explore the scientific evidence and make recommendations for the introduction of high-risk offender scheme for drug-drivers in England and Wales.

Exploring Alternative Matrices/Technology for the detection and identification of small molecules

The research of this group is concerned with the detection and identification of small molecules using different matrices and technology.

Forensic Biochemistry: Development of Biosensors for Forensic Analysis

Working on the design, development and implementation of biosensors able to produce a signal upon interaction with targets, allowing their real-time detection.

Intelligence from biological evidence through portable forensic analysis

This project focuses on the identification and development of intelligence leads from biological evidence and on their analysis using portable technologies.

The City of London Police Fingerprint Bureau, which consists of both the Bureau itself and the Fingerprint Enhancement Laboratory, has experts with over 85 years’ experience in fingermark interpretation between them.

The Fingerprint Enhancement Laboratory is accredited to ISO 17025 international standard and has technicians that can provide both in-house and crime scene fingerprint development and recovery. The laboratory uses a range of recovery techniques using state of the art technology.

Fingerprint Enhancement Lab

Contact the Fingerprint Enhancement Laboratory: Tracy Alexander (Director Forensic Services) Tracy.Alexander@cityoflondon.police.uk