The Police Use of Forensics in Criminal Investigations

The police use of forensic science is a vital part of the investigative process in the criminal justice system, but – in spite of its importance – this topic is relatively under-explored in the literature on the police and criminal investigation. What type of value does forensic science yield in an investigation? How do we define and record value? Is this value distributed evenly across different types of investigation? How, and under what conditions, can the police use forensic services both effectively and efficiently?

In this call, we are searching for an enthusiastic candidate, who wants to work at the cutting-edge of academic research and in formal collaboration, including a twelve-week placement) with partners in Forensic Services Northern Ireland and the Police Service of Northern Ireland.

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

This project is funded by:

• Department for the Economy (DfE)
• Vice Chancellor's Research Scholarship (VCRS)

Our fully funded PhD scholarships will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £19,237 (tbc) per annum for three years* (subject to satisfactory academic performance).  A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of £900 per annum is also available.

These scholarships, funded via the Department for the Economy (DfE) and the Vice Chancellor’s Research Scholarships (VCRS), are open to applicants worldwide, regardless of residency or domicile.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

*Part time PhD scholarships may be available, based on 0.5 of the full time rate, and will require a six year registration period (individual project advertisements will note where part time options apply).

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies .

Recommended reading

Fraser, J. (2007), 'The application of forensic science to criminal investigation'. Handbook of criminal investigation: 381-402.

Julian, R., Howes, L. & White, R. (2021), Critical forensic studies. Routledge.

Julian, R. & Kelty, S. F. (2015), 'Forensic science as “risky business”: identifying key risk factors in the forensic process from crime scene to court'. Journal of Criminological Research, Policy and Practice 1/4: 195-206.

Kiely, T. F. (2006), Forensic evidence: science and the criminal law. CRC Press/Taylor & Francis London.

Kruse, C. (2015), The social life of forensic evidence. University of California Press.

Lawless, C. (2022), Forensic science: A sociological introduction. Routledge.

Williams, R. (2012),'Policing and forensic science', Handbook of policing, 788-821: Willan.

Williams, R. & Weetman, J. (2013), 'Enacting forensics in homicide investigations'. Policing and Society 23/3: 376-389.

Wyatt, D. (2014), 'Practising crime scene investigation: trace and   contamination in routine work'. Policing and Society 24/4: 443-458