Forensic Science

This book is the perfect starting point for any newcomer to the field of forensic science. It examines the entire process of conducting forensic science, from the collection of evidence at the crime scene, through the examination of that evidence, to the presentation of scientific findings in court. The book is scientifically rigorous but written in a friendly and engaging style making it the ideal companion for undergraduate students beginning a forensic science course; as background for MSc students; as a reference for related professions such as lawyers or police officers; or simply for the casual reader who wants to learn more about this fascinating area.

From reviews of the first edition:

'I recommend this book to all first-year forensic science students, but it also has something to say to those in more advanced years and even postgraduates. Lawyers, scene of crime investigators and police officers should also find this book of considerable interest.' 
Professor Brian Caddy, Former President of the Forensic Science Society – review for Education in Chemistry, Royal Society of Chemistry

'The authors convey serious messages in a rigorous but accessible and engaging manner. I would thoroughly recommend this text as an educational resource for all those teaching the early stages of courses incorporating forensic science and as an insightful and well-organised summary for those they teach.'
Professor Robert Hillman, Leicester University -  review for Higher Education Academy, Physical Sciences Centre

This book is the perfect starting point for any newcomer to the field of forensic science. It examines the entire process of conducting forensic science, from the collection of evidence at the crime scene, through the examination of that evidence, to the presentation of scientific findings in court. The book is scientifically rigorous but written in a friendly and engaging style making it the ideal companion for undergraduate students beginning a forensic science course; as background for MSc students; as a reference for related professions such as lawyers or police officers; or simply for the casual reader who wants to learn more about this fascinating area.

Key features

• Clear coverage of the core topics in forensic science
• A guest chapter on the rapidly-developing technique of DNA profiling
• Case studies appear throughout, putting everything in real-life context
• Chapter objectives and summaries highlight the key aspects of each topic
• End-of-chapter exercises help to reinforce learning
• A glossary of commonly used forensic science terms
• Additional material on forensic science techniques is provided in separate boxes

New for this edition

·    New section. The recovery of digital evidence from the crime scene (Chapter 2)

·    New section.The interpretation and evaluation of recoverable trace evidence (Chapter 3)

·    Expanded coverage. Forensic archaeology and its role in the location, excavation and recovery of human remains (Chapter 12)

·    New section. The Case Assessment and Interpretation (CAI) model (Chapter 13)

Dr Andrew Jackson is Principal Lecturer in forensic science at Staffordshire University, UK.

Dr Julie Jackson is a freelance science writer, with a background in biology.

Dr Harry Mountain (guest author of Chapter 6) is a Senior Lecturer in molecular biology at Staffordshire University, UK, with a special interest in forensic genetics.

Dan Brearley leads the Centre for Digital Forensics at Staffordshire University, UK.