Fundamentals of Forensic Biology

This textbook for graduate students presents fundamental and essential principles of forensic biology. It covers the theory, principles, and applications of forensic biology, focusing on the easier understanding of the applicability of the topics. It discusses the subject with an aim to enhance the theoretical and practical knowledge of the subject and explore the potentials of the fields in modern-day crime scene investigation for researchers and practitioners of the field. The book is supplemented with real-life case studies from national and international cases, significant to the discipline or unique approach to evidence analysis. Notably, the textbook discusses forensic sample analysis, emerging trends and new technologies, and legal and ethical concepts about forensic investigations. It further presents the history and development of forensic DNA profiling and the role of DNA databases in forensic investigations. It elucidates the applications of nanotechnology in forensics and examines the role of forensics in attributing acts of bioterrorism or bioproliferation.

Avinash Chand Puri: He is working as a Scientific Officer in Forensic Biology and DNA division of Regional Forensic Science Laboratory, Home Ministry, Govt. of Madhya Pradesh. He has more than 7 years of experience in Forensic Biology, DNA and Serology. He has analyzed thousands of forensic exhibits of biological origin along with material objects of the deceased such as bone, muscle tissue, teeth etc) paternity dispute cases using DNA typing and submitted reports and deposed evidence in the Courts of Law,M.P. India. His research interest includes Forensic serology, Forensic biology, Population genetics, Forensic DNA testing and Molecular Biology. He has delivered and organized lectures in various institutes of Forensic field for officers of Criminal Justice System. He has published many research articles in the peer reviewed journals. He has developed and patent software regarding chain of custody (ACP). He has published books entitled -Handbook of forensic science and Sexual Assault an introduction.

Tanya Chauhan: She is working as Assistant Professor in Forensic Biology Division of LNJN National Institute of Criminology and Forensic Science, Ministry of Home Affairs Govt. of India at Delhi. She has more than 11 years of experience in Forensic Biology, Serology and DNA profiling. Her research Forensic DNA and Molecular Biology. She has organized short term training programs in Forensic field for senior officersof Criminal Justice System. She has published 14 research articles in the peer reviewed journals. She has also contributed the preparation and editing of Forensic Guide for Crime Investigator- Standard operating procedures, Standard protocol for the Medico-Legal Examination of Survivors and Standard protocol for the Medico-Legal Examination of Accused.She is a member of Association for the promotion of DNA Fingerprinting and other DNA Technologies (ADNAT), Bio-informatics organization, Masschusates and Science Advisory Board, United States.

N. Mahalakshmi: she is working as a deputy director, DNA Division, Forensic Sciences Department, she has also generated database for forensically relevant DNA markers (such as autosomal and Y-STRs and mtDNA) and HLA-DRB1 system for endogamous population of Tamil Nadu. She has published many research articles along with books.

Alka Mishra: She is presently working as a Scientific Officer in Regional Forensic Science Laboratory Gwalior. She is having seven years of experience in Forensic biology and published various publications in National & International journals.

Preeti Bhatnagar: She is presently working as a Scientific Officer in DNA Fingerprinting Unit- Regional Forensic Science Laboratory Bhopal. She is having seven years of experience in forensic biology and DNA, also served as Assistant Professor Microbiology in various educational institutions for more than 6 years.An eminent scholar, winner of Young Scientist Award, various publications in National & International journals.