The Very Short Introductions Podcast Forensic Science – The Very Short Introductions Podcast – Episode 24
Dec 31, 2020
Jim Fraser, a Research Professor in Forensic Science with over 40 years of experience, dives into the fascinating world of forensic science. He explores how crucial evidence like hair, blood traces, and fingerprints can unravel criminal cases. Fraser highlights innovative forensic techniques, including DNA profiling and digital forensics, discussing their implications in investigations. He also sheds light on the reliability challenges of fingerprint analysis and the dire consequences of errors in forensic science, such as wrongful convictions. Prepare for a captivating glimpse into the science behind crime-solving!
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Episode notes
Forensic Science Is Broad And Practical
- Forensic science spans many activities and roles beyond lab work and technology.
- Jim Fraser frames it as specialist techniques used to answer who, what, where, when, why and how.
Identification And Matching Drive Investigations
- Investigation focuses on identification, comparison and matching of samples from scenes.
- Fraser highlights DNA, drugs, fingerprints, shoe marks, tyre marks and cartridge cases as common comparisons.
Protect Evidence By Managing Scenes Carefully
- Preserve crime scenes carefully to minimise contamination and protect evidence value.
- Manage scene reconstruction so laboratory analyses can reliably link back to the events investigated.
