In this module you will explore the interface of chemistry and biology in a forensic context. There will be discussion of how chemistry and biology can be used together at scenes as well as potential future developments. This module will take you through principles of chemical and biological interaction at a cellular level, and also consider how biological materials can react with chemicals (eg blood, semen, saliva) to provide indication of their presence at scenes. This will explore the reaction mechanisms that occur and how we can design systems to improve analysis.

Further consideration will be given to how the human body responds to chemicals, specifically those of forensic interest such as drugs of abuse (eg NPSs), poisons and toxins (eg organophosphates), identifying key routes by which these affect the human body.

1. Sales-style brochure for a hypothetical new product (80%) – as a group develop a theoretical new product that relies on the interaction of chemistry and biology for the advancement of forensic science or scene investigation. The brochure should demonstrate how the product would work, its application, theoretical costs and benefits.
2. Group presentation (20%) – 15 minute presentation / pitch of the product.

There will be a mix of tutor-led lectures presenting key theories and cases and further workshops to allow for group working and development of ideas that lead to the assessed output.

1. Explain how chemistry can influence the detection and analysis of biological material and vice versa.
2. Identify specific chemical interactions that occur in scene analysis (for example the formation of imines in fingermark visualisation techniques)
3. Discuss mechanisms by which chemicals can interact with the human body including drugs / poisons.
4. Communicate effectively to contribute to group work in tutorials and assessment

This module combines your knowledge of chemistry and biology along with your creative thinking to conside how we could analyse crime scenes in the future, find new ways to interpret biological evidence, and understand the interaction of chemicals with the human body. Explore the latest advancements in science as applied to forensics and think how we can use chemistry and biology together to enhance future practices.