BSc (Hons) Forensic and Analytical Science Bachelor's degree at Huddersfield

Introduction to basic forensic techniques, the scientific principles underlying them, and the mathematics, statistics and computing tools used to present scientific findings. Techniques include fingerprint development, spot tests for blood stains, identification of glass fragments, microscopic examination of hairs and fibres and methods for determining alcohol and drugs in the blood.

Introduction to the range of skills required in modern analytical science and how analytical methodology underpins scientific investigation. Development of ability to obtain and interpret a wide range of spectroscopic data in a systematic and logical fashion.

Chemistry of the elements, their origin, structure and properties. Structure and bonding in chemical compounds, constituents of the earth's crust and the chemistry of the atmosphere.

Recognition of functional groups and systematic naming of compounds. Structure and bonding in organic compounds, concepts of the octet rule, orbital hybridisation, formal charge, bond polarisation and resonance. Molecular geometry, molecular conformation and stereochemistry. Mechanism and reaction intermediates. Chemistry of the principal functional groups.

Assessment: Continuously assessed practical course

Units, conversions and properties of ideal and non-ideal gases. Solution chemistry of acids, bases and salts. Reaction kinetics and catalysis. Introductory thermodynamics.

Overview of commonly encountered evidence types at crime scenes, crime scene specific issues such as location, recovery, packaging contamination, health and safety. Forensic significance of evidence, crime scene management, continuity and integrity of evidence, photography. Introduction to the legal system, report production and defending witness statements. Introduction to Digital Forensics and Cyber Crime.

Introduction to selected topics in modern biology suitable for students of forensic science and chemistry. Structure and function of biological macromolecules, protein structure, enzyme structure and function, basic metabolism. Cellular and molecular biology including gene cloning, PCR and DNA fingerprinting. Systems of the human body relevant to forensic science: blood and cardiovascular system, gastrointestinal tract, liver and kidney.

Builds upon concepts and techniques introduced in Practical Forensic Science 1. Emphasis on practical problem solving, recording of work and statistical and critical analysis of results. Introduction to further instrumental techniques including chromatography and mass spectrometry. Samples include poisons, restricted drugs and explosive residues.

Consolidation of interpretative skills from Analytical Science 1 extended to analysis of spectra from complex organic molecules. Introduction to widely used forms of chromatography and application areas. Introduction to instrumental analyses including atomic spectroscopy, thermal methods and electrochemical techniques, and statistical methodology.

Methods of forming carbon-carbon single and double bonds. Advanced aspects of carbonyl chemistry. Role of main-group elements in synthesis. Retrosynthetic analysis. Synthesis and reactions of simple heterocyclic compounds. Chemistry of carbohydrates and amino acids. Advanced aspects of stereochemistry and relationship between conformation and reactivity.

Assessment: Practical component focusing on preparation, isolation and analysis of target molecules

Chemistry of transition metal (d-block) elements. Concepts of coordination chemistry and bonding in complexes. Optical and magnetic properties explained by Crystal Field Theory. Advanced aspects of coordination chemistry including chelates, macrocycles, organometallic and supramolecular species. Behaviour of solid materials including band theory, defects and crystal structures.

Six topics: equilibrium and dynamic electrochemistry, phase equilibria, colloids and colloidal suspensions, colligative properties, kinetics of composite reactions and quantum theory – basic principles and simple applications.

Normally a 48 week placement in a suitable organisation. Placements available within the UK and abroad. Students visited up to twice a year by University tutor. Opportunity to experience employment within organisations related to chosen pathway and improve technical and social skills.

Forensic investigation of evidence building on material from second year modules. General forensic science principles and their application to investigations. Principles include Bayesian Inference applied to biological and non-biological evidence types such as forensic genetics, body fluid identification, taphonomy, impressions, drugs and toxicology.

Relationship between the forensic scientist and the justice system. Criminal and civil law. Presentation of evidence and role and responsibility of the expert witness. Quality systems requirements for presenting robust evidence. Ethical practice. Quality assurance procedures and importance of standard operating procedures in relation to accreditation (ISO17020 and ISO17025).

Chemically-based independent research programme. Comprehensive review of literature related to project. Planning in light of current state of research field. Open ended project involving advanced laboratory and instrumental techniques. Results presented in thesis and talk.

Series of specialist workshops incorporating theoretical and practical aspects in specialist forensic science disciplines not covered elsewhere in the course.

Expansion of basic description of separation science provided earlier in the course.