Forensic biology
DNA

The overall aim of the forensic biologist is to identify the nature and source of biological material found at a crime scene.  This will help investigators determine 'what happened' at the scene. The techniques used vary from simple biochemical tests to high-end molecular biological analysis. These techniques can deduce vast amounts of information from even microscopic traces of biological material. This information may identify who was at the scene, or provide useful intelligence as to who that person might be.

Our research focuses on two main areas:

Addressing the specific needs of the criminal investigation community. Current and recent projects are:

  • The recovery of DNA from fired cartridge cases.
  • The inadvertent transfer of DNA onto clothing during daily activity.
  • The efficient DNA decontamination of laboratory and crime scene consumables.

The application of modern molecular biology techniques to advancing the scope of forensic science. Projects include using next generation techniques such as Massively Parallel Sequencing to investigate:

  • The genetics of facial morphology to assist in identification intelligence.
    See "Using DNA to paint a face story" on the ABC website. 
  • The genetics behind fingerprint patterns.
  • The human microbiome and its ability to assist in identification.

Publications

Gunn, P., Walsh, S. J., & Roux, C. (2014). The nucleic acid revolution continues – will forensic biology become forensic molecular biology? Front Genet, 5. doi:10.3389/fgene.2014.00044
    
Gunn, P. R., Roebuck, H., & Summerell, A. (2017). Forensic Biology. In I. Freckleton & H. Selby (Eds.), Expert Evidence. Melbourne: Thomson Reuters.
    
Pullan, L., & Gunn, P. (2016). Identification of bacteria in forensically relevant body fluids Paper presented at the Australian & New Zealand Forensic Science Society, Auckland, New Zealand
    
Wilson-Wilde, L., Yakovchyts, D., Neville, S., Maynard, P., & Gunn, P. (2017). Investigation into ethylene oxide treatment and residuals on DNA and downstream DNA analysis. Science & Justice, 57(1), 13-20. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scijus.2016.09.001

Acknowledgement of Country

UTS acknowledges the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, the Boorooberongal people of the Dharug Nation, the Bidiagal people and the Gamaygal people, upon whose ancestral lands our university stands. We would also like to pay respect to the Elders both past and present, acknowledging them as the traditional custodians of knowledge for these lands.