Advances in Forensic Biology and Genetics

The book explores the interdisciplinary field that merges biochemistry, cell biology, molecular biology, and genetics to unravel the mysteries of biological evidence in forensic investigations. Delving into the core of this dynamic discipline, the book unveils how forensic biological scientists leverage a diverse range of techniques to address complex questions posed by investigative agencies.

The book meticulously covers different facets of forensic biology, from uncovering the origins of crucial body fluids to predicting the post-mortem time interval, while deciphering the cause and manner of death to individualizing biological samples. This book consolidates the latest breakthroughs in forensic biology and genetics, embracing both human and non-human DNA analyses, helpful for the forensic biological scientists. Chapters are written by researchers and practitioners from around the world.

This book serves as an indispensable resource for investigating officers, forensic scientists, medical practitioners, researchers, and students.

Dr. Hirak Ranjan Dash is an Associate Professor of Forensic Biology and Biotechnology at CUTM, Bhubaneswar affiliated with the National Forensic Sciences University, India. Before joining academics, he worked as a Forensic DNA expert at Forensic Science Laboratory, Madhya Pradesh, India. He has examined more than 1000 cases by DNA fingerprinting technique. His research interests include DNA fingerprinting, Microbial forensics, microbiome analysis, Next Generation Sequencing, and mtDNA analysis. He has published more than 40 research papers in various peer-reviewed journals. He has written 10 books in various fields of Biotechnology. He is a life member and served as a reviewer for various international journals. He is the pioneer worker from India on NGS-based forensic DNA analysis. He is featured in the list of the top 2% scientists of the world for 2021, 2022, and 2023.

Dr. Kelly M. Elkins is a Professor of Chemistry at Towson University, USA, founding co-editor-in-chief of an international journal, and former Director of the Forensic Science Program at the Metropolitan State College of Denver. She is a Fellow of both the American Academy of Forensic Sciences and the American Chemical Society. Her research interests include improving DNA recovery, applying forensic DNA typing to historic human remains, development of assays for bioterror agents, detection and identification of novel psychoactive substances and plant drugs, and ethics in forensic science. She has published more than 60 research papers in peer-reviewed journals and book chapters and 7 books on various topics in forensic chemistry and forensic biology. She has consulted on paternity, unidentified human remains, and other unsolved cases. Her work has been funded by numerous agencies and she was featured in the list of top 2% scientists of the world for 2019.

Dr. Noora Rashid Al-Snan is a distinguished expert in forensic biology and genetics, with a strong academic and professional background that spans nearly two decades. She holds a Ph.D. in Molecular Medicine, specializing in Medical Genetics, and has significantly contributed to the field through her innovative research and numerous publications. Dr. Al-Snan's work focuses on advanced DNA analysis techniques, forensic genetics, and the development of new methodologies for crime scene investigation. As an esteemed member of several international forensic science organizations, Dr. Al-Snan has played a pivotal role in promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and advancing forensic education. She has been honored with several international awards for her contributions. Her dedication to the field is evident in her active involvement in forensic casework, teaching, and mentoring the next generation of forensic scientists. Dr. Al-Snan's commitment to excellence and her passion for forensic science have earned her recognition and respect among her peers. Her leadership and expertise have been instrumental in shaping this volume, making it an invaluable resource for professionals and students alike.