Following are articles published by the National Institute of Justice
Advancing Justice for the Missing and Unidentified Through Research
Summary of a plenary panel from the 2024 NIJ Research Conference
Improving Analysis of “Trace DNA” Evidence
Researchers try a new way to maximize DNA in low-yield situations and reduce costs.
Determining the Age of a Sample Using RNA Sequencing
The forensic power of DNA is clear, but biological evidence also contains RNA, another potential source of information. Because RNA decomposes quickly, its utility is considered limited. Could this decomposition provide information about a sample’s age?
Embracing Next Generation Methods for Forensic DNA Sequence Analysis
The regions of the genome relied on for identification of individuals pose challenges for analysts because they often produce artifacts during processing. NIJ-funded research has led to a solution that lessens the artifact problem.
DNA at Our Fingertips
Forensic scientists have explored whether lifted and archived fingerprints retain forensically useful amounts of DNA.
Searching for the Missing in a City of Millions
The Value of Nonhuman Animal Models in Forensic Decomposition Research
Scientific inquiry into the process of decomposition has studied a wide range of mammals and developed a fundamental understanding of the stages of decomposition, but forensic scientists should use caution in applying nonhuman data to human bodies.
NIJ Funding: Supporting Emerging Scientists, Building Our Future
One influential scientist reflects on the pivotal role that NIJ funding has played during his prolific career in forensic science.