Forensic Research at ESR

Research underpins delivery of operational services to the justice system.

Much of our research is undertaken in collaboration with the New Zealand Police, overseas organisations and the University of Auckland Forensic Science Programme.

Research projects at ESR are aimed at: 

• developing analytical tools that link to identity
• making information and intelligence rapidly available
• planning for future technological requirements
  

Current projects include:

Scene and evidence interpretation:

• Blood Pattern analysis
• Crime scene screening methods
• Analysis of paint colour
• Discrimination of petrol
  

Biological research:

• Y chromosome profiling
• low copy number implementation
• pollen DNA
• identification of vaginal epithelial cells
• secondary transfer of DNA

Data information and management:

• shoeprint database construction
• forensic intelligence from sexual assault cases
• cost benefit analysis of DNA evidence

Drug profiling and detection:

• genetic variability of cannabis
• using biosensors to detect drugs
• drinking and drugged driver control  

Microbial forensics:

• post-mortem interval estimation
• damage to clothing after decomposition
• insect colonisation
• striation patterns
• volatile fatty acid analysis

The social impact of DNA technology:

• ethical and ethnic considerations
• Māori Tikanga and forensics