Finalist, South Australian Science Excellence and Innovation Awards

Category: Excellence in Science and Industry Collaboration

The successful and longstanding collaboration between researchers at Flinders University and Forensic Science SA (FSSA), a key organisation in the state’s justice system, is driving innovation in forensic science and educating the next generation of scientists and investigators. Forensic science teaching has both an academic and operational focus, ensuring that practical methodology is continually developed as new discoveries come to light, and that students graduate with a suite of practical, work-ready skills.
This partnership has harnessed artificial intelligence to read DNA profiles more effectively, delivered new and more efficient ways for crime investigators to locate, record and collect DNA, as well as producing DNA profiles faster than ever before, has developed a unique way to link gunshot residues on a shooting victim to the ammunition used in the shooting, and has identified signatures in illicit drugs showing how they are made, allowing authorities to proactively legislate to reduce supply. This collaboration is driving innovation, increasing public confidence in criminal investigations, and developing new techniques used by forensic agencies worldwide.