Forensics

Sep 28, 2015

Study: Ancestral Background Can Be Determined by Fingerprints

A proof-of-concept study finds that it is possible to identify an individual's ancestral background based on his or her fingerprint characteristics — a discovery with significant applications for law enforcement and anthropological research. 

Mar 6, 2014

Forensic Experts Compile Guide on How to ID Child Abuse, Starvation

Forensic science experts from NC State University are publishing a comprehensive overview of forensic research that can be used to identify child abuse and starvation. “By pulling all of this information together in one place, we hope we can save the lives of some children and find justice for others,” says Dr. Ann Ross, a professor of anthropology at NC State and lead author of the paper. 

Apr 3, 2013

April 2013 Student of the Month

Brittany Puckett is a senior majoring in Criminology with minors in Forensic Science and Spanish. She is interning at the Wake County District Attorney's Office, is a member of Delta Delta Delta sorority, and has been accepted to Elon University School of Law for Fall 2013. 

Mar 1, 2012

Foot Bones Allow Researchers To Determine Sex of Skeletal Remains

Law enforcement officials who are tasked with identifying a body based on partial skeletal remains have a new tool at their disposal. A paper recently published in the Journal of Forensic Sciences by Sheena Harris (MA, Anthropology '09) and Associate Professor of Anthropology Troy Case details how to determine the biological sex of skeletal remains based solely on measurements of the seven tarsal bones in the feet. 

Feb 2, 2012

CSI NC State: Forensics Lab Shines Light on Crime

Researchers from across campus, including key faculty from Humanities and Social Sciences, are working with law enforcement to transform the way we solve crimes. 

Jan 17, 2012

What do NC State scientists prefer: CSI or Law & Order?

For the cover story of this winter's NC State magazine, the NC State Alumni Association magazine's editor talked to researchers across campus who are teaming up to advance work in the area of forensic science. From studying blow flies to mapping skulls to developing a database of fabric dyes, these scientists are using their specialized knowledge to help solve crimes. Editor Sylvia Adcock ('81) says that while she enjoyed talking with the researchers--including CHASS anthropologist Ann Ross--about the very serious work they’re doing, she couldn’t resist asking them for their thoughts about the plethora of crime shows on television these days.