Policing, Criminology and Forensic Science Research Cluster

The members of this group come from a variety of disciplines – policing, criminology and forensic science – but have an important feature in common: a central focus on professional practice and policy development. There is a natural synergy between the interests of policing and forensic science – as well as criminology and others who focus on professional practice – to critically examine techniques that can assist intelligence, investigation and policy. These research interests and the experience of the group aligns closely with UoD research themes which focus on innovation and knowledge exchange in Public Services, as well as the optimisation of humans to thrive in complex and changing environments.

Our aims

Our work is based around making an impact and working towards the improvement of society by informing professional practice and public policy. Our focus will be research on intelligence, criminal (and some related aspects of corporate) investigation and criminal justice policy and practice across the domains of policing, criminology and forensic science. The combination of the three discipline areas below offers substantial opportunities to develop impactful research in promoting professional practice and evidence-based policy.

Research Cluster Leads

Dr David Hicks

I am a Senior Lecturer in Criminology, Programme Leader for the MSc Financial Investigation and Digital Intelligence, and Programme Leader for the MSc Criminal Investigation.

Dr Sebastien Moret

I am a Senior Lecturer in Forensic Science and Programme leader of the BSc in Forensic Science. I split my time between teaching and research.

Research Cluster Team

Cluster Members

Our research

Some of our projects aim to directly inform, or evaluate, policy and practice whilst others are contributing towards a wider evidence base on practice debates and policy development.

Policing and Social Sciences

Detection enhancement
Crime scene investigation and laboratory analysis
Financial and digital pathways
Criminal investigation as well as organised crime
Violence, abuse and exploitation
Evidence-based policing and police education
Security and disaster management

Forensic Science

Forensic Anthropology
Forensic Archaeology
Bioarchaeology
Palaeopathology
Childhood and adolescent health
Biological and social impact of disease
Environmental Health
Fingermark detection
Sensor development

Join us

If you are interested in joining this research centre or want to find out more, please get in touch with one of the cluster leads (Dr David Hicks and Dr Sebastien Moret).