The Mensa Forensic Science Day IV

University of Huddersfield

Saturday 20th February 2010

10.00am to 4.30pm

Forensic science refers to the use of scientific techniques in the investigation of criminal cases. From its inception in the 1930s it has evolved into a complex science encompassing chemistry, biology, physics, botany, zoology, entomology, anthropology, medicine, dentistry, psychology and psychiatry.

The Forensic Science Day will give you a basic understanding of both the theoretical and practical aspects of this fascinating subject. No previous knowledge is required. Please note if bringing children that blood, knives and bullets will form visual/physical parts of the practical sessions.

The University of Huddersfield was established in 1825 and the Queensgate campus is now a leading site for training forensic scientists. This event will be led by the head forensic scientist and their team.

The cost is £32.00 per adult or £26.00 per child. This includes exclusive use of the laboratories and lecture theatre, all materials, protective clothing, lectures, buffet lunch and refreshments. Families and guests are most welcome. The nature of the activities means that places are limited to 50 participants. Booking deadline is 12th February 2010.

This event is being organised exclusively for British Mensa by Maruba Events in conjunction with The University of Huddersfield and The BA

10.00am-10.30am

Arrival and registration.

10.30am-11.10am

Lecture: “An introduction to forensics”.

A frank look at the subject area; the reality, its use, its limitations.

11.10am-11.20am

Tea/coffee break.

11.20am-12.40pm

Participants will be split into two groups and rotate between two interactive sessions (40 minutes each) on bloodstain pattern analysis and forensic computing.

12.40pm-1.25pm

Buffet lunch including vegetarian options and hot and cold drinks.

1.25pm-3.40pm

Participants will be split into four groups and rotate between four practical hands-on sessions (30 minutes each)with a tea/coffee break mid-afternoon. Please wear casual clothes but no open toed shoes.

  • Drugs or a dangerous concoction? The analysis of unknown samples at crime scenes.
  • Clothing damage analysis. How evidence from clothing can suggest the weapon.
  • DNA from clothing. How scientists extract DNA from victims.
  • Comparison microscopy. Analysis of cartridge casings and shotgun shells.
  • Drugs or a dangerous concoction? The analysis of unknown samples at crime scenes.
  • Clothing damage analysis. How evidence from clothing can suggest the weapon.
  • DNA from clothing. How scientists extract DNA from victims.
  • Comparison microscopy. Analysis of cartridge casings and shotgun shells.

3.40pm-4.15pm

Lecture: “DNA profiling in CSI”.

A talk on the present and future methods of DNA profiling at the crime scene.

4.15pm-4.30pm

Question and answer session then goodbyes.

Open Forensic Science Day IV PDF. Requires Acrobat Reader.