Microscopic Criminal Catchers
A research facility in southeastern Texas has been investigating the use of bacteria as a new forensics tool. Entomologist, Sibyl Bucheli, was inspired by her work with insects, and thought, “If insects change through time, then so do bacteria…And if insects can be used, so can the bacteria.” The researchers at the facility believe microbes could offer endless possibilities in enabling police investigations. Among these possibilities include improving time-of-death estimates, determining cause of death, linking individuals to things they have touched, and concluding if a body was moved after death. Although the research remains in the early stages of development, with practical uses for the research years away, the scientists eagerly take on this challenge of microscopic investigative analysis.
To read the full article and listen to the NPR broadcast, check out the link here!
Citation: Stein, R. NPR. Could Detectives Use Microbes To Solve Murders? Retrieved September 25, 2013 from http://www.npr.org/blogs/health/2013/09/23/219375086/could-detectives-use-microbes-to-solve-murders.
[Abstract written by Emily McGowan, ForensIQ Intern]
