forensic science honours projects · formally assessed. the remaining 12 credit points of study are...

School of Mathematical & Physical Sciences

Centre for Forensic Science

UT

S C

RIC

OS

PR

OV

IDE

R C

OD

E 0

0099F

Forensic Science Honours Projects: Autumn 2019 RELEASE 1

Contents

General information 4

Application & Admission 4

Bachelor of Forensic Science (Honours) 5

Master of Science (Honours) / Master of Philosophy in Forensic Science 5

Commencing your Honours project 6

Crime Scene & Forensic Imaging 7

Image resolution for bloodstain measurement 8

SLS scanning vs photogrammetry and casting for footwear impressions 9

Camera image calculations to reconstruct crime scene positions 10

Vehicle Speed determination from CCTV 11

Perception of depth using VR technology 12

Criminalistics 13

A protocol for locating, extracting, analysis and identifying traces of personal care products on clothing 14

The influence of lifestyle on background or contaminating fibres recovered from clothing 15

Investigating the rates of corrosion to determine the age of fired cartridge cases in the field. 16

Investigating the use of Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) techniques to visualise obliterated serial numbers – Thermal/Infrared Testing 17

The degradation of rayon in multi-purpose cloths in different soil types within the Sydney region 18

Liquid chromatography - tandem mass spectrometry for identification of body fluids 19

Fingermark Detection 20

Exploring the relationship between substrate chemistry and fingermark detection 21

Success rate of powders versus conventional laboratory methods for the detection of fresh marks 22

Fingerprints from disposable gloves - a systematic review 23

Fingermark detection: what is the best approach to assess the quality of a technique 24

Inkjet printing of artificial blood fingermarks 25

Detection sequences for fingermarks on body wrappings 26

Fire Investigation 27

Analysis of chemical agents used in the extinguishment of fire 28

Analysis of tile flooring materials for background contaminants 29

Forensic Genetics 30

Automated library preparation for massively parallel sequencing (MPS) 31

Prediction of biogeographical ancestry in Asia 32

Forensic Interpretation 33

Further research into a probabilistic approach to fingermark identification 34

Further research into a probabilistic approach to toolmark (or bullet/casing) examination 35

Phalange Ridge Flow Trends 36

Bayesian networks for the evaluation of simple paint cases 37

Forensic Taphonomy 38

Textile degradation in human burials 39

Profiling the variability of nuclear DNA degradation in post-mortem human body tissues 40

Profiling the seasonal variability of decomposition odour from human remains 41

Forensic Toxicology & Drug Detection 42

The use of stable isotope ratio mass spectrometry for methylamphetamine profiling: Isotopic profiling of phenyl-2-propanone (P2P) 43

Urinary steroid biomarkers to detect the misuse of testosterone in male entire horses by GC-MS-MS. 45

Investigation of biomarkers for longitudinal profiling of equine plasma by LC-MS-MS. 46

General information

General information

The project proposals listed in this booklet are available to students enrolling in the Bachelor of Forensic

Science (Honours) in Applied Chemistry (C09050) and Master of Science (Honours) (C04267) / Master

of Philosophy in Forensic Science (C04393) courses. All of the listed projects are designed to run for a

standard 37 week academic calendar year. Autumn intake projects commence on Monday 25 Feburary

2019.

In Honours, students will gain direct training in the skills required for undertaking research in forensic

science as well as further developing their investigative and communication skills. Honours degrees offer

the opportunity for students to undertake a research project within one of the research groups at UTS or

collaboratively with an external organisation. The aim of the Honours program is to produce professional

forensic scientists with highly adaptable and practical scientific skills.

Application & Admission

There are two application processes for Honours courses in the Faculty of Science and these are course

specific. For further information and to download the forms, visit https://www.uts.edu.au/future-

students/science/science-courses/honours-courses.

Bachelor of Forensic Science (Honours) applicants will need to apply to the course by submitting a UTS

Direct Application Form. Direct application forms are due by 30 November 2018.

Master of Science (Honours) / Master of Philosophy in Forensic Science applicants will need to lodge an

internal course transfer request with the Student Centre to transfer from their Master of Science / Master

of Forensic Science coursework course. Internal course transfer requests for Autumn commencement

must be made by 16 November 2018.

Applicants to both courses will also need to submit the supplementary Faculty of Science Honours

application form with their top three (3) project preferences listed in order. You only need to complete

sections 1-5. Prospective students are encouraged to speak to potential UTS supervisors before

selecting their projects (contact details are listed on each project proposal). Faculty of Science

supplementary application forms must be submitted to [email protected] (cc to the Program

Director, [email protected]) by the dates listed above.

Successful applicants to both Honours degrees must have completed a UTS-recognised bachelor's

degree in a relevant discipline at an appropriate level. Applicants to the Bachelor of Forensic Science

(Honours) course must have attained at least a credit average (≥ 65) over the final two-thirds of their

undergraduate program. Successful applicants to the Master of Science (Honours) course should

demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and research potential to be considered for enrolment.

Applicants typically complete 48 cp of coursework (1 year full time equivalent) prior to commencing their

research project.

More detailed information on the course structure and international admission requirements can be found

in the UTS Handbook.

https://www.uts.edu.au/future-students/science/science-courses/honours-courses


mailto:[email protected]


General information

Bachelor of Forensic Science (Honours)

The course comprises 48 credit points of study, consisting of two academic stages. The major

component of the course (75%, 36 cp) is a research project that extends over the full duration of the

course and normally takes the form of an experimental investigation. The project is undertaken within

one of the research groups at UTS in the area of forensic science. Projects may also be undertaken in

collaboration with an external partner. Projects are chosen by the student, although first preferences

cannot always be accommodated. As part of the project, students undertake a critical review of the

existing literature in their research area and develop a research plan for the year.

The results of the project are presented in an oral seminar and in a written thesis, both of which are

formally assessed. The remaining 12 credit points of study are coursework: Complex Forensic Cases

(Chemistry) in Autumn semester and Expert Evidence Presentation in Spring semester. Students may

enrol in the course for Autumn or Spring intake.

Students who have completed the Bachelor of Forensic Biology (Biomedical Science) will receive credit

recognition for 65743 and 65863 provided they have successfully completed 91139 Complex Forensic

Cases (Biology) and 79028 Complex Forensic Cases (Law for Biology).

Master of Science (Honours) / Master of Philosophy in

Forensic Science

The Master of Science (Honours) provides students with a unique opportunity to undertake original

research and gain in-depth knowledge in their chosen discipline of forensic science. The project is

undertaken within one of the research groups at UTS in the area of forensic science. Projects may also

be undertaken in collaboration with an external partner. This course is designed to provide a scholarship

pathway to the PhD program.

The course requires 96 credit points of study, comprising 24 credit points of professional stream

subjects, a 24 cp major and a 48 cp intensive research component. The Honours research project

extends over the final year and normally takes the form of an experimental, analytical or theoretical

investigation. As part of the project, students undertake a critical review of the existing literature in their

research area and develop a research plan for the year. The results of the project are presented in an

oral seminar and in a written thesis, both of which are formally assessed.

General information

Commencing your Honours project

The Honours project accounts for most or all of your study load for academic year and will involve active

experimental work, data analysis, reading literature, and writing. UTS safe work practices and the Faculty

of Science after hours work procedures encourage you to complete your laboratory work during core

office hours (weekdays 9 am – 5pm) whenever possible. If you do need to perform experimental work

out-of-hours you should discuss any arrangements with your supervisor.

There is no set number of hours you need to be on campus or weekly timetable for research (except for

timetabled coursework), although we tend to advise 36cp students to be research-active 4 days per week

and 48cp students to be research-active 5 days per week. What you gain from your Honours year is

proportional to the effort you are willing to make. Most research groups have regular progress meetings

that involve project updates and paper reviews or presentations. The Centre for Forensic Science also

holds regular research seminars and meetings that are compulsory for research students.

You are expected to work with your supervisor to prepare a project plan in the initial weeks of semester.

Laboratory inductions and the risk management plan should be completed during the first two weeks of

your project as these processes are essential for gaining security access. Your supervisor can provide

you further guidance on how to schedule and complete your induction and risk management plan.

Each Honours research thesis subject will have an UTSOnline page that will be updated with the subject

outline and research support materials. It will also be the primary route of contact for the Honours

program director to update you on upcoming seminars, events, and assessments.

Please note that the supervisory panels listed for each project are indicative only. Your

supervisory panel may change closer to the commencement of your project.

Crime Scene & Forensic Imaging

Crime scene & forensic imaging

Bachelor of Forensic Science (Honours) in Applied Chemistry

# 1

Project keywords: blood stains, imaging resolution, smart phone cameras, process improvement

Title Image resolution for bloodstain measurement

Nature of problem

work is intended to

address

Bloodstains are often used to calculate activity at a crime scene, including type

of weapon, number of strikes, handedness of offender, height of offender,

location of victim, etc. Imaging of bloodstains is a highly technical task, due to

the requirement to avoid all distortions in the image. Traditionally, this type of

crime scene imagery has required high-resolution imaging equipment and long

set-up times.

More recently, imaging equipment such as personal tablets and smart phones

have become ubiquitous. There is an opportunity to use these cheap and

portable devices in the crime scene to improve scene processing efficiency.

New analysis techniques may also focus on the capture of large areas of

bloodstain at suitable resolutions for analysis, rather than imaging single

droplets at a time.

Outline of

goals/objectives

Determine the effect of lower-resolution imagery on the accuracy of

bloodstain ellipse measurement

Calculate errors and accuracy of origin determinations made using lower-

resolution imagery

Determine the minimum resolution required for acceptable bloodstain ellipse

measurement

Determine whether larger clusters of bloodstains can be captured sufficiently

well in a single photo or scan

Industry/external

partner Forensic Imaging Section, New South Wales Police

Special

requirements N/A

UTS supervisor Philip Maynard

External supervisor Domenic Raneri

Contact [email protected]





# 2

Project keywords: 3D scanning, crime scene imaging, footwear impressions

Title SLS scanning vs photogrammetry and casting for footwear impressions

Nature of problem work is intended to address

The use of high end scanners with known, certified accuracy is well established

and is beginning to see use for footwear analysis. Photogrammetry is a

cheaper and more accessible tool, at the cost of time and additional steps to

ensure the accuracy of the result. A comparison of the two techniques is

required to answer the following questions:

Which technique records the greatest amount of detail?

Which technique is most reliable?

What substrates are most suited to each technique?

Does non-contact 3D scanning record as much/more detail than

casting impressions?

What is the precision and accuracy of each technique?

Which substrates are best suited for one technique or the other?

Outline of goals/objectives

The aims of this project are to:

Acquire 3D scans of footwear impressions at high resolutions

Carry out photogrammetry of the impressions and cast them

Carry out statistical analysis to quantify precision and accuracy of the

results

Industry/external partner

Forensic Imaging Section, New South Wales Police

Special requirements

N/A

UTS supervisors Philip Maynard, Sebastien Moret


Contact [email protected] [email protected]





# 3

Project keywords: Photogrammetry, control points

Title Camera image calculations to reconstruct crime scene positions


The position of a camera used to record an event may often be questioned,

and this can be calculated using photogrammetry. This is useful to determine

the location of a witness recording video evidence of an event, or the speed of

a vehicle with a dash-cam or CCTV camera. This is performed by mapping

control points from a scene survey or laser scan to image frames from the

video, which calculates a location of the camera.

How accurately can a camera's position be determined?

How reliable is this method?

What is the effect of reduced image quality (ie, motion blur, resolution,

etc) on these calculations?

What is the effect of uneven control point distribution on these

calculations?


This aim of this project is to:

Acquire images of a scene using various reduced camera resolutions

and other image degradations

Acquire images of control points in the scene using various positions

and numbers of points

Carry out statistical analysis to quantify precision and accuracy of the

results











# 4

Project keywords: CCTV images, position/speed calculations

Title Vehicle Speed determination from CCTV


Video footage of vehicles involved in traffic collisions are examined by police to

calculate vehicle position and speed from multiple CCTV frames. This process

requires validation and investigation of sources of error.

How accurate and precise is the method?

What requirements should be in place for this technique to be used?

How accurately is the vehicle position determined?

Best practice validation of video frame time

Image quality standards and effect of distortions



Acquire CCTV footage of objects in motion at controlled velocities

Examine the footage for reproducibility and error rates in the results

Examine the effect of degraded image quality on the calculations and

resultant errors




N/A








# 5

Project keywords: Virtual reality, depth perception

Title Perception of depth using VR technology


VR technology is used to give a true sense of space and depth, allowing a user

to view sightlines and trajectories. Depth perception is based on an individual’s

experience with their own Interpapillary distance (IPD), which is adjustable on

the headset.

With a fixed IPD, how accurately can people estimate/perceive

distances?

With the limited resolution of the headset, at what range are people’s

perceptions affected by the lack of pixels?



Acquire VR data sets of various scenes, including control points for

distance measurement

Vary the IPD within the headset and record the perceived distances

observed by viewers




N/A






Criminalistics

Criminalistics


# 6

Project keywords: cosmetics, frequency, chemical criminalistics, analytical chemistry, method development

Title A protocol for locating, extracting, analysis and identifying traces of personal care products on clothing


The Chemical Criminalistics Unit of the NSW Forensic & Analytical Science

Service has recently had a number of requests in which the analysis of clothing

for body oils, lotions or cosmetics was requested. Currently solvent extraction

followed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry is most commonly used for

such testing. This project would assist us in optimising the sensitivity of our

testing regime in case involving these products and potentially determine

additional testing or equipment that could be used.

It is envisaged that the work would be publishable, assisting the wider forensic

community to produce protocols of their own for examination of such cases.

It would be expected that a student undertaking this case would need minimal

assistance in term of laboratory resources: the laboratories at UTS have the

necessary analytical equipment available; minimal and inexpensive materials (a

variety of lotion, oil and cosmetic samples, and different fabric types) would be

needed to prepare samples for testing and analysis; minimal commitment by the

external supervisors would be required (~ 1 hr a week, mostly concentrated in

the initial and final stages).


To determine the best available technique(s) for determining the presences of

traces of body lotion/oils and cosmetics etc on clothing, and their subsequent

extraction, analysis and identification within the CCU.


NSW Forensic & Analytical Science Service Chemical Criminalistics Unit


N/A

UTS supervisor Dr Scott Chadwick

External supervisor Dr Jo Bunford


[email protected]



Criminalistics


# 7

Project keywords: interpretation, chemical criminalistics, microscopy, frequency, spectroscopy

Title The influence of lifestyle on background or contaminating fibres recovered from clothing


Extraneous fibres transferred to a garment can provide important reconstructive

or linkage evidence. The significance of the recovered fibres is dependent on a

number of factors with varying complexity and level of characterisation in the

forensic science literature. The interpretation of these traces can become

difficult in cases where small collectives of fibres are recovered from an item,

which may be indicative of differential shedding, secondary transfer, background

fibres transferred by unrelated activities or significant fibres loss after the

transfer.

At the moment, very little is known about how pre-transfer activity factors impact

on fibre interpretation. A pilot study into the prevalence of fibres accumulated

during day-to-day activities and interpersonal contact suggested that a person’s

social contact, mode of transport, and level of activity influence the number and

type of background fibres on their t-shirts. This project will expand on the pilot

study with a comprehensive participant survey, different collection fabrics and a

larger donor population.


The objectives of this study are to:

Characterise background fibre populations and expected distributions on

clothing obtained through day-to-day activities.

Determine whether there are the lifestyle factors that correlate with high

populations of background fibres.

Use this information to aid in the interpretation of fibre traces.


N/A


Human research ethics approval required

UTS supervisors Dr Xanthe Spindler and Prof. Claude Roux

External supervisor N/A




Criminalistics


# 8

Project keywords: Corrosion, fired cartridge cases, age determination

Title Investigating the rates of corrosion to determine the age of fired cartridge cases in the field.

Nature of problem

work is intended to

address

Investigators have previously questioned ballistics examiners as to the length of

time a fired cartridge case has been at a scene, to assist in their investigations

into firearm-related incidents and crimes. The questions have specifically

requested information regarding the age of the fired cartridge case based on the

appearance and/or corrosion on the surface of the fired cartridge case.

The NSWPF Forensic Ballistics Section is investigating this project after

receiving such a query from a homicide detective and has commenced a small-

scale project at the SPC and home location. One possible avenue of

investigation is to determine the age of the fired cartridge case based on weight

loss due to ‘dezincification’ (loss of zinc from the brass alloy) using the formula

T = 87.6 (W/DARCorr); where:

RCorr = Corrosion rate;

W = Weight loss in milligrams;

D = Density of metal;

A = surface area of sample; and

T = Time of exposure.

Outline of

goals/objectives

Investigate if any methods are available that could be used to determine the age

of fired cartridge cases based upon their appearance and/or rate of corrosion

Industry/external

partner NSWPF Forensic Ballistics

Special

requirements

Fired cartridge cases and different environments to place the fired cartridge

cases (i.e. soil types, humidity levels etc.).

UTS supervisor TBC

External supervisor Scientific Officer Matthew Bolton

Contact Please contact the Honours coordinator ([email protected]) for more

information


Criminalistics


# 9

Project keywords: obliterated serial numbers, thermal/Infrared, ballistics

Title Investigating the use of Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) techniques to visualise obliterated serial numbers – Thermal/Infrared Testing

Nature of problem

work is intended to

address

Criminals often remove serial numbers from firearms to prevent the subsequent

identification of the item. Serial numbers are stamped (either by hand or

machine) onto a metal surface of this item, and they may be obliterated by

sanding or other methods.

The serial numbers may be restored using acids to regenerate the numbers

from the impacted metal surface under the sanded area. This is not always

successful, and therefore other industrial-related methods could be investigated

to determine if they may be a viable alternative. A project was conducted

between UTS (Dr Philip MAYNARD/Mr Kyle SKINNER) and FBIS (S/O

Matthew BOLTON) in 2016 which investigated the use of Liquid Dye

Penetrants in restoring obliterated serial numbers on firearms.

The aim of this project is to look at an array of NDT techniques often used in

industry to investigate their use in visualising obliterated serial numbers. This

project seeks to investigate the use of Thermal/Infrared, X-Ray/CT scanning,

and Ultrasonic Testing equipment to visualise obliterated serial numbers of

firearms.

Outline of

goals/objectives

To investigate whether:

Thermal/Infrared Testing;

X-Ray/CT scanning; or

Ultrasonic equipment;

can be used to visualise obliterated serial numbers based upon the underlying

deformed region of metal.

The project would investigate a number of variables, include different

temperature ranges for thermal/IR imaging, and which ultrasonic frequencies

are best suited for detecting and displaying the obliterated serial number on a

visual display.

Industry/external

partner NSWPF FBIS

Special

requirements

Thermal equipment to heat the samples and IR equipment to map the heat

signatures.

UTS supervisors Philip Maynard and Sebastien Moret

External supervisor S/O Matthew Bolton


[email protected]



Criminalistics


# 10

Project keywords: dating, weathering, interpretation, fibres

Title The degradation of rayon in multi-purpose cloths in different soil types within the Sydney region

Nature of problem

work is intended to

address


Service was recently asked to examine a multi-purpose cloth found at the

scene of a deceased person. It is believed that the death occurred some years

before. The cloth was compared to two packets of the same type of cloth

(unused), both of which contained rayon; however, the evidential cloth was

found not to contain this fibre type. The scientist was asked if the rayon could

have degraded such that it was no longer observed during examination.


assistance in term of laboratory resources, UTS having the necessary

resources available (a range of multi purpose cloths (e.g. Chux style) would

need to be purchased and evaluated, soil samples would be required); minimal

commitment by the external supervisors would be required (~ 1 hr a week,

mostly concentrated in the initial and final stages)

Outline of

goals/objectives

To study the degradation of rayon in rayon containing multi-purpose cloths in

different soil types.

Industry/external

partner NSW Forensic & Analytical Science Service, Chemical Criminalistics Unit

Special

requirements N/A

UTS supervisors

A/Prof Barbara Stuart

Dr Maiken Ueland

Prof Claude Roux

Dr Simone Gittelson

External supervisor Connie Aldaba ([email protected])

Contact

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]





Criminalistics


# 11

Project keywords:

Title Liquid chromatography - tandem mass spectrometry for identification of body fluids

Nature of problem

work is intended to

address

The identification of body fluids is an important aspect of forensic investigations

due to the evidence they can provide to reconstruct the events of a crime

scene. Currently, this is commonly performed using immunological assays such

as immunochromatographic cartridges utilised for the identification of blood,

saliva and semen. These are expensive, time consuming and may require

additional equipment and skill for accurate results to be produced. While RNA

based techniques for body fluid identification show promise, they remain costly

and time consuming and are not yet standardised and robust. In contrast, liquid

chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) has the potential to

provide an automated and rapid single assay for the identification of all body

fluids. It offers powerful discrimination in the form of two detection methods

(chromatographic retention times and mass spectra) and has the potential to

identify multiple biomarkers in each body fluid.

Outline of

goals/objectives

To develop an LC-MS/MS biomarker assay method for the identification of

different body fluids.

Industry/external

partner NSW Forensic & Analytical Science Service

Special

requirements Human ethics approval may be required

UTS supervisors Prof Dennis McNevin

Prof Philip Doble

External supervisor Dr Catherine Hitchcock ([email protected])


[email protected]




Fingermark Detection

Fingermark detection


# 12

Project keywords: spectroscopy, analytical chemistry, process improvement, fundamental studies

Title Exploring the relationship between substrate chemistry and fingermark detection


We still have a very limited understanding of how fingermarks interact with the

underlying substrate. This is especially problematic for fingermarks on paper

and some plastics, as the composition of the substrate has a substantial impact

on successful fingermark detection. In order to improve processes such as

physical developer, we need to identify the major chemical and physico-

chemical influences on development quality (e.g. background staining).

There are a variety of analytical techniques available for studying and imaging

the inorganic and organic composition of substrates and/or fingermarks:

microscopy, UV-visible spectrophotometry, FTIR microspectroscopy, Raman

microspectroscopy, laser ablation ICP-MS, SEM energy dispersive X-ray

spectroscopy, and thermogravimetry-GC-MS. These results can then be

correlated to the quality of the detected fingermarks to determine the factors that

have the greatest impact on enhancing latent fingermarks.

Distribution of (L-R) iron in a fingermark on glass, potassium in a fingermark on paper and a

comparison of SMDII and PD.


This project is part of a larger study on the effects of the substrate on fingermark

deposition and development. The specific objectives of this project are to:

1. Characterise a variety of common paper products;

2. Develop and assess fingermarks on these products using standard

chemical and metal deposition techniques; and

3. Identify potential elements or components that have the largest impact on

fingermark deposition and detection.

Successful completion of this project will lead to publication and presentation of

results at international conferences.


N/A


Students will need to select 1-2 analytical techniques to focus on in consultation

with the supervisory panel.

UTS supervisors Drs Xanthe Spindler & Sebastien Moret, Prof. Claude Roux, final supervisor

TBC depending on chosen technique

External supervisor Prof. Chris Lennard






# 13

Project keywords: process improvement, crime scene, fingerprint powder

Title Success rate of powders versus conventional laboratory methods for the detection of fresh marks


With increased pressures on SOCOs there is an increasing demand for high

efficiency and highly effective detection techniques. Detection of fingermarks at

the crime scene is generally performed using fingerprint powders, as this is a

rapid and easy to use technique. Lab based techniques, while viewed as more

sensitive, are more time consuming and require more experience and expense.

This project will further examine the effectiveness of powdering when compared

to conventional laboratory techniques, to determine whether a more strategic

approach can be used to obtain results in a more timely manner.


Compare the effectiveness of different fingerprint powders

Optimisation of comparison parameters

Compare the effectiveness of powder vs conventional methods

(cyanoacrylate) in developing fresh marks

Perform pseudo-operational trials on a range of non-porous substrates

If this work is successful it could be presented at the International Fingerprint

Research Meeting and published in a peer-reviewed forensic science journal.


N/A


N/A

UTS supervisors Drs Sebastien Moret and Scott Chadwick







# 14

Project keywords: Fingerprints, disposable gloves

Title Fingerprints from disposable gloves - a systematic review

Nature of problem

work is intended to

address

Disposable gloves are commonly encountered items in forensic examinations,

and come in a number of different types including nitrile, latex and vinyl. The

gloves are notoriously difficult surfaces from which to recover usable

fingerprints from, due to both the surface type, and the amount of movement

and overload of secretions during their use.

Several different approaches have been considered to recover fingerprints.

Currently in NSW the standard detection sequence is to fume the gloves with

cyanoacrylate then stain with Rhodamine 6G, regardless of the gloves’

composition. A recent paper1 has suggested that ninhydrin may be an

alternative for latex gloves. Vacuum Metal Deposition has also been offered as

a potential method. Other techniques that may be assessed include iron oxide

powder suspensions, crystal violet, alternative cyanoacrylate stains, and

updated imaging and lighting techniques.

1. Arbeli T, et al, Development of fingermarks on Latex gloves: The solution to

a challenging surface, FSI, 280, 2017, pp 147-152.

Outline of

goals/objectives

The goals of this project are to;

Conduct a thorough literature review of all available methods for the

detection and recovery of fingerprints from different types of disposable

gloves

Through controlled experiments determine the most effective sequence

of examination techniques for the three most commonly encountered

disposable gloves types

Industry/external

partner NSW Police Force

Special

requirements

Access to a variety of fingerprint enhancement methods (potential to be

facilitated at NSWPF laboratory)

UTS supervisor Dr Xanthe Spindler

TBC by fingerprint research group

External supervisor Dr Jennifer Raymond, Research Coordinator

NSW Police Force Forensic Evidence & Technical Services Command





# 15

Project keywords: Scale, contrast, comparison

Title Fingermark detection: what is the best approach to assess the quality of a technique

Nature of problem

work is intended to

address

The performance of new fingermark detection techniques is generally assessed

by visual comparison with other techniques (use of split marks). The IFRG

Guidelines give valuable information about how to conduct such research but

provide only limited information about how to assess the results obtained.

This ambitious project will firstly involve the creation of a database containing

fingermark images. Lab work will be required to collect these fingermarks on

various substrates and then process them with up-to-date detection techniques.

Secondly, based on the development achieved and captured images, several

questions will need to be addressed. Which scale is the most appropriate to

effectively assess the relative performance of a technique? How should the

results be evaluated (e.g. University of Canberra scale, Home Office CAST

scale, other)? How many evaluators should assess the results and what skills

and certification should they have? Other more “objective” techniques are

available (contrast index, AFIS). Are they suitable to assess the performances

of a detection technique?

Outline of

goals/objectives

The objective is to develop and validate a robust protocol for assessing the

results of fingermark detection techniques. This will help researchers in the

fingermark detection field to assess their results in a more objective way.

This project will probably lead to a publication and presentation at IFRG or

other conferences. It could lay the foundations for a more ambitious PhD

project.

Industry/external

partner N/A

Special

requirements N/A

UTS supervisor Dr Sebastien Moret






# 16

Project keywords: Inkjet, detection, standard

Title Inkjet printing of artificial blood fingermarks

Nature of problem

work is intended to

address

Fingermark composition presents a high intra- and inter-variability. Among

other parameters, age, gender, diet, and general health of the donor have an

impact on the general composition of the mark. All those parameters need to be

taken into account when optimising new fingermark detection techniques. In

research, being able to study parameters independently and in a controlled

manner is crucial. Therefore, some form of standard fingermark with controlled

properties, is desirable. More broadly, the use of appropriate standards is also

a common feature of scientific practice. Even though an artificial fingermark

would never substitute real fingermarks, they can be used in early stage of

research, when multiple parameters need to be studied.

Obtaining high-quality artificial fingermarks using a modified home inkjet printer

has been recently demonstrated. Artificial fingermarks samples were obtained

with a good consistency, and the amount of compound deposited could be

precisely determined, thus showing the feasibility of the approach.

Fingermark in blood are often encountered in practice and several detection

techniques can be used to target blood. However, using real blood fingermarks

for research purposes is problematic for obvious health and safety reasons

Blood fingermarks offers a poor reproducibility. Therefore, the design of artificial

blood is highly desirable, since it would circumvent issues related to the use of

real blood and improve research efficiency.

Outline of

goals/objectives

The main objective of this research is to design artificial blood that have

chemical and physical properties similar to real blood, implement the

production of artificial blood fingermarks with a modified inkjet printer and

assess the practicability of this method to be used for research in fingermark

detection.

Industry/external

partner N/A

Special

requirements N/A

UTS supervisor Dr Sebastien Moret

Romain Steiner






# 17

Project keywords: sequencing, process improvement, decomposition

Title Detection sequences for fingermarks on body wrappings


Fingermarks deposited on plastic wrappings, adhesive tapes, certain fabrics or

other items associated with a buried or dumped body (or items) can provide

much-needed information to an investigation. However, the presence of

decomposition fluid, soil or mud can contaminate or obscure latent or blood

marks, making it difficult to detect fingermarks using traditional sequences.

Removing contaminants via washing or chemical processes degrades

fingermarks and often results in incomplete removal of the contamination.

Previous research has demonstrated that physico-chemical techniques such as

lipid stains interact with decomposition fluid, but that techniques recommended

for wetted surfaces can be successful in some cases.

There has been very little research published globally on the recovery of

fingermarks from body wrappings and grave goods. The international gold

standard Home Office Centre for Applied Science and Technology (CAST)

Fingermark Visualisation Manual does not currently recommend sequence for

the detection of fingermarks on body wrappings or other grave goods as it “has

not been researched in sufficient detail”.


The overall objective of the project is build upon a previous project to optimise

and validate the best detection sequences for substrates commonly

encountered in homicide and missing persons cases, including any adaptations

of existing techniques. Process optimisation will be performed in the laboratory

and in the field using a decomposition analogue.

Successful sequences may be trialled on specimens placed in more realistic

decomposition environments at the Australian Facility for Taphonomic

Experimental Research (AFTER), depending on time and donor availability.


N/A


N/A

UTS supervisor Dr Xanthe Spindler Dr Sebastien Moret Dr Maiken Ueland





Fire Investigation

Fire investigation


# 18

Project keywords: fire investigation, GC-MS, chemical analysis

Title Analysis of chemical agents used in the extinguishment of fire


The use of Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) is the standard

technique for the identification of ignitable liquid residues in fire debris samples.

The analysis of such debris is a complex task and is made more difficult by the

introduction of chemical agents used in the extinguishment of the fire. In

particular, it has been shown that Class A foams can contain detectable

amounts of d-limonene, which itself is a flammable compound.

The project aims at establishing a database of GC-MS data on various types of

extinguishing agents used by Australian fire brigades (Fire and Rescue/Rural

Fire Service). This would assist fire investigators in assigning the appropriate

level of significance to the results in the analysis of fire debris samples.

An extension to this project (if time permits) is to examine the composition of the

extinguishing agent after fire extinguishment to observe any changes that may

occur.



Identify typical chemical agents used by Australian fire brigades in the

extinguishment of fires

Establish a GC-MS method for the analysis of these chemical agents

Create a GC-MS database of these agents

Determine which agents contain d-limonene or other ignitable liquids that

could potentially influence the analysis of a fire debris sample


GKA Investigations Group: Fire Investigation Services


Student should have knowledge of GC-MS technique

UTS supervisors Drs Mackenzie de la Hunty and Verena Taudte

External supervisor Alexander Visotin


[email protected]



Fire investigation


# 19

Project keywords: fire investigation, GC-MS, chemical analysis

Title Analysis of tile flooring materials for background contaminants


Background materials and substrates in fire debris can emit various compounds

that complicate data interpretation when attempting to identify and quantify

ignitable liquid resides (ILRs). Many materials can release ILR target

compounds either as a result of pyrolysis or due to the presence of these

compounds in the manufacturing process.

Ceramic or stone tiles are generally relatively inert substrates. Tiles are made

from clay minerals and various chemical additives to alter the properties of the

working material. The manufacturing process includes steps such as batching,

mixing and grinding, spray drying, forming, drying, glazing and firing. The effect

of each of these steps in the process on the chemical composition of the tile is

currently unknown. Various casework samples received by the GKA

Investigations Group Laboratory have shown flammable compounds present in

the tile materials. An investigation into the significance of these findings would

be beneficial when forming conclusions about the presence of ILRs in submitted

samples.


This project aims to:

Research the manufacturing process of various types of tile products

including ceramic tiles, cladding/modular tiles, abrasion resistant tiles and

other tile products

Analyse a variety of tile types using GC-MS and determine whether any

ILRs (or target compounds) are present

Establish a database of the tile substrate chromatograms and mass

spectra


GKA Investigations Group: Fire Investigation Services


Student must have knowledge of GC-MS technique

UTS supervisors Drs Mackenzie de la Hunty and Verena Taudte

External supervisor Alexander Visotin


[email protected]



Forensic Genetics

Forensic biology


# 20

Project keywords: Automation, liquid handling, DNA sequencing, forensic genetics

Title Automated library preparation for massively parallel sequencing (MPS)

Nature of problem

work is intended to

address

Massively parallel sequencing (MPS) has revolutionised forensic genetics.

Many millions of sequences can be obtained in a single run from multiple DNA

samples which are pooled. In order to differentiate between DNA sources after

the run, each sample is tagged with an oligonucleotide barcode. The process of

creating barcoded samples ready for sequencing is called "library preparation".

This process can be automated using robotic liquid handling platforms.

Outline of

goals/objectives

The aims of this project are:

To identify the best liquid handling robot for MPS library preparation at

UTS

To code a library preparation protocol for sequencing on the Ion S5

sequencer (Applied Biosystems)

To build in flexibility to the protocol in terms of numbers and types of

samples to be barcoded

To optimise the protocol so as to minimise use of reagents and

consumables

Industry/external

partner N/A

Special

requirements Human ethics approval required

UTS supervisors Prof Dennis McNevin

Dr Mark Barash





Forensic biology


# 21

Project keywords: biogeographical ancestry (BGA), ancestry informative marker (AIM), population genetics

Title Prediction of biogeographical ancestry in Asia

Nature of problem

work is intended to

address

Prediction of the biogeogrphical ancetry (BGA) of the donor of DNA evidence

can provide valuable intelligence for an investigation. It is now routinely

possible to differentiate between continental populations (Africans, Europeans,

South Asians, East Asians, Americans). However, the ancestry informative

markers (AIMs) employed are not yet sufficient for differentiation within these

regions. This project will involve the identification of AIMs for differentiating

between populations in South East Asia using the HUGO Pan Asian SNP

database.

Outline of

goals/objectives

The aims of the project are:

To identify AIMs from the HUGO Pan Asian SNP database that can

differentiate between sub-populations

To test the ability of the selected AIMs to differentiate between BGAs

using Bayesian bootstrapping algorithms such as Structure and reduced

dimensionality spatial representations like principle coordinates analysis

(PCoA).

Industry/external

partner N/A

Special

requirements N/A

UTS supervisor Prof Dennis McNevin




Forensic Interpretation

Forensic interpretation


# 22

Project keywords: Fingerprints, probabilities, identification, interpretation

Title Further research into a probabilistic approach to fingermark identification

Nature of problem

work is intended to

address

The evaluation of evidence in court is increasingly relying on a sound

probabilistic approach. Bayesian statistics and graphical models (e.g., Bayesian

networks) have been developed for a small number of trace types, e.g. DNA.

However, the vast majority of other forensic traces are still evaluated in a

classical frequentist approach. Worse, many areas still consider dichotomic

conclusions match vs non-match. This area has been under scrutiny since the

2009 NAS and the 2016 PCAST reports.

There has been significant research in the area of fingermark identification over

the last 25 years, most notably coming from the University of Lausanne. At UTS,

recent research in collaboration with Lausanne includes Joshua Abraham’s and

Rebecca Lee’s PhD projects. This Honours project will build upon this work to

further progress the field and propose pragmatic solutions to the complex

problem of fingermark identification.

Outline of

goals/objectives

This project will consider one or more of these aims:

Testing various statistical models by modelling distance data collected on

within and between source fingerprint comparisons.

Comparing those models to each other to determine if a more appropriate

model can be found to model distance data.

Assigning the probability of finding close non-matches of configurations of

minutiae found in different regions of fingerprints (i.e., core, delta, periphery,

etc…).

Creating a distortion model of fingermarks for non-flat surfaces.

Creating a human influence model for use in LR calculations (i.e., modelling

the variability of human markings of minutiae for fingermarks of different

quality and topological categorisations, etc).

More than one project can be offered.

Industry/external

partner AFP Specialist Operations

Special

requirements Human research ethics approval may be needed for aim 5.

UTS supervisors Drs Simone Gittelson, Xanthe Spindler, Sebastien Moret and Prof. Claude Roux

External supervisor Bruce Comber (AFP)






# 23

Project keywords: Toolmarks, probabilities, interpretation

Title Further research into a probabilistic approach to toolmark (or bullet/casing) examination

Nature of problem

work is intended to

address

The evaluation of evidence in court is increasingly relying on a sound

probabilistic approach. Bayesian statistics and graphical models (e.g., Bayesian

networks) have been developed for a small number of trace types, e.g. DNA.

However, the vast majority of other forensic traces are still evaluated in a

classical frequentist approach. Worse, many areas still consider dichotomic

conclusions match vs non-match. This area has been under scrutiny since the

2009 NAS and the 2016 PCAST reports.

There has been some but limited research in the area of toolmark interpretation.

This Honours project will build upon previous work to further progress the field

and propose pragmatic solutions to the complex problem of toolmark

interpretation.

Outline of

goals/objectives

This project will consider one or more of these aims:

Testing various statistical models by modelling data collected on within and

between source toolmark comparisons.

Comparing those models with each other to determine if a more appropriate

model can be found.

Creating a semi-automated system combining image capture and an

interpretation model.

Creating a human influence model for use in LR calculations (i.e., modelling

the variability of human markings of striation for toolmarks of different quality,

etc).

More than one project can be offered.

Industry/external

partner AFP Specialist Operations

Special

requirements Human research ethics approval may be needed for aim 4.

UTS supervisor Drs Simone Gittelson, Xanthe Spindler, Sebastien Moret and Prof. Claude Roux

External supervisor Chris Pieterse and Michael Jackson (AFP)






# 24

Project keywords: friction ridge skin, phalange, ridge flow, fingerprint

Title Phalange Ridge Flow Trends

Nature of problem

work is intended to

address

Unlike finger tips, the friction ridge patterns or characteristics on the phalanges

has been little studied. Although the friction ridge flow on the phalanges is

reported to have some common universal trends, the evidence for this is largely

anecdotal. A comprehensive study investigating phalange ridge flow would

answer this question and provide valuable information for searching and

matching friction ridge detail when impressions recovered from crime scenes

capture ridge detail from the phalanges.

Outline of

goals/objectives

Determine whether consistent universal trends exist in the ridge flow found on

the phalanges of the fingers.

Industry/external

partner NSWPF Fingerprint Operations Branch

Special

requirements

At this stage it is envisaged that the student will be required to collect inked

impressions from a large number of donor sources that specifically capture

phalange data (as record Ten-Print forms, although potentially useful, are

generally limited in the amount of captured phalange friction ridge skin)

UTS supervisor TBC by fingerprint research group

External supervisor CSO Andrew Chapman

Contact Please contact the Honours program director ([email protected]) for

further information / prior to contacting external supervisor.




# 25

Project keywords: paint, probabilities, Bayesian network, evaluation

Title Bayesian networks for the evaluation of simple paint cases

Nature of problem

work is intended to

address


Service examines cases involving paint including vehicle collisions, break and

enter, vandalism, hit and run. The laboratory uses the Bayesian approach to

interpret the evidence and provide a strength of evidence to assist the courts.

Bayesian networks can assist in exploring the value of evidence and provide a

transparent and logical evaluation of the findings in a case.


assistance in term of laboratory resources, UTS having the necessary skills

available (access to Hugin to would be needed); minimal commitment by the

external supervisors would be required (~ 1 hr a week, mostly concentrated in

the initial and final stages).

Outline of

goals/objectives

To develop Bayesian Networks for the evaluation of the findings relating to

simple paint cases e.g. two vehicle collision, paint on a tool, sprayed paint on

clothing etc.

Industry/external

partner NSW Forensic & Analytical Science Service, Chemical Criminalistics Unit

Special

requirements N/A

UTS supervisor

Prof Claude Roux

Dr Simone Gittelson

Dr Xanthe Spindler

External supervisor Dr Jo Bunford ([email protected])




Forensic Taphonomy

Forensic taphonomy


# 26

Project keywords: textiles, degradation, taphonomy, human decomposition, infrared spectroscopy

Title Textile degradation in human burials

Nature of problem

work is intended to

address

Textile materials regularly contribute to evidence collected from burial sites and

the nature of the textiles can potentially provide information about the identity of

a perpetrator or the time since death. Recent studies at UTS have established

the effectiveness of employing infrared spectroscopy as a tool for monitoring the

structural changes that occur to clothing materials in model human burials. In

these studies, the most popular clothing materials, cotton and polyester, have

been investigated. However, there is limited compositional information regarding

other textiles that are encountered in burials.

Outline of

goals/objectives

To establish model human burials with a range of textiles of different

compositions at the Australian Facility for Taphonomic Experimental Research

(AFTER). Textile samples exposed to human decomposition will be collected

and examined using infrared spectroscopy. The influence of human

decomposition on the rate of deterioration of the textiles will be established.

Industry/external

partner N/A

Special

requirements N/A

UTS supervisor

A/Prof Barbara Stuart

Dr Maiken Ueland

Dr Paul Thomas



[email protected]




Forensic taphonomy


# 27

Project keywords: Forensic taphonomy, DNA profiling, qPCR, Human decomposition

Title Profiling the variability of nuclear DNA degradation in post-mortem human

body tissues

Nature of problem

work is intended to

address

The decomposition of human remains is widely understood to be a complex and

highly variable process. The introduction of facilities for taphonomic research

has allowed for the study of human decomposition to better understand the

processes involved. However, until recently this research has been solely

conducted in North America, preventing the use and correlation of this data in

other regions with diverse climates.

The purpose of this project is to collect tissue samples from human remains

placed at the Australian Facility for Taphonomic Experimental Research

(AFTER) at different periods throughout the year and investigate the variability

in nDNA degradation across the sample period. This information is integral to

understanding the breakdown of genetic material through the decomposition

process in an Australian environment, which can later be used to create better

estimates for post-mortem interval.

Outline of

goals/objectives

Collect tissue samples from human remains using: Biopsy needle, Scalpel

& Swabs

Extract and analyse samples using qPCR

Analyse data to identify patterns and variations between collected samples

Industry/external

partner N/A

Special

requirements N/A

UTS supervisor

Prof Dennis McNevin

Dr Maiken Ueland

Samara Garrett-Rickman



[email protected]



Forensic taphonomy


# 28

Project keywords: Forensic taphonomy, decomposition chemistry, human remains, GCxGC, odour profiling

Title Profiling the seasonal variability of decomposition odour from human

remains

Nature of problem

work is intended to

address

Decomposition odour is important to investigate to determine the key volatile

organic compounds (VOCs) that are produced by human remains as it is these

VOCs that are used by cadaver dogs to locate deceased victims. It is known

that decomposition odour is dynamic and can change by the day and even

hour. However, it is not yet known how the decomposition odour profile changes

with seasonal variation. This information is important to advise police dog units

on potential search strategies based on the time of year that a search is

conducted. The purpose of this project is to collect VOCs from human remains

placed at the Australian Facility for Taphonomic Experimental Research

(AFTER) at different periods throughout the year and investigate the variability

in odour profile.

Outline of

goals/objectives

The goals of this project are:

To collect VOCs from human remains using sorbent tubes

To analyse the VOCs using comprehensive GCxGC-TOFMS

To determine if there are any variations in the odour profile with time of

year

Industry/external

partner Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières

Special

requirements N/A

UTS supervisor Dr Maiken Ueland

Dr Simone Gittelson

External supervisor Prof Shari Forbes ([email protected])




Forensic Toxicology & Drug Detection

Forensic toxicology & drug profiiling


# 29

Project keywords: Chemical profiling; drug synthesis; organic chemistry

Title

The use of stable isotope ratio mass spectrometry for

methylamphetamine profiling: Isotopic profiling of phenyl-2-propanone

(P2P)

Nature of problem

work is intended to

address

The majority of methylamphetamine Australian Border seizures today are so

pure that little information is available from the manufacturing impurity profile.

The conventional drug profiling techniques became less useful to provide

information about precursors. It was once a trivial matter to distinguish P2P

based methylamphetamine samples from ephedrine based methylamphetamine

samples. However, this is problematic now with the high purity

methylamphetamine and the widespread use of enantiomeric resolution

techniques at clandestine drug facilities. Other techniques have thus been

investigated.

Stable isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) is one of the

methylamphetamine profiling tools used to assist in determining

methylamphetamine precursors. Previous studies on isotopic profiling of

methylamphetamine have been performed particularly by research groups in

the United States, Japan, and Australia. Much of this work was aimed at

determining synthetic route and precursors because of the prevalence today of

high volume production and high purity methylamphetamine.

Methylamphetamine can be produced from many synthetic routes. However,

both international and domestic production have been dominated by a reliance

on two precursors, pseudoephedrine/ephedrine and phenyl-2-propanone (P2P).

P2P can also be produced from different synthetic routes and it is important to

investigate if the different routes can be differentiated as they could be used to

indicate changes in drug production routes.

Outline of

goals/objectives

This project will investigate the feasibility of using IRMS to differentiate

methylamphetamine synthesised using different sources of P2P. It will

investigate isotopic profiling of methylamphetamine made from P2P which in

turn was made via three different routes:

1. P2P from benzyl nitrile via alphay-phenyl acetoacetonitrile (alpha-PAAN)

Different batches of benzyl nitrile are to be sourced and analysed by IRMS.

The benzyl nitrile will be converted to alpha-PAAN and then P2P. All

products, reagents and intermediates will be analysed by IRMS.

2. P2P from benzyl nitrile via phenyl acetic acid (PAA)

Different batches of benzyl nitrile used in Reaction 1, are also to be used to

make phenyl acetic acid. The phenyl acetic acid is to be converted to P2P

by two different methods: (i) Dakin-West reaction and (ii) lead acetate

reaction. All products, reagents and intermediates will be analysed by

IRMS.

3. P2P from mandelic acid via phenyl acetic acid (PAA)

Multiple industrial batches of mandelic acid will be sourced and analysed

by IRMS. The mandelic acid will be converted to PAA and then to P2P

using two different methods: (i) Dakin-West reaction and (ii) lead acetate

reaction. All products, reagents and intermediates will be analysed by

IRMS.

Finally, the P2P made from the three different synthetic pathways will be

converted to methylamphetamine. The final methylamphetamine products will

be profiled by IRMS and their values compared to methylamphetamine made

from other P2P sources as well as ephedrine/pseudoephedrine.


Industry/external

partner National Measurement Institute

Special

requirements Project is based at NMI laboratories

UTS supervisor

Dr Marie Morelato

Prof Claude Roux

A/Prof Shanlin Fu

External supervisor Dr Michael Collins ([email protected])

Dr Helen Salouros ([email protected])







# 30

Project keywords: anti-doping, metabolomics, horse racing, steroid detection

Title Urinary steroid biomarkers to detect the misuse of testosterone in male entire horses by GC-MS-MS.

Nature of problem

work is intended to

address

The use of anabolic-androgenic-steroids such as testosterone is banned in

horseracing. Misuse of testosterone in castrated males (geldings) and females

is controlled by urinary thresholds of 20 ng/mL and 55 ng/mL respectively,

however no threshold currently exists for entire male horses.

Outline of

goals/objectives

This project will investigate the following to identify testosterone administration:

1. Quantitative validation of testosterone (T), estrenediol (ED), estrone,

estrenedione, 17a-estradiol and 17b-estradiol in equine urine by GC-MS-

MS.

2. Inter-individual variance in selected biomarkers from a minimum of 100

equine male urine samples.

3. Intra-individual variance in selected biomarkers from 10 entire male

horses currently on the Equine Biological Passport (EBP).

4. The influence of testosterone administration on selected biomarkers.

5. Use of T/ED and/or multivariate statistical approaches to propose a rule

controlling testosterone misuse in male entire horses.

Industry/external

partner

Australian Racing Forensic Laboratory (ARFL), Racing NSW

Agilent Technologies, Inc.

Special

requirements

Student will perform research at ARFL.

Animal Ethics Approval will be required for testosterone administration study.

UTS supervisor Associate Professor Shanlin Fu

External supervisor Dr Adam Cawley (Racing NSW)

Mr James Pyke (Agilent Technologies, Australia, Pty.Ltd)






# 31

Project keywords: anti-doping, horse racing, steroid detection

Title Investigation of biomarkers for longitudinal profiling of equine plasma by LC-MS-MS.

Nature of problem

work is intended to

address

Racing NSW recently established the Equine Biological Passport (EBP) to

perform longitudinal monitoring of biomarkers for specific horses over time.

Fundamental to this strategy is the selection of appropriate biomarkers which

can identify pharmaceutical manipulation distinct from physiological variation.

Expansion of the current EBP containing 25 biomarkers will be explored;

specifically, the relevance of hydrocortisone and its metabolites together with

beta-endorphin.

Outline of

goals/objectives

This project will investigate the following to indirectly detect adrenocorticotrophic

or corticosteroid administrations:

1. Quantitative validation of hydrocortisone (HC), 20b-dihydrocortisone,

20b-dihydrocortisol, pregnenolone, 17a-hydroxypregnenolone and

triamcinolone acetonide (TACA) in equine plasma by LC-MS-MS. D4-HC

and D6-TACA will be used as internal standards.

2. Validation of b-endorphin determination in equine plasma by ELISA.

3. Inter-individual variance in HC, 20b-dihydrocortisone, 20b-dihydrocortisol, pregnenolone, 17a-hydroxypregnenolone and b-endorphin from a

minimum of 200 equine plasma samples.

4. Intra-individual variance in HC, 20b-dihydrocortisone, 20b-dihydrocortisol, pregnenolone, 17a-hydroxypregnenolone and b-endorphin from 10

horses currently on the Equine Biological Passport (EBP).

5. The influence of adrenocorticotrophic hormone and TACA administrations

on plasma HC, 20b-dihydrocortisone, 20b-dihydrocortisol, pregnenolone,

17a-hydroxypregnenolone, b-endorphin and TACA levels.

6. Use of multivariate statistical approaches to distinguish administration

cases from the baseline population.

Industry/external

partner

Australian Racing Forensic Laboratory (ARFL), Racing NSW

Shimadzu Scientific Instruments (Oceania) Pty.Ltd

Special

requirements Student will perform research at ARFL.

UTS supervisor Associate Professor Shanlin Fu

External supervisor

Dr Adam Cawley (Racing NSW)

Dr Peter Varelis (Shimadzu Scientific Instruments (Oceania) Pty.Ltd)

Mr Nigel Grieves (Shimadzu Scientific Instruments (Oceania) Pty.Ltd)




School of Mathematical & Physical Sciences

Centre for Forensic Science

UT

S C

RIC

OS

PR

OV

IDE

R C

OD

E 0

00

99F

Forensic Science Honours Projects: Autumn 2019 RELEASE 2

Contents

General information 3

Application & Admission 3

Bachelor of Forensic Science (Honours) 4

Master of Science (Honours) / Master of Philosophy in Forensic Science 4

Commencing your Honours project 5

Crime Scene & Forensic Imaging 6

Comparison of 3D scanning vs. traditional measurement methods for bullet trajectory and impact analysis 7

Criminalistics 8

Survey of fingerprint and DNA yield on various items 9

Characterising the mechanisms of explosive residue contamination and redistribution as a result of human and canine intervention 10

Fingermark Detection 11

Optimisation of the detection of latent fingermarks on adhesive tape 12

Forensic Genetics 13

Developmental validation of a novel forensic STR typing kit 14

Forensic Interpretation 15

Production of 3D printed fingers with a view to latent print fabrication and defeating biometric access control 16

Forensic Toxicology & Drug Detection 17

Analysis of fentanyl extracted from patches and street fentanyl 18

Quantitative analysis of impurities in seized drugs using high and low resolution NMR 20

General information Page 3

General information

The project proposals listed in this booklet are available to students enrolling in the Bachelor of Forensic

Science (Honours) in Applied Chemistry (C09050) and Master of Science (Honours) (C04267) / Master of

Philosophy in Forensic Science (C04393) courses. All of the listed projects are designed to run for a

standard 37 week academic calendar year. Autumn intake projects commence on Monday 25 Feburary

2019.

In Honours, students will gain direct training in the skills required for undertaking research in forensic

science as well as further developing their investigative and communication skills. Honours degrees offer

the opportunity for students to undertake a research project within one of the research groups at UTS or

collaboratively with an external organisation. The aim of the Honours program is to produce professional

forensic scientists with highly adaptable and practical scientific skills.

Application & Admission

There are two application processes for Honours courses in the Faculty of Science and these are course

specific. For further information and to download the forms, visit https://www.uts.edu.au/future-

students/science/science-courses/honours-courses.

Bachelor of Forensic Science (Honours) applicants will need to apply to the course by submitting a UTS

Direct Application Form. Direct application forms are due by 30 November 2018.

Master of Science (Honours) / Master of Philosophy in Forensic Science applicants will need to lodge an

internal course transfer request with the Student Centre to transfer from their Master of Science / Master

of Forensic Science coursework course. Internal course transfer requests for Autumn commencement

must be made by 16 November 2018.

Applicants to both courses will also need to submit the supplementary Faculty of Science Honours

application form with their top three (3) project preferences listed in order. You only need to complete

sections 1-5. Prospective students are encouraged to speak to potential UTS supervisors before selecting

their projects (contact details are listed on each project proposal). Faculty of Science supplementary

application forms must be submitted to [email protected] (cc to the Program Director,

[email protected]) by the dates listed above.

Successful applicants to both Honours degrees must have completed a UTS-recognised bachelor's degree

in a relevant discipline at an appropriate level. Applicants to the Bachelor of Forensic Science (Honours)

course must have attained at least a credit average (≥ 65) over the final two-thirds of their undergraduate

program. Successful applicants to the Master of Science (Honours) course should demonstrate

exceptional academic achievement and research potential to be considered for enrolment. Applicants

typically complete 48 cp of coursework (1 year full time equivalent) prior to commencing their research

project.

More detailed information on the course structure and international admission requirements can be found

in the UTS Handbook.






Bachelor of Forensic Science (Honours)

The course comprises 48 credit points of study, consisting of two academic stages. The major component

of the course (75%, 36 cp) is a research project that extends over the full duration of the course and

normally takes the form of an experimental investigation. The project is undertaken within one of the

research groups at UTS in the area of forensic science. Projects may also be undertaken in collaboration

with an external partner. Projects are chosen by the student, although first preferences cannot always be

accommodated. As part of the project, students undertake a critical review of the existing literature in their

research area and develop a research plan for the year.

The results of the project are presented in an oral seminar and in a written thesis, both of which are formally

assessed. The remaining 12 credit points of study are coursework: Complex Forensic Cases (Chemistry)

in Autumn semester and Expert Evidence Presentation in Spring semester. Students may enrol in the

course for Autumn or Spring intake.

Students who have completed the Bachelor of Forensic Biology (Biomedical Science) will receive credit

recognition for 65743 and 65863 provided they have successfully completed 91139 Complex Forensic

Cases (Biology) and 79028 Complex Forensic Cases (Law for Biology).

Master of Science (Honours) / Master of Philosophy in

Forensic Science

The Master of Science (Honours) provides students with a unique opportunity to undertake original

research and gain in-depth knowledge in their chosen discipline of forensic science. The project is

undertaken within one of the research groups at UTS in the area of forensic science. Projects may also be

undertaken in collaboration with an external partner. This course is designed to provide a scholarship

pathway to the PhD program.

The course requires 96 credit points of study, comprising 24 credit points of professional stream subjects,

a 24 cp major and a 48 cp intensive research component. The Honours research project extends over the

final year and normally takes the form of an experimental, analytical or theoretical investigation. As part of

the project, students undertake a critical review of the existing literature in their research area and develop

a research plan for the year. The results of the project are presented in an oral seminar and in a written

thesis, both of which are formally assessed.


Commencing your Honours project

The Honours project accounts for most or all of your study load for academic year and will involve active

experimental work, data analysis, reading literature, and writing. UTS safe work practices and the Faculty

of Science after hours work procedures encourage you to complete your laboratory work during core office

hours (weekdays 9 am – 5pm) whenever possible. If you do need to perform experimental work out-of-

hours you should discuss any arrangements with your supervisor.

There is no set number of hours you need to be on campus or weekly timetable for research (except for

timetabled coursework), although we tend to advise 36cp students to be research-active 4 days per week

and 48cp students to be research-active 5 days per week. What you gain from your Honours year is

proportional to the effort you are willing to make. Most research groups have regular progress meetings

that involve project updates and paper reviews or presentations. The Centre for Forensic Science also

holds regular research seminars and meetings that are compulsory for research students.

You are expected to work with your supervisor to prepare a project plan in the initial weeks of semester.

Laboratory inductions and the risk management plan should be completed during the first two weeks of

your project as these processes are essential for gaining security access. Your supervisor can provide you

further guidance on how to schedule and complete your induction and risk management plan.

Each Honours research thesis subject will have an UTSOnline page that will be updated with the subject

outline and research support materials. It will also be the primary route of contact for the Honours program

director to update you on upcoming seminars, events, and assessments.

Please note that the supervisory panels listed for each project are indicative only. Your

supervisory panel may change closer to the commencement of your project.

Crime Scene & Forensic Imaging

Crime scene & forensic imaging Page 7


# 32

Project keywords: ballistics, bullet trajectory analysis, bullet impact analysis, 3D imaging, laser scanning

Title Comparison of 3D scanning vs. traditional measurement methods for bullet trajectory and impact analysis

Nature of problem

work is intended to

address

Ballistics is integral in the forensic investigation of crime scenes that have

involved the discharge of a firearm. The shape and nature of a bullet hole in a

stationary object, such as a wall, ceiling, or piece of furniture, can allow

investigators to determine the type of gun used, the distance of the shooter

relative to the bullet hole, and the shooter’s height.

In order to determine the location from which a shot was fired, the impact angle

must be quantified. Unless shot into an object at a perfectly perpendicular 90O

angle, an ellipse shaped bullet hole will be produced, and this ellipse is used to

measure the impact angle. Traditional techniques include inserting a dowel rod of

the same diameter into the bullet hole and measuring the angle between the

dowel and the surface, however this method can be deleterious to vital evidence

at the crime scene.

To prevent the destruction of evidence, scene investigators have begun turning

to laser scanners as a means to model and measure bullet holes, and use 3D

scan data to determine the impact angle of a gunshot. With the introduction of

laser scanning into ballistics however, comes a question regarding its accuracy

going forward. As yet, limited literature exists surrounding the comparison of this

novel technique, against the impact angle techniques traditionally used at crime

scenes.

Outline of

goals/objectives

Compare the accuracy of traditional bullet hole measurement techniques

against laser scanning measurement

Determine how accurately the firearm impact angle represented by both

traditional trajectory analysis + 3D scan data reflects the true position of a

firearm when discharged

Assess potential error rates between the chosen measurement methods

Produce recommendations defining accuracy and feasibility of laser

scanning/3D modelling as a novel technique in ballistics

Industry/external

partner Forensic Imaging Section, New South Wales Police

Special

requirements Access to shooting range

UTS supervisor Dr Philip Maynard

Dr Sebastien Moret




Criminalistics

Criminalistics Page 9


# 33

Project keywords: triage, sequencing, holistic casework

Title Survey of fingerprint and DNA yield on various items


Triaging is becoming increasingly important in forensic science. The advent of

more sensitive analytical methods and the gradual removal of the silos between

forensic science disciplines continues to drive the development of case-wide (or

holistic) processes. Case triaging processes should be determined by best

practice and prioritise the most appropriate or valuable traces in a given scenario.

Police and forensic science laboratory case records contain a wealth of

information about the success rates of the detection and analysis of traces in

different contexts or on different substrates. Laboratories are beginning to review

these databases to inform process modernisation and set up triage best practice.

Currently, the selection or prioritisation of traces are based on anecdotal evidence

of success rates shared amongst practitioners.



Survey case files from the AFP Search Precinct and establish data relating

to incoming exhibit surfaces and DNA/fingermark yield.

Analyse the case data for trends that may inform triage or examination

processes for incoming items that potentially contain DNA or fingermarks.

Develop recommended sequences or processes for case triage.


Australian Federal Police


Access to case data

UTS supervisor TBC

External supervisor Bruce Comber and Scott Osborn


further information / prior to contacting external supervisor.


Criminalistics Page 10


# 34

Project keywords: Transfer, persistence, IC-MS

Title Characterising the mechanisms of explosive residue contamination and redistribution as a result of human and canine intervention


Explosive residues undergo transfer (primary, secondary etc.) and have

persistence characteristics just like another other forensic trace. The increasing

sensitivity of analytical instrumentation such as ion chromatography-mass

spectrometry (IC-MS) and the move to scene-based detection, including

detection dogs, has led to the need for a greater understanding of the transfer

and persistence of explosives.

Two transfer questions have been identified for further research: 1) the transfer

of residues to secondary surfaces after handling a device or primary explosive,

and 2) contamination of a scene by explosives detection canines and handlers to

a scene after recent training. It is currently unknown whether training aids can be

accidentally transferred to the scene if teams are deployed soon after training.



Understand the transfer and persistence of explosives residues distributed

by handling, with a focus on detection using IC-MS.

Understand the potential risk of contamination from detection canine teams

at crime scenes.

Develop improved training and anti-contamination processes.




Animal and/or human ethics approval may be required

UTS supervisors TBC

External supervisor Dr LaTara Rust

Contact Please contact the Honours program director ([email protected]) for further information / prior to contacting external supervisor


Fingermark Detection

Fingermark detection Page 12


# 35

Project keywords: process improvement, sequencing

Title Optimisation of the detection of latent fingermarks on adhesive tape


Fingermark detection on adhesive tapes is often generalised to basic optical

techniques, cyanoacrylate fuming on the non-adhesive backing, and sticky-side

powder or gentian violet on the adhesive side. However, with the rising diversity

of colour, backing and adhesive materials now available, this sequence may not

be appropriate for certain adhesive tapes.

The tape needs to be removed as carefully as possible from the supporting

surface prior to treatment, usually with a non-destructive solvent. The AFP

currently use AK225 – a HFC degreasing agent and Montreal Protocol Annex C

controlled substance – that has been listed for phase-out in Australia. “Un-do”

adhesive remover and Honeywell Solstice PF have been marketed as alternatives

but not yet validated in an Australian fingermark detection context.


The aim of this project is to improve the fingermark detection sequences for

adhesive tapes encountered in common casework scenarios.




N/A

UTS supervisors TBC by UTS fingerprint research group

External supervisor Dr Carolyn McLarent

Contact Please contact the Honours program director ([email protected]) for further information / prior to contacting external supervisor.


Forensic Genetics

Forensic genetics Page 14


# 36

Project keywords: STRs, PCR, capillary electrophoresis, validation, forensic genetics

Title Developmental validation of a novel forensic STR typing kit

Nature of problem

work is intended to

address

Human forensic DNA analysis became the centrepiece of the forensic science

since its introduction some 30 years ago. Currently, most forensic DNA labs utilize

PCR and capillary electrophoresis – coupled platforms to detect fragment length

variation in short tandem repeats (STRs).

All the official forensic DNA laboratories in Australia and worldwide are using

commercial STR kits for routine casework. Prior to adoption into operational

workflow, every new kit must undergo validation, which is time and labour

intensive. Outsourcing this procedure to a research laboratory would allow more

efficient use of the operational resources.

Nearmedic is an international company that produces a range of Human ID kits

designed for forensic identification of human DNA. The newly developed ixMark

Plus© kit utilizes a 6-dye chemistry and amplifies 19 autosomal STR loci,

including 17 CODIS loci and 2 Y-STR loci.

In order for the kit to be accepted by the wider forensic community, extensive

validation needs to be undertaken, in accordance with published international

guidelines such as SWGDAM. The outcomes of this validation would be

submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed scientific journal.

Outline of

goals/objectives


Perform a range of validation experiments to demonstrate the kit’s

sensitivity, stability, reproducibility, precision and accuracy, following

SWGDAM validation guidelines.

Using existing DNA sample collection to produce population data and

analyse it using validated population analytical tools.

Summarize the outcomes of the project in a manuscript and submit for

publication.

Industry/external

partner Nearmedic© Plus LLC

Special

requirements

Human ethics approval required; All the required consumables (e.g. STR and

qPCR kits) would be supplied by the company.

UTS supervisors Dr Mark Barash

Prof Dennis McNevin




Forensic Interpretation

Forensic taphonomy Page 16


# 371

Project keywords:

Title Production of 3D printed fingers with a view to latent print fabrication and defeating biometric access control


Fingerprint spoofing practices – where fake friction ridge ‘skin’ is used to disguise

the wearer’s own fingerprints – have grown more sophisticated as both biometric

software ‘liveness detection’ and fake fingerprint reproduction technologies have

advanced. While historical spoofing practices have relied on physical casting of

the friction ridge skin, 3D printing and high resolution digital imaging open up new

opportunities to produce fake fingerprints.

Depending on the liveness detection capabilities of a system, 3D printing may be

able to produce latex or other polymer ‘skins’ that can fool a fingerprint scanner

used for access control. There is also the possibility of fabricating a latent

fingermark that behaves and looks like a genuine fingermark, a situation for which

there is currently no validated model for determining the genuineness of the

source.


This project aims to determine whether 3D printed friction ridge skin can pass

biometric systems or the fingerprint comparison process as a ‘genuine’ fingerprint,

and to characterise the traits of fabricated fingerprints for improved detection.




N/A

UTS supervisors TBC

External supervisor Bruce Comber & Scott Osborn

Contact Please contact the Honours program director ([email protected]) for further information / prior to contacting external supervisor.


Forensic Toxicology & Drug Detection

Forensic toxicology & drug profiiling Page 18


# 38

Project keywords:

Title Analysis of fentanyl extracted from patches and street fentanyl

Nature of problem

work is intended to

address

According to the World Drug Report 2018, it is estimated that one quarter of a

billion people used at least one drug in 2016. More importantly, the consequences

of drug use on health and society are concerning as more than twenty-nine million

people who use drugs are estimated to suffer from drug use disorder, twelve

millions of which are intravenous drug users. Intravenous drug use is associated

with health and social risks, such as microbiological cross-contamination that

facilitates the transmission of HIV. Gaining knowledge about drug consumption

would enable the development of sound strategies to reduce the harm caused to

the society.

According to the 2018 world drug report, fentanyl has recently been involved in

an increasing number of deaths (e.g. Canada, the United States). Fentanyl and

fentanyl related compounds have become more widely available in the United

States and are responsible for the current overdose epidemic in this country. The

National Forensic Laboratory Information System (NFLIS) collects and reports

drug identification results. They reported a dramatic increase of fentanyl that was

submitted to State and local laboratories in 2014 and 2015 (from 978 in 2013 to

4,697 in 2014 to 14,440 in 2015). This recent surge in overdose with high potency

opioids like fentanyl in North America, puts Australia at risk of similar

developments. It is thus important to understand the multiple ways fentanyl can

be used in order to adapt prevention messages.

Outline of

goals/objectives

The aim of this project is to develop an analytical method to distinguish between

fentanyl diverted from pharmaceutical patches and illicit fentanyl derivatives in

used injecting paraphernalia. In particular, the project will involve the analysis of

extracted fentanyl from patches, street fentanyl as well as used injecting

paraphernalia known to contain fentanyl by gas-chromatography/mass

spectrometry (GC-MS) to identify compounds present.

Objectives:

To review the literature and find out what are the common methods to extract

fentanyl from patches (i.e. solvents used, quantity, filtration)

To adapt the GC-MS method developed for the analysis of used injecting

paraphernalia (method will be provided)

To conduct ten repetitions of extraction on fentanyl patches using the

different methods identified in the literature and analyse the extract by GC-

MS

To analyse street fentanyl (if available)

To analyse the content of used injecting paraphernalia previously identified

to contain fentanyl

To identify potential harmful products and propose some prevention

messages (e.g. extraction technique that presents the most risk for health)

Industry/external

partner Uniting Medically Supervised Injecting Centre

Special

requirements N/A


UTS supervisor

Dr Marie Morelato

Elodie LeFrancois

Prof Claude Roux






# 2

Project keywords:

Title Quantitative analysis of impurities in seized drugs using high and low resolution NMR

Nature of problem

work is intended to

address

The current methods used by the AFP for the presumptive analysis of seized frugs

include colour tests, FTIR, Raman and TLC. The sue of a benchtop NMR can

provide rapid analysis for seized drugs (type, components within a mixture, and

isomer present). It can also be used for the quantitative analysis of drugs and

impurities within the sample.

In a move to intelligence-led policing and the desire for timely, accurate data,

benchtop NMR has the potential to provide law enforcement with actionable

information on potential illicit drug samples. The project will expand on previous

research conducted on the potential of benchtop NMR for rapid sample analysis

with minimal sample preparation.

Outline of

goals/objectives

This project aims to identify components within drug mixtures and estimate the

overall composition using benchtop NMR. The results will be compared to high

resolution NMR. This project will also contribute to the development of a

searchable NMR library for illicit drugs, diluents, and adulterants.

Industry/external

partner Australian Federal Police

Special

requirements N/A

UTS supervisor TBC

External supervisor Joyce Chan


further information / prior to contacting external supervisor




# 40

Project keywords: SiO2 nanoparticles, Fingermark detection

Title Encapsulation of various luminescent dyes into SiO2 nanoparticle for fingermark detection

Nature of problem

work is intended to

address

Interference from substrate chemistries and background luminescence is a major

drawback of current fingermark detection methods. This project will address this

issue through the development and validation of SiO2-based nanoparticles that

have versatile optical properties that can be tuned to meet optical requirements

by introducing a luminescent dye in their inner structure and studying their

interaction.

Outline of

goals/objectives

The aim of this project is to:

Synthesis SiO2 nanoparticles with different dyes

Study the encapsulation of the dye molecules within the SiO2 matrix

Compare various dyes and find the ideal one for fingermark detection

Successful completion of this project will lead to publication and presentation of

results at international conferences.

Industry/external

partner N/A

Special

requirements Good synthetic chemistry skills required

UTS supervisor Dr Fehmida Kanodarwala, Dr Sebastien Moret





# 41

Project keywords: Skeletal remains, anatomy, ATR-FTIR, VOC

Title Development of a protocol for recovery and processing of skeletal remains in an Australian environment

Nature of problem

work is intended to

address

Creating a rapid but adequate processing method for the collection of skeletal

remains is paramount for the creating of bone samples suitable for use by various

anthropological and archaeological studies. Several method for cleaning of

skeletal remains have been proposed, but there is currently no widely accepted

standard practice in place. This research will look at different methods of

preparing bone samples such as beetles, boiling, composting and natural

decomposition for its efficiency in the removal of tissue and fats. The analysis will

be done using microscopic and chemical methods such as attenuated total

reflectance - Fourier transform infrared spectrometry and gas chromatography-

mass spectrometry.

Outline of

goals/objectives

The aim of this project is to investigate different bone cleaning methods ensuring

efficiency and adequate cleaning for the creating of a skeletal teaching collection.

The project will also develop a strategy for maintaining bone identification

throughout the process.

Industry/external

partner N/A

Special

requirements N/A

UTS supervisor

Dr Maiken Ueland

Associate Professor Barbara Stuart

Mohammed Shareef





# 42

Project keywords:

Title Is it as delicious as it smells?

Nature of problem

work is intended to

address

Third hand smoking is when people are exposed to chemicals from tobacco

smoking which remain on surfaces (clothes, floor boards) and/or in dusts. These

chemicals are quickly absorbed into surfaces (1). The popularity of e-cigarettes

are rising in the US, Europe, and Australia. The e-cigarette industry sells the idea

that they are safe. However, it is known that e-vapour contains volatile gas that

can cause toxicity and inflammation. In our forerunner studies we have found

that clothes that were exposed to e-cigarettes caused inflammation.

However, we do not know which chemical component(s) of e-vapour are trapped

in fabrics and on hard surfaces.

1. Matt GE, Quintana PJE, Hovell MF, Bernert JT, Song S, et al. Households

contaminated by environmental tobacco smoke: Sources of infant exposures.

Tobacco Control, 2004; 13(1):29-37.

Outline of

goals/objectives

The project aims to compare the chemical components in both e-vapour and those

residing in fabric.

Techniques the student would be working with include:

Sample preparation techniques (liquid-liquid extraction, solid-phase extraction,

head space sampling);

Chromatographic techniques (gas chromatography including 2 dimensional gas

chromatography, high performance liquid chromatography);

Mass spectrometry including high resolution mass spectrometry such as the

quadrupole time-of-flight (QTOF) mass spectrometry

Industry/external

partner N/A

Special

requirements None

UTS supervisor Shanlin Fu, Brian Oliver, Hui Chen


Contact [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]





forensic science honours projects · formally assessed. the remaining 12 credit points of study are...

Documents