Handbook 2008

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Forensic Biology and Toxicology (BForensics)

Course Code: B1256

Forensic Biology and Toxicology is concerned with the application of the techniques of molecular biology (DNA profiling) and analytical chemistry (drug and alcohol analysis) to the fight against crime. The major provides in-depth study of modern molecular genetics including practical training in the techniques of genetic analysis such as the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and the use of VNTRs (variable number of tandem repeats), STRs (short tandem repeats) and SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms) to identify regions of DNA. The application of these techniques to the analysis of ancient DNA is discussed. Training is also provided in forensic pathology, forensic anthropology, forensic toxicology and forensic botany with an emphasis on the gathering of evidence and its presentation in court.

Hands-on experience is also provided in the modern analytical techniques associated with the detection of legal and illicit drugs and homicidal poisons including gas chromatography, HPLC, NMR and mass spectrometry. The major also provides thorough training in biochemistry, including aspects of drug metabolism, and incorporates case studies and examples from a wide range of forensic investigations which are supported by guest lectures from forensic science professionals.

Level:	Bachelor
Qualification:	Bachelor of Forensics (BForensics) in Forensic Biology and Toxicology
Duration:	3 years full-time or part-time equivalent
Availability:	Murdoch campus (internal)
Employment Prospects:	The establishment of a national DNA database and the increasing emphasis on the monitoring of blood and urine samples for residual alcohol and drugs has seen a significant increase in employment opportunities for forensic biologists and toxicologists, particularly in government Health Departments and in analytical laboratories. Graduates have also found employment as Crime Scene Officers. The techniques of genetic analysis and analytical chemistry are highly transportable and graduates can also expect to obtain employment in hospitals, research organisations such as the CSIRO and in medical research centres, agriculture departments, food processing companies or in the pharmaceutical industry.
Special Requirements:	Students undertaking units in Forensic Biology and Toxicology will not be required to kill any vertebrate animal but they will be required to work with fresh tissues from dead animals in certain units. Students will also be exposed to graphic images of homicidal injuries.
Professional Recognition:	Students who complete the three-year double major in Forensic Biology and Toxicology and Chemistry are eligible for membership of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI).

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