Forensic Science, PhD/MSc by Research

At the University of Central Lancashire, we specialise in Forensic Anthropology and Forensic Taphonomy research. Our team of academics is internationally renowned and works on a number of cutting-edge projects.

Our academic team have wide-ranging expertise. We have specialists in anatomy, osteology, genetics and genomics, -omics disciplines, microbiome studies, human and animal decomposition, trauma, and disaster victim identification.

We perform forensic and taphonomic experiments at our Taphonomic Research in Anthropology: Centre for Experimental Studies (TRACES). TRACES is an animal taphonomy facility. It's a 13-acre research site where we perform empirical decomposition research.

We also have a dedicated forensic taphonomy laboratory. The laboratory is fully equipped with ad-hoc fume cupboards, FTIR and a mass spectrometry analytical suite.

You'll have access to a blood pattern analysis suite, as well as biomolecular, biochemistry and genetics research laboratories. These are designed to conduct forensic research at the highest standards. Our laboratories include a Pre-PCR and a Post-PCR room. The equipment available includes the ABI 3500XL Genetic Analyzer and an Oxford Nanopore GridION device.

Our osteological collection of archaeological human and faunal remains is one of the largest in the country. We have a dedicated bone lab for analysis of skeletal remains, stable isotope preparation lab and a suite of geophysical and excavation equipment. You'll also benefit from our Research Centre for Field Archaeology and Forensic Taphonomy and our Forens-OMICS team.

4-year Degree from Government University / Recognised Private University GPA 2.5/4 (C+) (Above Average) on the 4 point scale or 3/5 (70-75%) (C) (Good+) on the 5 point scale

Associate Degree AND2-year Degree from Government University / Recognised Private University GPA 2.5/4 (C+) (Above Average) on the 4 point scale or 3/5 (70-75%) (C) (Good+) on the 5 point scale