Molecular Forensics offers a comprehensive coverage of the increasingly important role that molecular analysis plays within forensic science. Starting with a broad introduction of modern forensic molecular technologies, the text covers key issues from the initial scenes of crime sampling to the use of evidential material in the prosecution of legal cases. The book also explores the questions raised by the growing debate on the applications of national DNA databases and the resulting challenges of developing, maintaining and curating such vast data structures. The broader range of applications to non-human cases is also discussed, as are the statistical pitfalls of using so-called unique data such as DNA profiles, and the ethical considerations of national DNA databases.

An invaluable reference for students taking courses within the Forensic and Biomedical sciences, and also useful for practitioners in the field looking for a broad overview of the subject.

• Provides a comprehensive overview of modern forensic molecular technologies.

• Explores the growing debate on the applications of national DNA databases.

• Discusses the initial phases of investigation to the conclusion of cases involving molecular forensic analysis.

Dr Ralph Rapley, Department of Biosciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK

Dr David Whitehouse, Consultant Biotechnologist and Research Fellow, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, UK