Challenges in Detection Approaches for Forensic Science

Dr Lynn Dennany is based the University of Strathclyde and her research interests focus on the application of analytical detection techniques for chemical and sensor development within the fields of illicit substances and explosives. Within this, her group researches three core areas: novel ECL materials, including nanoparticles, monomeric and polymeric materials; development of robust surface attachment strategies for enhanced ECL sensitivities and multiplexed detection; and the creation of novel advance methodologies for ultrasensitive chemical detection that will improve on site and portable forensic detection strategies. In particular, the detection of trace levels of illicit substances and the development of electrochemical strategies for biological evidence identification and quantification are continuing themes within her group. She is also keenly interested in the development of novel materials for these forensic applications as well as finding new avenues to apply these new materials. This has currently expanded to include the electrochemical detection of illicit substances such as drugs of abuse, both from street and biological samples, explosives, gunshot residue detection and forensically relevant genetic sequences.