All Forensic Microbiology articles
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NewsCorpses leave microbial fingerprints behind in the soil long after they’re gone
Researchers have found that trace elements of a cadaver linger at an original dump site even after an extensive amount of time. These elements can provide insights into postmortem processes, helping forensic investigators uncover clandestine burials and relocate the remains of murder victims.
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FeaturesMicrobial-induced pathologies in 80-million-year-old dinosaur bones
In the microbiology laboratory, we observe infection in real-time: bacterial colonies spreading across agar plates, inflammatory markers rising in blood samples, and immune responses captured at single timepoints. But what if we could watch only one frame at a time of an entire infection unfold from initial pathogen invasion through ...
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FeaturesUnder the microscope: Body farms
Human Taphonomy Facilities, also known as body farms, are outdoor research facilities used to study human decomposition under different environmental conditions and stressors.
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NewsNew study finds distinct city-specific gut microbiota linked to diet
A new study shows that the human gut microbiota can pinpoint whether an adult lives in Wuhan or Shiyan, two cities 500 km apart in China’s Hubei Province, with 94 % accuracy. This microbial signature is strongly linked to each city’s characteristic diet.
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NewsDNA floating in the air tracks wildlife, viruses — even drugs
A new study reveals the power of DNA, vacuumed up from the air, which can track everything from elusive bobcats to illicit drugs. A simple air filter running for hours, days or weeks can pick up signs of nearly every species that grows or wanders nearby.
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CareersEdie uncovers how microbes can shine light on dirt bike vandalism
For her AMI-sponsored Summer Placement, forensic science student Edie Holmes joined a team investigating whether microbial profiling could be used to link dirt bikes to vandalised sites of special scientific interest (SSSIs). Here’s what happened.
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FeaturesGenomic microbiology as applied to animal forensics
From the origins of anthrax to advancements in the field, dive into the microbial forensics of livestock, wildlife and human cases.
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FeaturesMicrobial interactions of the necrobiome
Researchers from Michigan State University provide an update on basic research and forensic applications.
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FeaturesForensics through biofilm microbiology
In the fashion of the legendary phoenix, microbial life springs from decaying matter such as the carcass of an animal.
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FeaturesForensic microbiology from an entomological perspective
Bridging multiple disciplines within the forensic sciences helps us better understand how human remains decompose.