OVERVIEW

In the last years scientific disciplines have been more and more used in the forensic and investigative process. Among the different disciplines biology plays a fundamental role in violent crimes against people, against wild animals and the environment. From this perspective the understanding of the forensic process and the way in which biologists and naturalists can be involved in answering to the investigative questions (6Ws) is an important element in the career and  portfolio of a student. 

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The module aim is to provide the student, also with case studies, a general view about the biological approach to the forensic process. The module will present both the teoretical and practical aspects of the forensic biological investigation focusing on:

1) definition of the"forensic process" and illustration of the biological/natural sciences applicable to the investigations;

2) importance of insects, animals and DNA in the forensic investigation;

3) the importance of forensic botany in violent crimes and in the analysis of poisons and drugs;

4) role of forensic mycology in the PMI estimation and in the analysis of toxines.

TEACHING METHODS

Students who have valid certification of physical or learning disabilities on file with the University and who wish to discuss possible accommodations or other circumstances regarding lectures, coursework and exams, should speak both with the instructor and with Professor Sara Ferrando (sara.ferrando@unige.it), the Department’s disability liaison.

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

Exam Board

LAURA CORNARA (President)

STEFANO VANIN (President)

MIRCA ZOTTI (President Substitute)

LESSONS

Class schedule

ELEMENTS OF FORENSIC BIOLOGY

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

The final mark will be the average of 4 independent assesments, one per each CFU, 3 calls during the winter period and 3 during the summer.

Because of the COVID-19 emergency check regularly the module website.

ASSESSMENT METHODS

Details about the assesments and the evaluation process will be explained by the lectureres during the teaching period. The assesment about the zoological topic will be a written report in order to test the ability of the student to apply the acquired knowledge to a realistic scenario. Other assesments woud be written exams, test or oral examinations. Oral examinations  will allow the lecturer to verify  the ability of the students to present in a clear, critical and professional way the theoretical components of the different components of the module

Because of the COVID-19 emergency check regularly the module website.

Exam schedule