Innovation in Forensics: A Community Effort

• NCJ Number: 304675
• Date Published: January 2020
• Grant Number(s): 2016-MU-BX-K110; 2011-DN-BX-K564
• Agencies: NIJ-Sponsored
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical)

Annotation

This “in-brief” introduces the concept of the forensic innovation ecosystem and further identifies and addresses the roles of various stakeholders and activities required for success in the forensic innovation ecosystem.

 

Abstract

Innovation in forensic science involves the development and testing of new technologies and techniques that improve the scientific foundation of the field and the objective collection, analysis, and interpretation of evidence. Incorporating technologies and knowledge into practice is challenging and requires strategic and committed community engagement. Based on this perspective, this report introduces the forensic innovation ecosystem concept as a framework for understanding and improving the transition of research and technology into forensic practice. The forensic innovation ecosystem is composed of a network of multiple stakeholders, including researchers, funding agencies, development partners, suppliers, legal and policy professionals, accrediting bodies, and criminal justice end users working together in developing, validating, and implementing forensic technology transition solutions. Stakeholders in this ecosystem play key roles in enabling technology adoption and transitioning knowledge into practice. This report identifies and considers the roles of various stakeholders and activities required for success in the forensic innovation ecosystem.