PhD Projects
Gudor Szilárd: Developing next generation genetic markers to determine eDNA and non-human touch DNA profiles as forensic biotrace evidence.
During my master’s graduation my research focused on the expression and purification of monoclonal antibodies in human cell lines for use in cancer immunotherapy. Through internships, I acquired hands-on experience in molecular cancer diagnostics and related research, with a strong emphasis on mastering Sanger sequencing techniques.
My current research focuses on exploring the potential of eDNA analysis as a pioneering tool for forensic applications, specifically through the development of next-generation genetic markers and long-read DNA sequencing, to establish new methods for genetic identification of nonhuman biotrace evidence.
John Marty Mateo:
Estimating the postmortem interval (PMImin) using the larval and puparial stages of blow flies is limited to 4–6 months. After this period, especially once adult flies have emerged, empty puparia serve as valuable trace evidence that can persist for years. Since the life cycle varies between species, accurate identification is essential for PMImin estimation. Given these challenges, this study aims to chemically profile intra-puparial stages and empty puparia of forensically significant fly species (Calliphoridae, Sarcophagidae, and Muscidae) using GC-MS and FT-IR and apply machine learning techniques to develop predictive models for species identification and PMImin estimation.
Iannaccone Marco: Fungi as forensic tools
Forensic Mycology remains an underutilized tool in crime scene investigations. The present research aims to examine the diversity of fungal successions on cadavers to improve post-mortem interval estimation and identify key forensic markers. The main objectives include developing a forensic mycology database, establishing standardized sampling protocols, and analyse fungal growth under different conditions. A further objective is the improvement of the culture Collection of DISTAV (ColD-UNIGE), which is also a member of the Italian Microbial Resource Research Infrastructure (MIRRI-IT), and partner of the project “Strengthening the MIRRI Italian Research Infrastructure for Sustainable Bioscience and Bioeconomy (SUS-MIRRI.IT)”. It will result in an enhancement of forensic accuracy and will help to standardize methodologies in crime scene analysis, focusing on the biobanking of forensic fungi.
Manuel Fernando Mollon-Laorca:
Manuel Mollon graduated in Electronic Engineering with a specialization in Signal Processing in 2021 from the Instituto Tecnológico de Buenos Aires (ITBA). During his studies, he gained experience in data analytics and data science, participating in projects related to operating room optimization and surgery time prediction using artificial intelligence and machine learning. He is currently researching the use of non-human traces in forensic recognition, a field that faces challenges such as data scarcity and high dimensionality. His work will align with the recommendations of the European Network of Forensic Science Institutes (ENFSI) and the ISO/DIS 21043-4:2024 standard for forensic interpretation, conducting likelihood ratio (LR)-based methodologies for presenting results in court, integrating artificial intelligence to enhance the extraction and probabilistic calibration in European judicial processes.
Daniil Gornov: Natural Traces in forensic investigations – how pollen imprints can solve crime.
The project focuses on forensic palynology. The aim of the research is to extend the sampling methods and analysis of pollen and palynomorphs to dry (terrestrial) surfaces such as soil or clothing, or bodies, combining them with the sampling and analytical methods of forensic aerobiology. The study should aim to identify indicator species of botanical and geographical origin in palynological spectra, in accordance with the methods of palaeoecology, botany and ecology.
Beatrice Natale: Genetic analyses of natural traces of animal origin
The aim of the dissertation is to research and validate genetic methods for the analysis of non-human biological traces on crime scenes.
Different types of samples will be included in the research: a. air for the extraction of environmental DNA b. artifacts of Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) c. animal traces found on deceased persons during the legal-medicine examinations.
The research will be focused on all the steps of genetic analysis, from sample collection to DNA extraction, quantification and sequencing. Most of the interest is going to be addressed to amplification techniques like LAMP assay, samples preservation methodologies such as the usage of DNA/RNA Shield reagent, animal DNA Barcoding, molecular portable devices like Bento Lab, NGS (next-generation sequencing).
Bioinformatics and statistics will also be an important part for data analysis.
This study should contribute to novel research in the field of wildlife forensic science with the aim of elaborating new protocols that can overcome some of the issues related to the genetic analysis such as sample collection and preservation, DNA contamination and degradation, time management in forensic analysis.
Melika M. Kermani: Significance of acari as location and time markers of buried corpses and mass graves.
Melika Moghadaszdeh Kermani holds a B.Sc. in Plant Protection from Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Iran, where she gained experience in insect taxonomy and morphology while assisting with laboratory teaching and research. Her growing interest in arthropods and their applications in science led her to begin a PhD in Ecology & Evolutionary Biology at the University of Reading, England, as part of the Natural Traces project.
Her doctoral research focuses on the role of mites (forensic acarology) in forensic investigations, particularly within the unique and understudied context of mass graves. Mites are microscopic yet ubiquitous organisms that provide stage-specific signals during decomposition, making them valuable forensic indicators. This project investigates how mite communities can be used to estimate post-mortem intervals, compare their composition and diversity between mass graves and individual burials, and detect possible relocation of remains. It also explores how ecological traces from mites may provide insights into circumstances related to life before death.
By addressing this gap, her research aims to broaden the applications of forensic acarology and develop innovative tools for investigating complex burial environments, ultimately contributing to both forensic practice and humanitarian efforts.
Merle Luca Marie Dorsch: Using freshwater and marine diatoms as trace evidence and proof of drowning
Merle Dorsch’s academic journey began with a master’s degree in marine biology, during which she explored the potential for methane production by microphytobenthos, with a particular focus on diatoms. Most current forensic investigations involving non-human biological evidence predominantly focus on terrestrial environments. Diatoms are microscopic algae widely distributed across aquatic and moist terrestrial habitats, with each taxon exhibiting specific environmental preferences. These microalgae can persist as trace evidence, remaining detectable on surfaces such as footwear for weeks after initial contact. This project aims to broaden the scope of diatom analysis beyond traditional crime scenes, addressing the growing need for robust trace evidence methods in forensic science. By developing diatom-based forensic tools, the research seeks to improve the reconstruction of environmental characteristics in both aquatic and terrestrial contexts relevant to crime scene analysis.