This module introduces the learner to the area of Forensic Science. They will discover the historical developments of Forensics and Forensic Science in Ireland. Others areas of study include crime scene evidence recovery and the subsequent analysis in the laboratory of the evidence.

1. Outline the historical developments of forensic science.
2. Recognise the common types of evidence found at crime scenes.
3. Describe the role of the forensics scientists in crime scene investigations.
4. Discuss the role played by forensics scientists in solving landmark crimes.
5. Perform analysis on a variety of samples collected at a crime scenes.

Analytical Forensics 2.1 module combines theory with practical work where forensic case studies provide the backdrop for chemical analyses in the laboratory. The student has a comprehensive knowledge of spectroscopic and chromatographic techniques for qualitative and quantitative analysis of organic and inorganic chemical entities. The theory is presented to illustrate "real world" applications of analytical chemistry in forensic science.

The student learns the basic methods of spectroscopy which include uv/visible radiation (UV-Vis), fluorescence, atomic absorption (AA), flame absorption and infra-red (R). The basic methods of chromatography which include gas chromatography (GC), high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), thin layer chromatography (TLC) and ion-exchange column chromatography (IEC) are also covered.

Through the practical work the student learns how to follow procedures, to prepare samples for analysis, use mathematical methods to process analytical data, obtain quantitative results and report results in a proper manner with the end goal of solving the particular forensic scene scenario.

1. Display a knowledge of the basic theoretical principles underlying methods of spectroscopic and chromatographic analysis and an understanding how they can be applied in the context of forensic. To be able to apply the theory to the forensic analysis of drugs, polymers, toxicological samples, fibres, paint, explosives, arson residues, and documents.

2. Follow laboratory procedures and prepare samples for analysis by spectroscopic and chromatographic techniques.
3. Operate a wide range of analytical instrumentation under supervision.
4. Process analytical data and obtain quantitative results.
5. Write reports using mathematical methods.
6. Assess the validity of the results

The aim of this module is to introduce the Irish legal System and the role that the Forensic Scientist plays within it.

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the role of law in society and identify the sources of law and their relative positions of authority within the Irish legal system.

2. Learn and demonstrate an understanding expert witness testimony including the principles of forensic reporting, identifying the key issues to report and the role of probability.

3. Explain and differentiate the role of persons in legal proceedings

4. Identify the rules which govern the relevant aspect of the law of evidence.
5. Trace the development of criminal principles and apply criminal principles to factual scenarios.

The module encompasses analysing data, summarising it concisely, modelling it for presentation it and extracting all significant information therefrom. Skills in Interpreting mathematical statements will be imparted. Following an introduction to basic statistics a range of statistical tests will be studied and the best available statistical test(s) will be employed to arrive at decisions based on the data presented. Suitable theoretical models will be proposed to explain observed measurements.

1. Record, model, present, analyse and interpret experimental data performing logarithmic transformation and regression when appropriate

2. Suitably manipulate and transform equations in order to simplify the process being described and to extract desired parameters.
3. Calculate the probability of an event and the expectation from a given distribution

4. Implement various mathematical and statistical operations, tests and computations for making quantitative decisions about a process or processes.

This module advances the theoretical knowledge and practical skills gained from the fundamentals of organic chemistry introduced in Chemistry 1.1. Learners will be introduced to the concepts of conformation and configuration of organic molecules. Step-by-step reaction mechanisms (addition, substitution, and elimination reactions) using a variety of organic molecules will be examined and intermediate formation such as carbocation and the bromonium ion will be addressed. Students will be introduced to Green Chemistry theory such as the 12 Principles of Green Chemistry and will undertake Green Chemistry Lab practicals which encompass such principles. Small organic molecules will be synthesized and characterised in the laboratory, with theoretical principles used to explain experimental observations. Students will learn to calculate percentage yield and atom economy to determine reaction efficiency

1. Name and draw simple aliphatic, cyclic, and aromatic organic molecules

2. Identify features that give rise to chirality in organic molecules and assign the R/S designation to compounds with a single stereogenic centre.

3. Explain step-by-step reaction mechanisms of common organic chemical reactions (addition, substitution, and elimination reactions)

4. Discuss the basic principles of green and sustainable chemistry.

5. Synthesis and characterise small organic molecules, practice some principles of green chemistry.

An introduction to inorganic chemistry in terms of its principles and applications.

1. Discuss the principles of bonding and structure in inorganic substances.
2. Discuss the importance of transition metal ions and complexes.
3. Understand the fundamental principles of inorganic chemistry thereby enabling further study.
4. Predict the outcomes of simple acid-base and redox reactions.
5. Select techniques for the appropriate synthesis, analysis and characterisation of inorganic compounds.
6. Assess the validity of experimental data, compare test results with expected results, and assess any discrepancies.
7. Operate a range of instrumentation, obtain data and report the results in a competent manner.
8. Operate under supervision in a laboratory situation.

Introductory module on DNA biology incorporating DNA isolation, manipulation, electrophoresis and analysis from the perspective of molecular forensics.

1. Discuss the structure of andreplication ofDNA.

2. Recognise the major variable sequence segments that exist within genomic DNA.
3. Prepare DNA from simulated forensic samples.
4. Describe different DNA extraction methodologies and techniques.

5. Discuss the merits and limitations associated withdifferent sources of DNA (e.g. mitochondrial and genomic DNA).

6. Perform asingle nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotypingassay.

7. Use PCR and capillary/gel electrophoresis equipment to amplify and separate DNA fragments.

8. Interpret banding patterns/electropherograms using image analysis software.

Semester-long module will consist of two hours of theory and two hours of practical work per week.

Analytical Techniques 2.2 module combines theory with practical work covering the basic techniques used in electrochemical and water analysis. The student will use pH and conductivity meters, various ion selective electrodes and employ use of titration to confirm the analytical methods.

Through the practical work the student learns how to follow procedures, to prepare samples for analysis, use mathematical methods to process analytical data, obtain quantitative results and report results in a proper manner.

1. Understand the basic theory of instrumental methods in electrochemistry.
2. Operate a range of electrochemical instrumentation.
3. Prepare and use samples in qualitative and quantitative analysis.
4. Determine the composition of real samples.
5. Select the correct analytical technique for analysis.
6. Assess the validity of experimental data.
7. Compare test results with expected results.
8. Appreciate the importance of applying specific procedures in electrochemical and water analytical analysis to ensure reliability and accuracy of any data obtained and reported.

An introductory module to the subject area of computer and digital forensics (Level 6 – 7).

1. Have an understanding of computer organisation & architecture.
2. Have an appreciation of the fundamentals of the subject area of computer / digital forensics.
3. Understand the digital investigation process.
4. Be able to compare and contrast digital / computer forensics to other forenisic science disciplines.
5. Understand the need for digital evidence controls.
6. Understand the legal and procedural differences between civil and criminal investigations.

This module provides knowledge and skills of quality management which can be applied to forensic laboratories and also to the pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical and medical device industry laboratories.

1. Understand the role and function of quality within the laboratory and industry.

2. Outline the role andfunction of Quality Assurance, GMP and Quality Controlwithin the laboratory and industry.

3. Identify the agencies which regulate quality standards.

4. Explain the role of ISO 17025 in an analytical laboratory.

5. Design SOPs using laboratory standards and regulatory guidelines.

6. Describe the responsibilities of the employee and employer with regard to health and safety in the laboratory and industry.

This module provides an introduction to the fascinating field of study which is physical chemistry. Particular emphasis in this module is placed on the transformation of one substance to another from the point of view of thermodynamics (energy associated with chemical reactions), kinetics (rates of chemical reactions) and equilibrium (extent of chemical reactions). It includes the qualitative and quantitative study, both experimental and theoretical, of the factors determining the behaviour of matter.

1. Assess the validity of experimental data.
2. Operate a range of instrumentation.
3. Appreciate the importance of adhering to correct procedures.
4. Compare test results with expected results.
5. Calculate the energy changes, rate and extent of chemical reactions.

This module develops the concepts and knowledge from the organic chemistry 2.1 module and gives further practice in writing formulas and structures for organic molecules, in identifying and naming functional groups, and in understanding the basic mechanisms that govern organic reactions. As well as further transformations of functional groups, the basics of carbon-carbon bond formation are introduced. The use of techniques such as IR and NMR to confirm the structure of organic molecules is also studied. Routine skills in the laboratory are further developed to enable the learner to synthesise, identify, purify and predict the behaviour of small organic molecules.

1. Write equations for the synthesis and reactions of simple alcohols, phenols, ethers and various carbonyl compounds.
2. Illustrate how transformations between alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, acids and acid derivatives are carried out.
3. Predict the outcome of reaction of carbonyl compounds with a variety of nucleophiles, including Grignard reagents.
4. Explain the relationship between structure and acidity in organic molecules.
5. Analyse and interpret information from both infrared and 1 H-NMR spectra of simple organic molecules.
6. Set up appropriate laboratory apparatus for the preparation of a variety of small organic molecules, use instrumentation such as infrared and NMR to analyse reactants and products, and present laboratory reports in standardised format.

The basic principles of crime scene management are discussed. The learner is then introduced to the collection, packaging and the analysis of physical evidence found at a crime scene.

1. Recognise how a crime scene may be preserved and recorded.
2. Discuss the general principles in the search for physical evidence.
3. Describe the collection. packaging and storage of evidence.
4. Explain the collection of control samples.
5. Examine and characterise trace evidence.

This module introduces the learner to the theory of modern Chromatography. This includes the instrumentation and detectors associated with Gas Chromatography (GC), High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Ion Chromatography (IC) . This module also covers sample preparation and extraction with particular emphasis on trace analysis. The analysis of various pharmaceutical and forensic samples will be carried out in the laboratory to practically illustrate the theory and enable students to develop their analytical laboratory skills.

1. Understand the major differences between Gas Chromatography and HPLC. Be familiar with the associated technique of Ion Chromatography
2. Choose the correct chromatographic analytical technique and detectordepending on the physical properties of the sample being analysed

3. Recognise when to use external standards, internal standards and standard addition procedures for calculating the content of unknown samples

4. Know how to extract samples using solvent-solvent extractionand solid phase micro extraction

5. Perform and interpretqualitative and quantitative chromatographic separations

An applied module in computer forensic process. (Level 7)

1. Interpret storage medium and file system forensics.
2. Explain the procedural aspects of windows operating system forensics.
3. Discuss the digital investigation process.
4. Compare and contrast digital / computer forensics to other forenisic science disciplines.
5. Describe the forensic response process and the need for digital evidence controls.

This module focuses on the application of spectrophotometric methods to the identification and quantification of pharmaceutical substances. Atomic absorption and emission techniques as well as molecular absorption and emission techniques are studied in the context of providing quality control methods for drug substances and drug products. Structural techniques such as IR and NMR are also examined as tools to aid in identification of active ingredients as well as impurities or degradants. The analysis of various pharmaceuticals is carried out in the laboratory to practically illustrate the theory and enable the student to develop their analytical laboratory skills.

1. Describe and explain the operation of flame and graphite furnace atomic absorption as well as associated methods such as the hydride or cold vapour method.
2. Discuss emission methods such as ICP, and outline sample preparation methods for either absorption or emission analysis.
3. Identify common chromophores in pharmaceutical substances and discuss the use of UV/VIS spectrophotometry for calculation of drug concentrations, drug release, drug solubility etc. in either single or multicomponent formulations.
4. Explain the relationship between molecular structure and fluorescence and use data from fluorimetric measurements for quantitative pharmaceutical analysis.
5. Discuss the role of both mid IR and NIR in quality control of pharmaceutical substances.
6. Discuss the use of NMR and MS in the characterisation of structures of pharmaceutical substances.
7. Set up and use spectrophotometric instruments to examine a variety of pharmaceutical substances and use data obtained for either qualitative or quantitative analysis of such substances.

This module expands on topics previously introduced in other organic chemistry modules. In-depth coverage is provided of the concept of aromaticity and of factors influencing both rate and orientation in electrophilic aromatic substitution. The mechanistic basis of carbon-carbon bond forming reactions is dealt with in detail, with various organometallic reagents and reactions involving carbanions discussed. Chemoselective oxidation and reduction reactions are also studied. Previous coverage of infrared and 1H-NMR is expanded on, 13C-NMR is introduced, as is mass spectrometry, and information from the various spectroscopic techniques is integrated with a view to solving structures of organic molecules.

1. Explain the phenomenon of aromaticity in organic chemistry including molecular orbital theory, reactivity effects and orientation in electrophilic aromatic substitution

2. Identify chemoselectivity in reactions involving oxidising agents, reducing agents and organometallics

3. Describe a variety of carbon-carbon bond forming reactions including the mechanism involved and their application in organic synthesis

4. Integrate information from infrared, H NMR, C NMR and mass spectrometry in order to assign structures to small aliphatic and aromatic organic molecules.

5. Carry out a range of synthetic and analytical techniques within a laboratory setting appropriate to synthetic organic chemistry

Development of technical competency in routine forensic DNA protocols and equipment operation. The module will also develop trouble-shooting skills whenever problematic issues arise with sample materials, reagents, equipment, and protocols. Students will also look at the quality perspective associated with Forensic DNA analysis and issues associated with DNA typing.

1. Describe appropriate methods for biological material collection, characterisation and storage.
2. Extract DNA from challenging samples.
3. Use various PCR and fragment analysis protocols, and operate and trouble-shoot the former.
4. Detect and interpret STR polymorphisms in human genomic DNA and trouble-shoot STR protocols.
5. Detect and interpret SNP genotypes from human genomic DNA.
6. Describe the role of Proficiency Testing and its importance in the Forensic DNA laboratory.
7. Discuss the predominant validation and calibration activities that are associated with Forensic DNA laboratories.
8. Critically analyse DNA typing processes and decisions around typing strategiesusedto type human remains.

Students are placed in an appropriate organisation in order to complete a six month work placement. Placements must be approved by the academic placement supervisor prior to commencement. The student will be placed under the guidance of a placement supervisor from the host company. This placement will provide the opportunity for each student to gain practical experience in a real-life setting.

Students alternatively can enrol in an Erasmus exchange programme with an appropriate academic institution subject to approval by the programme board.

An Academic placement may also be carried out at GMIT when facilitation at an external setting is not possible. Alternatively a hybrid model may be employed involving a combination of external and internal opportunities.

1. Illustrate the organizational structure of the host company.
2. Describe the regulatory working environment of the company, including the basis of the company’s GMP, validation and health and safety procedures.
3. Communicate effectively with other staff.
4. Organise workload and set priorities.
5. Discuss the importance of quality management.
6. Have significantly contributed to the achievement of one or more of the industry’s production, quality, regulatory or other objectives.
7. Criticially evaluate their placement experience in terms of personal development and assess the effect of their placement experience on their future career prospects

In the Pharmacopoeia Methods section many of the tests carried out on pharmaceuticals, which are outlined in the British Pharmacopoeia, are performed. In the electrochemical methods section experiments are performed in potentiometric, conductometric and voltammetric methods of analysis. The necessary theoretical principles are discussed in lectures.

1. The graduate should be able to describe, compare and contrast the analysis of pharmaceutical compounds by volumetric and electrochemical methods.
2. Describe the role of analytical chemistry in drug development and drug production.
3. Have the capability to measure the purity of pharmaceuticals using techniques such as conductivity meters, pH meters, autotitrators, Karl Fischer, Voltametry equipment, Oxygen Flask combustion, Kjeldahl apparatus and IR.
4. Be capable of selecting the correct electrode and sample preparation method for a particular analysis.
5. Have knowledge of the content of the two volumes of the British Pharmacopoeia.

This module covers the statistical methods required for the analysis and interpretation of forensic evidence, module also covers trajectories & functions for analysis of crime scenes. Student will also receive training in courtroom skills and expert witness report preparation.

1. Understand the role of exponential & logarithmics functions in forensic science and use such functions to solve chemical kinetic problems.
2. Interpret data arising from measurements made at a crime scene using trigonometric methods.
3. Construct likelihood ratios and apply Bayes theorem to the prosecutor / defence fallacy
4. Calculate theoretical & empirical probabilities and determine probability distributions.
5. Discuss the role of the forensic scientist as an expert witness and present scientific data in court room setting
6. Conduct hypothesis testing on analytical data.

This module will give the learner the opportunity to apply their scientific training to a number of key areas in Forensic Chemistry. Specialists areas of study will include, drug identification and forensic drug analysis.

1. Compare classes of forensic drugs and their origins
2. Explain the logic behind the choice of reactions and reagents used in organic synthesis including the approach used to devise synthetic routes to organic compounds
3. Examine the use of stable isotope analysis for drug analysis and other forensic applications
4. Evaluate the chemistry of illicit drug manufacture
5. Investigate drug profiling and impurity profiling as a means to understanding drug supply chains through forensic chemistry
6. Discuss suitable analytical techniques for drug analysis and the determination of their source of manufacture

This module provides the theoretical insight and practical skills required to plan, implement, analyse and report on a research project in Forensic Science.

1. Assess the different kinds of research designs and methodology in terms of their appropriateness, transparency and quality
2. Source scientific literature and access relevant information through the use of journals, books, abstracts, inter-library loans, the Internet and other electronic media
3. Selectively abstract, synthesize and collate relevant information
4. Communicate scientific proposals, papers and reports with clarity and logical structure.
5. Prepare a scientific poster on a scientific subject
6. Identify and choose a research project topic and plan the delivery of that research project

This module introduces the learner to the principles of network forensics. The module will cover important concepts, such as, network threats, network evidence and network forensic tools.

1. Demonstrate a working knowledge of how to use forensic analytical techniques in computer networks and systems.

2. Identify and apply the professional standards that apply to forensic computer analysts.

3. Have an appreciation of the fundamentals of the subject area of computer network forensics.
4. Identify and use the digital investigation process for open / networked systems.

5. Recognise the importance ofdigital evidence controls.

The aim of this module will be to introduce students to the principles of environmental forensic science. In particular, they will learn about the transport and fate of chemicals in the environment. This is broken up into the primary 'crime scene' where pollution first occurs, which can often be hundreds of kilometers away from an impacted area. Pollutants can then undergo changes as they interact with various environment factors such as UV light and weathering and as they move through the different environmental compartments. Linking a pollutant to its source involves understanding and quantifying these changes. A large portion of the lab work will be based on sampling of environmental matrices followed by trace analysis for POPs and oil fingerprinting, the examination of environmental information that is used in law to allocate responsibility for contamination.

1. Design and prepare a sampling and analysis plan for an environmental incident
2. Demonstrate competence with field work, taking samples and subsampling/sample preparation
3. Select analytical methods for environmental analysis
4. Evaluate the success of analytical measurements on environmental matrices
5. Examine and analyse data to pinpoint sources of pollution
6. Assess the law as it relates to environmental analysis

This module will give the learner the opportunity to apply their scientific training to a number of key areas in Forensic Chemistry. Specialists areas of study will include fire and explosion analysis as well as a series of labs covering analytical techniques relevant to forensic investigation.

1. Examine the chemistry of combustion, arson, high energy materials, explosions, firearms use and the forensic analysis of related evidence.
2. Evaluate detection methods for analysing combustible materials and high energy materials and residues of combustion and explosions
3. Appraise the chemistry of ink and paint and use appropriate techniques to analyse evidence based on these materials
4. Critically assess various analytical techniques for forensics chemical analysis in light of the requirements of modern forensic investigation

This module provides the practical skills required to plan, implement, analyse and report on a scientific project in Forensic Science.

1. Develop a project plan and perform the necessary investigative work
2. Select appropriate experimental or other methodologies
3. Analyse experimental results / other findings
4. Present reasoned discussions and draw appropriate conclusions from their research work
5. Present a written typed dissertation

6. Deliver an oral presentation on their project work

The module includes advanced analytical techniques in spectroscopy, chromatography and solid state methods. Emphasis is placed on the theoretical foundations of the techniques such as decoupling techniques in NMR, fragmentation patterns in MS and crystal structure in x-ray diffraction.

1. The learner will be expected to be able to critically assess different methods of analysis, and apply these methods of analysis to the solution of real analytical problems.
2. The learner will be expected to be able to explain the principles and applications of techniques including: Chromatographic techniques, Solid State methods, NMR Spectrometry, Mass Spectrometry, Thermochemical analysis, Electrochemical and Solid State Sensors.
3. The learner should be able:
– To evaluate the various analytical techniques and apply them to real life analytical problems.
– To review analytical techniques with regard to their suitability for a given analysis
– To interpret spectra and deduce molecular structure from such data.
– To interpret powder diffraction patterns.
– To apply XRF to analysis of materials
– To identify the optimum technique for analysis in a given situation.
4. The learner should be able:
– To work on their own or as part of a team in designing and optimizing analytical techniques.
– To able to read published literature in analytical science and apply published methods to their own samples.
– Be able to modify published methods to suit their own samples.