Forensic science experts on hand to evaluate research proposals

A number of forensic science specialists will provide expert advice to the Research Councils when research grant proposals in forensic science are submitted.

As part of the Global Uncertainties programme, Research Councils UK (RCUK) worked with the Forensic Science Society to identify experts across the breadth of the forensic science landscape through an independent process where active researchers in the field were asked to nominate their peers.

The list of referees was compiled by RCUK, and the relevant Research Councils are able to contact anyone on the list for support and advice on forensic science research funding proposals, depending on the expertise that is required.

This exercise was initiated following the publication of the Silverman report in June 2011 and the closure of the Forensic Science Service, to ensure that research in forensic science is properly represented and supported in the UK. The work also coincided with other work by the Research Councils, for example EPSRC’s Peer Review College refresh exercise, which has meant that professional details of over 90 forensic science experts have been disseminated across the Research Councils and can be called on should a Council receive an application for funding in this area..

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Further information

Contact:
Katie Clark
Press and Communications Manager
Tel: 01793 444592 or email: Katie Clark

Notes to editors

1. For further information about EPSRC’s Peer Review College, visit www.epsrc.ac.uk/funding/apprev/college/Pages/default.aspx

2. Research Councils UK (RCUK) is the strategic partnership of the UK's seven Research Councils who annually invest around £3 billion in research. We support excellent research, as judged by peer review, that has an impact on the growth, prosperity and wellbeing of the UK. To maintain the UK’s global research position we offer a diverse range of funding opportunities, foster international collaborations and provide access to the best facilities and infrastructure around the world. We also support the training and career development of researchers and work with them to inspire young people and engage the wider public with research. To maximise the impact of research on economic growth and societal wellbeing we work in partnership with other research funders including the Technology Strategy Board, the UK Higher Education funding bodies, business, government, and charitable organisations. www.rcuk.ac.uk.

   The seven UK Research Councils are:

   • Arts & Humanities Research Council (AHRC);
   • Biotechnology & Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC);
   • Economic & Social Research Council (ESRC);
   • Engineering & Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC);
   • Medical Research Council (MRC);
   • Natural Environment Research Council (NERC);
   • Science & Technology Facilities Council (STFC).