NIJ FY09 Social Science Research in Forsensic Science

The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) is the research, development, and evaluation agency of the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and a component of the Office of Justice Programs (OJP). NIJ provides objective, independent, evidence-based knowledge and tools to enhance the administration of justice and public safety. NIJ solicits applications to inform its search for the knowledge and tools to guide policy and practice. Forensic science, particularly in the area of DNA, has experienced numerous advances over the last decade. Improvements in science and technology have increased capabilities to use DNA in terms of the amount of evidence needed to obtain DNA, the speed of DNA processing, and the range of crimes DNA can help solve. NIJ is interested in stimulating research to examine the impact of these forensic advances on the criminal justice system as well as the impact of changes in policies to adapt to the more widespread use of DNA.