What is Forensic Chemistry?

Forensic Chemistry focuses on the analysis of chemical evidence in legal investigations. It involves the identification and interpretation of substances such as drugs, toxins, explosives, gunshot residue and trace materials recovered from crime scenes. Using advanced analytical techniques, forensic chemists generate reliable scientific data that can be used as evidence in court.

Within the Forensic Science program, students are introduced to the principles of evidence recovery, laboratory analysis and quality control. Forensic Chemistry emphasises both theoretical understanding and practical laboratory skills, enabling students to analyse complex chemical data and apply it within a forensic context.

This field is suited to students with a strong interest in chemistry who want to apply scientific knowledge to real-world problems within the justice system.

Research in this field is conducted mainly by Dr J.A. Viljoen. Current focus areas include drug analysis, toxicology, gunshot residue analysis and questioned document examination.