28 October 2011

Magic Markers - Recent Developments in Fingerprinting and Beyond - Cafe Science event, 31st October

New fingerprinting techniques being developed in Dundee will be discussed at a Cafe Science event on Monday.

Forensics expert Professor David Bremner, Chair of Applied Environmental Science at the University of Abertay Dundee, will reveal how these techniques can reveal finger and hand marks on fabrics and clothing.

He will explain how this will help police, particularly when attempting to determine whether someone jumped or was pushed and in cases of sexual assaults.

Investigators have used fingerprints to catch criminals for over 150 years, and Professor Bremner’s talk will concentrate on the past, present and future of finger mark detection as well as offering the audience an opportunity to help solve a Halloween crime.

Dr Louise Murphy, event organiser and public engagement worker at the University of Dundee, said the event would provide an intriguing insight into this technique.

'Everyone knows that fingerprinting is used to solve crimes, but few people understand the exciting potential that new technology and knowledge brings to this tried and tested technique.

'The fact that these developments are taking place in Dundee is very exciting, and it will be fascinating to find out more about how the appliance of science can make a real difference in this area.'

Cafe Science was launched in January 2008, and has attracted an audience of more than 2500 to its events since then.

The monthly events are informal discussions led by leading local researchers that allow members of the public the opportunity to learn more about the ground-breaking science happening at Dundee's two universities, and Dundee Science Centre.

'Magic Markers - Recent Developments in Fingerprinting and Beyond’ takes place from 7pm on Monday, 31st October at Chambers Coffee House & Restaurant, South Tay Street.

This is a free event and everyone is welcome. There is no need to book in advance but attendees are advised to arrive early to avoid disappointment.

More details of upcoming events can be found at the Cafe Science website.

For media enquiries contact:
Grant Hill
Press Officer
University of Dundee
Nethergate, Dundee, DD1 4HN
TEL: 01382 384768
E-MAIL: g.hill@dundee.ac.uk
MOBILE: 07854 953277