HSEM2252H

The living human body maintains many well-understood physiological functions that remain in homeostasis. But after death, these same physiological functions become chaotic and contribute to the decomposition of a body in somewhat predictable ways. During the semester we will understand how death and the progressive stages of decomposition are used to "talk" to scientists and assist them in forensic investigations.

Through a blend of theoretical study and practical application, students will develop a comprehensive understanding of how different disciplines within forensic science contribute to forensic investigations and making determinations regarding time of death, manner of death and cause of death. This seminar combines case studies, guest presentations by forensic experts, and hands-on laboratory exercises. Students will engage in critical analysis of real-world cases and participate in simulated crime scene investigations to apply theoretical knowledge. This course will include an overview of the following topics:

-Ethics in forensic science research
-Taphonomy: understanding how a body changes from the time of death to the time of recovery
-Pathology: understanding how body tissues can be used to indicate cause of death
-Osteology: techniques used to identify individuals based on bone morphology and facial reconstruction
-Odontology: techniques used to identify the identity and geographic origin of an unknown individual.
-Toxicology: analysis of how drugs, poisons and toxins can be identified in tissue
-Chemistry: techniques to identify chemical changes in human tissue following death
-Histology: analysis of techniques used to identify microscopic cause of death
-Microbiology: techniques used to determine cause and time of death using microbes

We will explore these topics by discussing assigned readings from peer-reviewed journals, videos, and non-fiction writings. Students will be responsible for contributing to daily class discussions, participating in activities, leading daily discussions, and presenting two reviews of an assigned case study.

000571

Periodic Fall & Spring