IUPUI’s Jay Siegel published: Fundamentals of Forensic Science

INDIANAPOLIS - 04.14.2006

Unlike other introductory textbooks on the topic, Fundamentals of Forensic Science presents a complete look at the forensic sciences, emphasizing the biology, chemistry, and physical sciences that underpin forensic science. By covering the principles that are central to forensic science, and by discussing topics that are typically excluded from generalized discussions of criminalistics, this book provides a depth and breadth of information that no other textbook contains. Written by two of the leading experts in forensic science today, Fundamentals of Forensic Science approaches the field from a truly unique and exciting perspective.

Ranging from traditional topics such as crime scene investigation, spectroscopy, and DNA analysis, to the less-commonly covered --but just as essential-- topics of pathology, entomology, and anthropology, Fundamentals of Forensic Science is everything a student or practicing professional needs. Organized along the timeline of a real case, it begins with an introduction and history of forensic science, covers the basic methods of analysis used in most forensic examinations, addresses the biological, chemical, and physical elements relevant to the field, and concludes with an examination of how forensic science intersects with the law.

• Vivid, full-color illustrations that diagram key concepts and depict evidence encountered in the field
• Straightforward unit organization that includes key terms, numerous feature boxes emphasizing resources on the World Wide Web, historical events in forensic science, practical issues in laboratory analysis, and topics for further reading
• Effective pedagogy including end-of-chapter questions paired with a clear writing style makes this an invaluable resource for professors and students of forensic science

About the Authors

Mr. Houck currently heads the forensic Science initiative at West Virginia University. Previously he was a Physical Scientist at the FBI laboratory in Washington, D.C., and Chairman of the Scientific Working Group for Materials (SWGMAT), a peer-consensus group of over 80 trace evidence scientists from around the world. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Forensic Science, and an active member of several scientific societies.

Dr Jay A Siegel is the Associate Director and professor of Forensic Science of the School of Criminal Justice, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI USA. He has a PhD in Analytical Chemistry from George Washington University, Washington, DC USA.

Dr Siegel has worked as a forensic chemist with the Virginia Bureau of Forensic Sciences and was a professor of chemistry and forensic science at Metropolitan State College, Denver, Colorado USA. He is a fellow of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences and serves on the Editorial Board of the Journal of Forensic Sciences. He is also a member of the American Chemical Society, the International Association for Identification, the Forensic Science Society (UK) and is a Distinguished Member of the Southwestern Association of Forensic Sciences.

Dr Siegel's present duties include teaching in and coordinating the Forensic Science Masters program at Michigan State and serving as Associate Director of the School of Criminal Justice.

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