Innovation in Forensics: A Community Effort 

Report Date

January 2020

Introduction

Innovation in forensic science advances new technologies and techniques to improve the scientific foundation of the field as well as the objective collection, analysis, and interpretation of evidence. These advancements can have a significant impact on the forensic community; however, incorporating technologies and knowledge into practice is challenging and requires strategic and committed community engagement. This in-brief introduces the concept of the forensic innovation ecosystem and further identifies and considers the roles of various stakeholders and activities required for success in the forensic innovation ecosystem. Toward this aim, the National Institute of Justice’s (NIJ) Forensic Technology Center of Excellence (FTCoE) supports the forensic innovation ecosystem by connecting stakeholder groups and supporting researchers through technology transition to practice.

“Innovation requires connections… among key stakeholders … These connections are increasingly taking place in ‘innovation ecosystems’.”

              —Fiona Murray and Phil Buddem, MIT Sloan School

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