Crime Laboratory Operations
In crime laboratories, scientists analyze evidence collected from crime scenes, suspects and victims. They may analyze anything from DNA or fingerprints to human remains or suspicious substances.
Due to the increasing reliance on scientific methodologies in criminal investigations, many laboratories have faced mounting workloads. NIJ has committed to helping crime laboratories increase their capacity by streamlining their processes, hiring more personnel, purchasing technology and supplies and providing up-to-date training to keep up with technological capabilities in solving crime. NIJ also supports accessible resources for crime laboratory personnel, such as Web-based databases.
Learn more about:
Adopting New Technologies: Technology Transition Workshops
DNA Evidence Backlogs: Forensic Casework
DNA Evidence Backlogs: Convicted Offender and Arrestee Samples
Increasing Laboratory Capacity
Untested Evidence in Law Enforcement Agencies
Information Systems and Databases
National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs.gov)
Forensic Databases: Paint, Shoe Prints, and Beyond (NIJ Journal)