Dr Rachel Bajwa

I joined LSBU as a Lecturer in Forensic Science within the School of Applied Sciences in 2022, having worked as a Forensic Examiner for the Metropolitan Police Service for just over 7 years. My first degree was a BSc in Molecular Biology with Forensic Science from Queen Mary University of London, graduating in 2006. This was followed by a PhD in Biomaterials in which I studied bioreactor surfaces for cell interactions and sensing. I am also a Member of the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences.

My role as a Forensic Examiner involved the recovery of trace evidence and examination of crime scene exhibits for DNA, hairs, blood, semen, and saliva. I assisted in the development and execution of forensic strategies and auditing of technical procedures.
My research interests include the area of forensic genetics and human identity within forensic casework. I have previously carried out research, presented and published for the International Society of Forensic Genetics. This focused on ‘The beneficial effect of extending the Y-Chromosome haplotype’, at the Institute of Cell and Molecular Sciences, Bart’s and the Royal London School of Medicine and Dentistry. My current research interests involve the analysis of surface interactions between biological evidence and crime scene exhibits. This combines my passion for biomaterials and forensic science to help me gain knowledge and understanding in casework.
At LSBU I deliver lectures and practical sessions in Biological Evidence, Case Assessment and Interpretation, Introduction to Forensic Biology and Crime Laboratory. I also supervise project students on the Year 3 Research Project module.