Her Work
Oluwayemisi “Yemi” Akande is a PhD graduate in Forensic Science from Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge — where her doctoral research focused on fingermark development on contemporary plastic substrates. Her work combined experimental research, surface chemistry, and quantitative statistical analysis to evaluate forensic evidence recovery from materials that present significant challenges to traditional fingermark enhancement techniques. She recently passed her PhD viva with minor corrections.
Alongside her doctoral research, Yemi has built a substantive academic career at ARU — serving as an Associate Lecturer, Postgraduate Student Representative, and Race Equality Advocate. She brings experience in teaching support, scientific writing, curriculum diversification, and communicating complex forensic research to both academic and wider audiences.
With a foundation in cell biology and genetics from the University of Lagos and a Master's degree in Forensic Science and Technology from Anglia Ruskin University, Yemi brings an unusually broad scientific perspective to forensic evidence evaluation — and is currently seeking research opportunities in Canada.
Areas of Expertise
Fingermark Development
Doctoral research specialising in fingermark enhancement on contemporary plastic substrates — evaluating which development techniques are most effective on surfaces that challenge conventional forensic methods.
Surface Chemistry
Applying surface chemistry principles to understand how substrate composition affects fingermark deposition, retention, and enhancement outcomes in forensic evidence recovery contexts.
Quantitative Data Analysis
Designing and executing statistical analyses of experimental forensic data — translating laboratory results into evidence-based conclusions with rigorous quantitative support.
Forensic Evidence Evaluation
Evaluating the recovery, quality, and investigative value of forensic physical evidence — with a focus on the practical application of research findings to real-world crime scene and laboratory settings.
Beyond the Laboratory
Associate Lecturer — Anglia Ruskin University
Supporting marking and assessment of coursework and modules at ARU since 2022 — contributing to forensic science and related discipline teaching while completing her doctoral research.
Race Equality Advocate — Anglia Ruskin University
Working with faculty leads to create a more inclusive academic environment for students of ethnic minorities at ARU — with a focus on sense of belonging and diversification of curriculum across the Faculty of Science and Engineering.
Postgraduate Student Representative — ARU Students' Union
Representing PGR students across the faculty — advocating for researcher wellbeing, community building, and improved support structures for the often-isolated postgraduate research community.