Her Work
Anjaly Lal is a forensic chemist and NTU Excellence Scholar completing an MSc in Forensic Science at Nottingham Trent University, United Kingdom. She holds a BSc in Forensic Science (Chemistry and Analytical Pathways) from Lovely Professional University, India, where she graduated with a strong 8.10 CGPA.
Her current MSc research applies Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) with acid-assisted microwave digestion to analyse strontium isotope signals across distinct bone layers — a cutting-edge forensic application with significant implications for provenance determination, migration analysis, and unidentified remains investigation. This technically demanding research reflects her deep expertise in complex sample preparation, trace chemical analysis, and high-sensitivity instrumentation under compliance frameworks including UKAS ISO 17025.
Beyond the laboratory, Anjaly has participated in a forensic bioarchaeology field operation at NTU's Clifton Campus — serving as a Recovery Team Member in a simulated investigation involving clandestine mass graves. Her team conducted systematic grid searches, stratigraphic excavation, and 3D total station mapping, successfully recovering remains and ballistic evidence while maintaining rigorous chain-of-custody documentation. She has also served as a Forensic Expert Witness in a Moot Court toxicology assessment — presenting scientific testimony and responding to cross-examination in a simulated legal setting.
Areas of Specialisation
Analytical Chemistry & ICP-MS
Advanced expertise in ICP-MS, acid-assisted microwave digestion, UV/Vis spectroscopy, IR spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, and microscopy — applied to trace chemical analysis in forensic contexts under ISO 17025 compliance frameworks.
Isotope Analysis & Bioarchaeology
Current MSc research analysing strontium isotope signals in bone layers using ICP-MS — with field experience in clandestine grave recovery, stratigraphic excavation, and forensic bioarchaeology operations.
Forensic Toxicology & Drug Analysis
Strong foundation in forensic toxicology and drug analysis — including expert witness testimony in a simulated Moot Court toxicology case, and academic study of palytoxin forensic significance and detection methodology.
Forensic Biology & Police Internship
Hands-on internship at the Kerala Police Commissioner's Office — fingerprint pattern development, comparison, and identification; forensic photography on real cases; and practical application of forensic biology across investigative contexts.
Key Achievements
NTU Excellence Scholarship
Recipient of the Nottingham Trent University Excellence Scholarship — awarded in recognition of outstanding academic performance and professional potential within the forensic science programme.
Strontium Isotope Research — ICP-MS
MSc research using ICP-MS and acid-assisted microwave digestion to analyse strontium isotope signals across distinct bone layers — a forensically significant methodology for provenance determination, migration analysis, and identification of unidentified remains.
Forensic Bioarchaeology Field Operation
Recovery Team Member in a clandestine mass grave investigation at NTU Clifton Campus — systematic grid search, stratigraphic excavation, 3D total station mapping, and recovery of three individuals with ballistic evidence under strict chain-of-custody protocols.
Expert Witness — Moot Court Toxicology
Served as Forensic Expert Witness in a Moot Court toxicology assessment at NTU — presenting scientific findings in a legal setting, maintaining objectivity under cross-examination, and demonstrating the role of forensic science in supporting the justice system.