Her Work
Niamh Smith is a Lecturer in Forensic and Criminal Investigation at Bath College, United Kingdom. She holds both a BSc and MSc in Forensic Science â an academic foundation that shaped her journey from student to educator, and that continues to inform her research-active approach to teaching.
Her specialist research areas are forensic taphonomy and genetics â two disciplines at the scientific frontier of death investigation and identity determination. Forensic taphonomy â the study of decomposition and post-mortem change â has critical applications in estimating time of death, understanding burial environments, and recovering and interpreting human remains in criminal investigations. Combined with genetics, this expertise positions Niamh at the intersection of biological science and forensic casework.
As a lecturer, Niamh is committed to preparing the next generation of forensic science professionals â bringing specialist research knowledge directly into the classroom and ensuring students engage with the scientific rigour and ethical responsibilities of forensic practice.
Areas of Specialisation
Forensic Taphonomy
The scientific study of decomposition, post-mortem change, and environmental processes affecting human remains â with direct application to death investigation, time-of-death estimation, and recovery of remains in forensic contexts.
Genetics
Forensic genetics â the application of DNA analysis and genetic techniques to criminal investigation, including identity determination, kinship analysis, and the use of genetic evidence in court.
Criminal Investigation
Teaching and research across forensic criminal investigation â crime scene science, evidence handling, investigative methodology, and the role of forensic science in supporting the criminal justice system.
Forensic Education
Lecturer in Forensic and Criminal Investigation at Bath College â educating forensic science students with a research-active, evidence-based approach to curriculum and teaching.