Read our REF2021 impact case study here: Ensuring robust and flexible protections against the use of biometric data.

Aaron is an Assistant Professor of Forensic Biology and Forensic Science Policy with expertise in body fluids, DNA, DNA Databases & Biometrics. Aaron has an academic background in biochemistry and forensic biology, with research and teaching experience in forensic biology, DNA profiling and forensic DNA legislation/ policy. Aaron's academic portfolio includes leadership of the MSc Forensic Science programme at Northumbria University, Quality Lead for CSFS accreditation of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, module leadership and teaching in forensic biology, genetics and police investigations.

Through his research and policy work, Aaron has contributed oral and written evidence and reviewed policy reports on forensic biometrics for several groups and agencies including the Scottish Independent Advisory Group on Biometrics, Forensic Genetics Policy Initiative, the Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology, the Office of the Biometrics Commissioner and the New Zealand Law Commission.

Aaron's current research in forensic science policy is focused on developing flexible and research-informed legislative frameworks and policies for the use of forensic DNA in African countries and the use of genetic genealogy databases. His research in forensic biology focuses primarily on tests for detection of body fluids and persistence of body fluids. Aaron has also worked on Northumbria Police commissioned evaluations on out-of-court disposals.

Aaron holds a BSc in Biochemistry (2013) from KNUST, Ghana; an MSc in Forensic Science (2015) from the University of Strathclyde, Glasgow (funded by the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship); and a PhD in Forensic DNA databases (2019) from Northumbria University (funded by Northumbria Research Studentship). Aaron is a Member of the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences (CSFS) and a Fellow of AdvanceHE.

Aaron's research is multi- and inter-disciplinary, spanning forensic science, law, and policing, with a clear policy-impact focus. His primary research covers the following key themes:

1. Regulation of forensic DNA & biometric databases;
2. Persistence of body fluids;
3. Development of online tools for teaching forensic science practical techniques (Forensic vLabs);
4. Development and evaluation of crime reduction initiatives and tools.

Inquiries are welcome on self-funded PhD projects on the above research themes. International students and professionals who are interested in pursuing postgraduate studies in Forensic Science at Northumbria University may apply for the following scholarships/fellowships if they are eligible.

PhD

Commonwealth PhD Scholarships (for least developed countries and fragile states) (3 Years PhD)

Commonwealth Split-site Scholarships (for low and middle-income countries) (12 Months Research as part of a PhD in home country)

Masters

Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships (12 Months Masters)

Chevening Scholarships (12 Months Masters)