Forensic science is a field that blends scientific principles with criminal investigation. This science is referred to as the backbone of the justice system. It involves applying various scientific techniques to examine physical evidence and support legal proceedings. There are many pioneers who have contributed to the evolution of this field. But there is one name that stands out as the father of forensic science. This person had set up the foundation for modern investigative methods used across the world today. We will discuss the father of forensic science more as we move forward in this blog.

As the demand for skilled forensic experts continues to rise, many students wonder, “Is forensic science a good career in India?” The answer is a definite yes. 

This guide will give you more insights into forensic science. Here, you will learn its meaning, branches, career options, etc. 

Quick Glance At the Blog

Below is a concise, tabular overview that summarises the complete information on Forensic Science in a structured and easy-to-read format. In short, it is a summarised version of the information provided in the blog.

What is Forensic Science?

Forensic science is a collection of scientific techniques and knowledge used to look into crimes or analyse evidence that might be used in court. Any criminal justice system heavily relies on forensic science. In order to solve crimes, particularly long-unsolved ones, forensic science can be helpful for investigators. It assists them in gathering, quickly analysing, and interpreting complicated evidence. Additionally, it can also assist in clearing innocent persons of false convictions or excluding them from investigations. Finally, it can assist jurors in making judgements that have a significant impact on the lives of those who are accused of crimes.

Also Read: A Guide on Dual Degree (BSc & MSc) Forensic Science program

Who is Known as the Father of Forensic Science?

A lot of individuals have made contributions to the field of forensic science, as was previously indicated. However, Dr Edmond Locard is a name that really stands out and is regarded as the father of forensic science. 

French criminologist Dr Edmond Locard is also known as the “Sherlock Holmes of France”. He was born in Saint-Chamond on December 13, 1877. By combining scientific, legal, and medical concepts, Locard revolutionised criminal investigations. He became well-known in the annals of forensic science. His groundbreaking works include the establishment of the first crime lab and the creation of Locard’s Exchange Principle. His works continue to have an impact on forensic practices worldwide. Due to this reason, he is considered the “father of modern forensic science”.

Below are some of those individuals who have contributed to the field of forensic science:

• Father of Forensic Toxicology – Mathieu Orfila: Introduced chemical analysis for detecting poisons in human organs.
• Father of Forensic Ballistics – Calvin Goddard: Developed systematic firearm and bullet comparison methods.
• Father of Fingerprint Analysis – Sir Francis Galton: First to classify fingerprints scientifically.
• Father of DNA Fingerprinting – Sir Alec Jeffreys: Discovered DNA profiling in 1984. Revolutionised identification in crime investigation. 

Branches of Forensic Science

Below are some of the major branches of forensic science: 

Forensic Anthropology

Skeletal remains, skeletonised corpses, and bones are the focus of forensic anthropology. Using scientific methods, forensic scientists assist in the investigation of the crime. They determine the approximate time of death by examining the bones of both people and animals.

Forensic anthropology assists in the identification of deceased people by reconstructing their faces when their bodies are rendered unrecognisable by fire, mutilations, or natural deterioration. These specialists ascertain the cause of death, height, age, and gender. It’s interesting to note that they may also ascertain if the physical harm occurred before or during the death.

Forensic Engineering

When machines are involved in a case, forensic engineering can aid with the investigation. The specialists investigate and pinpoint the equipment malfunction that resulted in fatalities or serious injuries. It entails analysing structural and mechanical failures, which aids in determining who is accountable for the losses that have taken place.

Forensic Odontology

It is a branch of forensic science that applies dental knowledge to legal and investigative purposes. It involves the examination, handling, and presentation of dental evidence to help identify human remains. It is useful in those cases where visual identification is impossible. Key applications include mass disaster victim identification, estimating the age of an individual, etc.

Forensic Pathology

As the name implies, forensic pathology is the study of science in conjunction with pathology labs. Providing an accurate analysis of the corpse, it aids in determining the cause of death. These individuals are able to identify the murder weapon. They investigate the victims’ medical histories, conduct autopsies where necessary, and review the evidence gathered from the crime scene.

Toxicology

This course teaches students about the effects of hazardous substances on people, animals, and the environment. They investigate the role of any harmful material in the mystery of the crime. Determining whether a death is the result of an overdose or a planned murder can occasionally be quite challenging. In these situations, toxicology assists in determining the cause of death by looking at the deceased’s blood, urine, meals, and drinks before passing.

Forensic DNA Fingerprinting

One of the most significant areas of forensic research is forensic DNA fingerprinting. Studying the biological evidence in instances is part of it. DNA fingerprinting is used, for instance, to settle instances involving unanimity of identity, parentage testing, identifying the deceased or missing, sexual assault, decaying bodies, and skeletal remains. Since no two persons have identical fingerprints, fingerprints are the most trustworthy type of evidence and are used to identify.

Forensic Ballistics

The investigation of evidence pertaining to firearms and ammunition is the focus of forensic ballistics. This evidence consists of items such as pistols, bullets, revolvers, rifles, primers, pellets, etc. The specialists determine the weapon that was used in the crime, as well as its distance from the scene, shooting angle, and velocity. In the end, they also identify the shooter.

Forensic Psychology

Forensic psychology is the use of science and psychology for the resolution of criminal and civil cases. By researching crimes and offenders, experts help the police with criminal profiling. By questioning and counselling those involved in criminal activity, they are able to draw conclusions about the criminal’s personality. Forensic psychologists administer a variety of psychological and psychometric examinations, including brain mapping, narcoanalysis, and polygraph exams.

Forensic Accounting

Offences encompass a variety of harms, not just those that result in bodily injury to an individual. When financial and accounting crimes are involved, forensic accountants assist the investigating officials. These offences may be carried out within a business, financial institution, or other such organisation. Many business organisations have created a distinct position for this purpose and are compensating them adequately as a result of the increase in such occurrences.

Forensic Podiatry

Its main focus is on disorders and anomalies of the lower limb, musculoskeletal system, and ankle and foot. Criminals generally operate so cunningly that they attempt to remove evidence from the scene, and they are somewhat successful in doing so. In several cases, the specialists uncover foot-based evidence and utilise it to solve the crimes.

Forensic Chemistry

Forensic chemistry is used to analyse instances involving chemicals and chemical reactions. It handles all types of adulterations and looks at the facts to draw conclusions about the case. Food, alcohol, fuel, explosives, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, carbonated drinks, packed juices, and medicines are among the adulterations it deals with. In addition, it looks at the adulteration of substances and chemicals such as RDX, PETN, HMX, nitroglycerine, nitrocellulose, sulphur oxides, fuses, cordite sticks, etc.

Forensic Geology

Oil, petroleum, minerals, natural gases, soil, rocks, and other earthly things are among the items that are covered in forensic geology. In order to respond to the enquiries posed by the legal system, the specialists examine these materials that were seized from the suspect, victim, or crime scene.

Forensic Botany

The study and examination of plant-based evidence, such as leaves, flowers, wood, fruits, pollen, and seeds, is the focus of the field of forensic botany. Although this branch seems to be underutilised, it is effective in investigating both criminal and non-criminal matters. In the past, detectives have used botany to establish connections to the suspect and determine the method and time of death.

Forensic Physics

Forensic Physics is the area of forensics that deals with tangible evidence. This branch covers tangible evidence such as fibres, glass, cement, tool marks, paint, etc. 

Forensic Science Courses At KRMU!

With many universities offering forensic science programmes across India, students often look for institutions that provide strong academic exposure, experienced faculty, and industry relevance. K.R. Mangalam University, located in Gurugram, is among the reputed institutions offering quality forensic science education with a modern curriculum and practical learning approach, making it a preferred choice in the Delhi NCR region.

Why Study Forensic Science at KRMU?

KRMU provides state-of-the-art forensic science programs that are intended to equip students for careers in crime investigation and research. It guarantees that students study utilising cutting-edge forensic methods and technology through its sophisticated labs, industrial partnerships, knowledgeable teachers, and practical training. Students are additionally assisted in developing prosperous careers in this developing subject by the university’s robust placement assistance. 

Is Forensic Science a Good Career in India?

Key reasons why is forensic science a good career in this country:

• Rising Demand: Increasing complex crimes and digital evidence. All of this means a rising demand for forensic experts in the government and private sectors.
• Impactful & Satisfying Work: Professionals directly help solve crimes, bring criminals to justice, and contribute to the legal system. Obviously, all of this offers high job satisfaction.
• Diverse Specialisations: The field covers toxicology, ballistics, digital forensics (cybercrime), DNA analysis, etc. All of this will allow graduates to find a niche.
• Technological Advancement: Access to advanced tools and techniques in labs, especially with growing cyber forensics needs, makes it a modern, exciting field.
• Strong Career Growth: Opportunities for advancement and specialisation are excellent, with a clear path in both government (labs, police) and private firms.
• Good Earning Potential: With experience and specialisation, forensic professionals can earn competitive salaries, with good entry-level prospects too.
• Skill Development: Develops critical analytical thinking, problem-solving, lab techniques, and court presentation skills

Top Career Opportunities in Forensic Science

Below are the top career opportunities in forensic science:

Pathologists

One field that pathologists may choose to focus on is medical forensics. These professionals are responsible for conducting autopsies on dead bodies to determine the cause of death. They might evaluate autopsy findings and support the investigation of crimes such as homicides. Forensic pathology is a specialisation that needs residency training within a medical programme.

Forensic Science Technicians

When helping with crime scene investigations, forensic science professionals are primarily responsible for gathering and analysing evidence. They could snap photos and write down evidence from crime scenes. The most common employers of these specialists are police departments, crime labs, and medical examination offices. 

Forensic Scientists

Forensic scientists are in charge of locating, examining, and testing evidence pertaining to criminal cases and civil lawsuits. They could be employed internally or under contract by government organisations. They can also collaborate with private organisations and provide their clients with consultancy services. They may even invent new techniques and procedures that may be used in the field, and their work is essential to the advancement of forensic science as a discipline.

Forensic Analysts

Usually, forensic analysts support the legal and investigative processes related to cybercrimes. In order to get information on criminal or civil matters, they collaborate with cyber police officers or operate within the police force’s cyber cell. For instance, the cyber police could need a forensic analyst to compile phone logs or triangulate suspect positions at a certain moment in time. As forensic analysis is becoming an essential component of many investigative procedures, the demand for qualified analysts is increasing.

Forensic Investigators

Investigating evidence discovered at a crime scene is the responsibility of forensic investigators. They gather samples, evaluate evidence in a lab, and take pictures of the crime scene. The specifics of the crime are then inferred from the evidence by them.

Conclusion

In this blog, we have learnt what forensic science is. This science has evolved through the contributions of many brilliant minds. But Dr Edmond Locard is considered the father of forensic science. He is one of the most influential pioneers whose principles still guide modern investigations. Today, the field has expanded into multiple specialised branches. Each branch is playing a vital role in solving crimes, ensuring justice, and strengthening the legal system. With growing demand for skilled forensic experts in India, this domain offers a rewarding and impactful career path for science-driven students.

For those aspiring to build a strong foundation in this field, KRMU provides industry-oriented forensic science programmes, modern laboratories, expert faculty, and practical training.

Also Read: All India Forensic Science Entrance Test (AIFSET-2026) Details and Eligibility