Novel Chemical Methods for Estimating Time Since Death

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The study of decomposition chemistry is a new area of research in forensic science which investigates the chemical degradation processes that occur in the body as decomposition proceeds over time. Research in this area requires an interdisciplinary approach focusing on analytical chemistry, biological systems, soil chemistry, and environmental parameters. The aim of the research program is to investigate the unique chemical changes which occur during the decomposition of soft tissue in terrestrial environments. The biochemical degradation of the body involves the disintegration of cells and the release of degraded by-products to the surrounding environment. Analysis of lipid degradation pathways using chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques has the potential to demonstrate biochemical signatures which are modified by time and the influence of environmental parameters. These pathways have only recently been investigated and our preliminary research has demonstrated cyclic patterns of lipid degradation in soft tissue and the release of organic markers into the surrounding environment which may be correlated with the postmortem period. The major application of the research is in the rapidly growing field of forensic science. One of the most important determinants to arise in a forensic investigation is the accurate determination of time since death. Although decomposed remains are often discovered in outdoor environments, current methods for estimating this interval are unable to accurately predict the influence of environmental variables on the decomposition process, thus providing inaccurate estimations. The development of a chemical method that accounts for environmental variables will provide a novel technique and greatly enhance the accuracy of such estimations by forensic pathologists. This leading-edge research will considerably expand the minimal knowledge base relating to decomposition chemistry and will develop HQP with highly desirable skills who will promote the research excellence of Canada as sought-after members of the global forensic community.