By analysing forensic data across cases, trends and patterns in crime can be identified. This supports policy-making, chain-wide optimization, and prevention. Examples include patterns in drug production or recurring modi operandi.

• Typical forensic questions and potential research ideas:
  • What information about criminal networks can be derived from forensic data?
      Research idea: Apply network and cluster analysis on forensic datasets of drug seizures.
  • How do you connect chemical and digital data in chain-wide research?
      Research idea: Design a data platform that enables integrated analysis of chemical profiles and digital metadata.
  • What are effective ways to strengthen learning processes in the criminal justice chain?
      Research idea: Implement feedback loops in digital reporting systems for police and prosecutors.