Robert Green, Professor of Forensic Science at Kent’s School of Chemistry and Forensic Science, has been in India visiting partner universities, teaching Indian students, collaborating with industry colleagues and delivering a keynote address at the 15th International Conference of the International Association of Scientists and Researchers in Delhi.
During Professor Green’s visit, Kent will also sign a statement of cooperation between Kent and SGT University, which will present further exciting collaborative opportunities in India.
Professor Green discusses what he has learnt from his trip, Kent’s link with forensic science in India and advancing forensic science in India.
Tell us a bit about your visit?
Over the past two weeks, I have had the pleasure of meeting many remarkable individuals and reconnecting with friends and colleagues from previous encounters. One of the highlights was reuniting with our graduate, Kanika. It was wonderful to see Kanika again and learn about her ongoing achievements at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences.
I also connected with many wonderful conference delegates, particularly Dr Ranjeet Singh, the visionary behind the 15th International Conference of the International Association of Scientists and Researchers, who also runs his own forensic institute in Delhi. I have no doubt that his efforts, along with those of his organisation, are significantly enhancing the focus on forensic sciences and improving the pursuit of justice in India.
My experiences at SGT University have been equally enriching; I have met so many incredible individuals—from the Vice Chancellor and Deans to the wonderfully dedicated academic staff—who have all made me feel welcome and have become lifelong friends. I also forged strong connections at Geeta University and Sharda University, and I am grateful to have made such lasting friendships.
Last weekend, in Lucknow, I had the honour of sharing the platform with the esteemed Mr. Justice Rajeev Singh, who is a justice in the High Court and Dr. G.K. Goswami, the Head of the Uttar Pradesh State Institute of Forensic Sciences. The warmth and humility shown by everyone I have met have made this journey even more meaningful, as they welcomed me into their homes and shared their insights and experiences. Each interaction has deepened my appreciation for the collaborative spirit and commitment to advancing forensic science in India.
What have you learnt from your latest trip to India?
This marks my second extended visit, and my learning process is evolving as I explore various business models and opportunities for fostering partnerships and facilitating student exchanges. Signing the statements of collaboration between Kent and SGT University will represent a significant milestone, showcasing our genuine and tangible engagement with our international partners.
Furthermore, I hope we can raise awareness about the effectiveness of forensic science and its crucial role in enhancing professional policing, as well as supporting legal professionals and the judiciary in India. By promoting a deeper understanding of forensic methodologies and their applications, we can ensure that these tools are effectively utilised to uphold justice.
For instance, implementing comprehensive training programs for police officers on forensic evidence collection can significantly improve the quality of investigations. Additionally, workshops for legal and medical practitioners could focus on how to collect, interpret and present forensic evidence in court, thereby strengthening cases that involve sexual and gender-based violence.
Ultimately, our goal is to empower victims of such violence, enabling them to engage with the legal system more effectively and achieve the justice they deserve. By fostering collaboration among law enforcement, legal professionals, and forensic experts, we can create a comprehensive support system that addresses the needs of victims while enhancing the overall efficacy of the judicial process in India. It rather goes without saying that by engaging with the next generation of bright young minds at SGT and other universities we can sow the seeds for the development of science, the service to victims of crime and the delivery of justice for the people of India.
What do you hope to contribute to Indian forensics?
In addition to expanding and sharing knowledge among the next generation of influencers, we have established connections with the British High Commission in New Delhi and showcased our collaborative efforts with colleagues at the British Council. As part of our ongoing initiatives, we are actively pursuing opportunities to support forensic science training workshops for key stakeholders in law enforcement, the judiciary, and prosecution services later this year. These workshops will aim to enhance the judicial outcomes for victims of rape and sexual assault by equipping professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively utilise forensic evidence in their cases. For example, we plan to focus on best practices for collecting and preserving evidence, as well as understanding the latest advancements in forensic technology.
Building on our previous experiences with workshops in India, we are confident that these upcoming sessions will not only help to improve the understanding of those involved in the judicial process but also foster a greater sense of collaboration among various sectors. By empowering police officers, medical practitioners, support workers, judges, and prosecutors with the right tools and training, we hope to contribute significantly to achieving justice for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence.
How can UK forensics contribute to Indian forensics?
Firstly, the UK has a long-standing reputation for excellence in forensic science research and practice, with well-established understanding and advanced technologies that can significantly enhance forensic investigations
Collaborations with UK forensic scientists provide opportunities for knowledge exchange and capacity building. Indian forensic experts and UK can benefit from training programs, workshops, and seminars, allowing both sides to refine their skills and stay updated on the latest developments in the field. Such interactions can foster a culture of continuous learning and innovation, which is essential for adapting to the evolving challenges in forensic science.
Additionally, these collaborations can lead to joint research initiatives that address specific forensic challenges faced in India, such as improving evidence collection methods or developing new analytical techniques tailored to local contexts. By working together, Indian and UK forensic scientists can create solutions that not only enhance the quality of forensic investigations in India but also contribute to global advancements in the field.
Furthermore, establishing partnerships with UK institutions can facilitate international networking and collaboration opportunities, allowing Indian forensic scientists to engage with a broader community of experts. This global perspective can enhance their work and help promote best practices in forensic science, ultimately leading to improved outcomes in the justice system.
Is there a history of Indian students studying forensics at Kent?
Kent takes pride in its rich history of welcoming both undergraduate and postgraduate students from India to our programs. I think that one of the key factors that set us apart is the exceptional quality of our academic offerings. For the past three years our forensic science program has been consistently top of the Guardian league table. Our forensic science curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the field, combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills. For instance, our state-of-the-art laboratories and hands-on training sessions allow students to engage directly with advanced forensic techniques, such as DNA analysis and ballistics, physical sciences and professional practice as well as the practical experiences and our ethos of demonstrating/learning by doing.
Equally important is the extensive support we provide to our students throughout their academic journey. From personalised academic advising, we make sure (and care) that each student receives the guidance and help they need to succeed. Our staff members are not only experts in their fields but also deeply committed to fostering a nurturing and inclusive learning environment. This level of support helps students navigate the challenges of their studies and prepares them for successful careers in forensic science.
Moreover, the sense of community within our forensic science department extends well beyond graduation. We pride ourselves on cultivating lasting friendships and professional networks among our students and alumni. For example, many of our graduates have gone on to form collaborative research projects or joint initiatives, allowing them to stay connected and continue contributing to the field together. Our alumni events and networking opportunities further strengthen these ties, providing a platform for current students to engage with graduates who are making significant strides in various sectors, including law enforcement, academia, medicine and the public and private forensic laboratories.
Professor Green was also awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award at the IASR International Conference on Forensic Science. On this he said: ‘I was honoured to receive a lifetime achievement award, a recognition that has left me both humbled and reflective. I am of course grateful for the lifetime achievement award but recognise it as a reflection of the collective efforts of many friends and institutions in the forensic science community. My commitment to advancing forensic science, particularly in India, through extensive engagement, knowledge and resource sharing, has shaped my professional journey and perhaps contributed to this honour.