Forensic entomology is a branch of forensic science that uses insect evidence to solve crimes in legal investigations. The applications of forensic entomology include: estimating time of death of a victim, determining if a body has been moved and determining the presence and time of the infliction of wounds on victims. While it is primarily associated with death investigations, it may also be used to detect drugs and poisons and to determine the location of an incident.

The Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science & Technology has introduced a Master’s degree programme in Forensic entomology which is a new discipline in Jamaica. Postgraduate students like Latoya Foote (left) and Taniesha Barrett are engaged in a project to identify forensic insect groups and their potential use in criminal investigations in Jamaica.

Graduates of this programme may be employed as crime scene technicians and homicide investigators as well as in other fields involved in the death investigation process. Persons interested in the programme should contact the Office of Graduate Studies & Research www.mona.uwi.edu/postgrad/  or email: postgrad@uwimona.edu.jm.