Welcome to ChemCrimLab
At ChemCrimLab, we are dedicated to advancing the science of forensic chemistry and its applications in crime investigation, national security, and public safety. Founded by Dr John Coumbaros as a Forensic Chemistry Education and Research Hub at Murdoch University, ChemCrimLab stands at the forefront of multidisciplinary research, education and consulting in forensic science.
Our Mission
Our mission is clear: to push the boundaries of forensic chemistry through excellence in research, education, and collaboration. We strive to uncover the truth, solve complex challenges, and make a positive impact on society through scientific inquiry and innovation.
Overview
ChemCrimLab leverages laboratory and analytical facilities within Murdoch University’s School of Medical, Molecular and Forensic Sciences, and has established research and teaching partnerships with the School of Mathematics, Statistics, Chemistry and Physics and the School of Law and Criminology.
Our laboratories provide a dynamic environment for conducting research, experimentation, and analysis in forensic chemistry. Whether we’re exploring the profiling of illicit drug samples, detecting drugs in drug-facilitated sexual assaults, or enhancing the evidential value of trace evidence, our research addresses pressing issues in crime detection, law enforcement, and public health.
Dr John Coumbaros
We are proud of our collaborative partnerships with leading academic institutions, government agencies, industry partners, and international organizations. These partnerships drive innovation, facilitate knowledge exchange, and enhance the impact of our research on a national and global scale.”
Expertise and Research Areas
Our expertise spans a wide range of forensic chemistry domains. Our team of experts is dedicated to producing cutting-edge research and advancing forensic science knowledge. We tackle diverse forensic chemistry disciplines, including:
Traditional chemical trace evidence - paint, glass, fibres, etc.
Illicit drugs
Toxicology
Explosives and CBRN
Chemistry of fingerprint development and enhancement
Environmental and food forensics
Personal-care product investigations.
Commitment to Education
Education and outreach are central to ChemCrimLab's mission. We are dedicated to educating the next generation of forensic scientists, fostering scientific literacy, critical thinking and problem solving, and engaging with the community.
Dr John Coumbaros brings over 20-years experience in forensic science gained across numerous Australian jurisdictions, including working with the National Institute of Forensic Science, Australian Federal Police, and Department of Defence. With his experience he is perfectly placed as Academic Chair of Murdoch University’s undergraduate forensic courses, namely:
Bachelor of Science - Forensic Biology and Toxicology; and
Bachelor of Science - Forensic Chemistry
He also teaches into the Master of Forensics Science, where he is unit coordinator and lecturer of the units Chemical Criminalistics and Fingerprint Analysis.
Our consulting services cover a wide range of areas, including chemical analysis, forensic interpretation, expert testimony, case review, and policy development. Whether you are a law enforcement agency, legal firm, government organization, we are committed to delivering reliable, evidence-based solutions to support your investigative and analytical needs.
Partner with ChemCrimLab for trusted consulting services that drive results and enhance your capabilities in forensic science and criminal justice.
Consulting
Leveraging our expertise and cutting-edge research, we provide tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of our clients.
Contact Us
For enquiries, collaborations, or more information about ChemCrimLab, please feel free to contact us