Senior Lecturer in Forensic Science

I joined the School of Life Sciences in November 2015, having completed my PhD with the Forensic Research Centre at Northumbria University.

Prior to this, I worked for the Forensic Science Service (FSS) from 2006, firstly as a DNA Analyst in the Intelligence Crime Stain Unit and subsequently as an Examiner with the Homicide & Violence Team, alongside being trained to assist with cases for the Sexual Offences Team.

During my time with the FSS, I carried out laboratory work across hundreds of investigations, examining crime scene exhibits for trace evidence and body fluids, specialising in blood and DNA profiling techniques. 

Teaching

I am a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and teach on both undergraduate (all levels) and postgraduate courses. I am also the Course Co-ordinator for BSc Forensic Science and BSc Forensic Science and Criminology degrees. 

Qualifications

• PhD in Forensic Genetics, Northumbria University
• MSc in Forensic Science, London South Bank University
• BSc (Hons) in Genetics, University of Wales (Aberystwyth)

Memberships

• Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (Advance HE)
• Affiliate Member of the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences

Research Interests

My research interests are focused on the DNA analysis of difficult forensic samples, especially those which are considered as low-template or degraded – I love a challenge! I am particularly interested in building biological profiles from cold case or ancient sample types, having worked on the human remains discovered at the Vindolanda archaeological site and forensic investigations such as the ‘Blazing Car Murder’. 

Research Publications

• Buck, T., Greene, E., Meyer, A., Barlow, V. and Graham, E., (2019). The body in the ditch: Alternative funerary practices on the Northern Frontier of the Roman Empire? Britannia, 50, pp.203-224.

Contact Details

T: +44 (0)1582 489612
E: vicki.barlow@beds.ac.uk

Other References

• www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-barlow-b2516937