Forensic Medicine & Imaging

Our research combines state-of-the-art technologies with forensic medical expertise. We focus on developing innovative and scientifically robust methods for the objective analysis, reconstruction, and visualization of forensic findings, with the aim of continuously advancing diagnostics, evidence evaluation, and the scientific foundations of forensic medicine.

Forensic Imaging

Forensic imaging represents a central focus of our research activities. We develop and evaluate non-invasive and minimally invasive diagnostic approaches based on CT, MRI, and contrast-enhanced imaging techniques. Our aim is to establish standardized, reproducible, and scientifically validated workflows for routine forensic practice while advancing virtual and minimally invasive diagnostics.

3D Reconstruction and Forensic Visualization

At the Zurich 3D Center, we develop innovative methods for high-resolution three-dimensional documentation of forensic findings. Using photogrammetry, advanced reconstruction algorithms, and immersive visualization technologies, we create realistic 3D models of injuries, traces, and autopsy findings. Our work ranges from standardized acquisition protocols to virtual reality applications for scientific, legal, and educational purposes.

Objective Forensic Evidence, Comparative Analysis and Wound Ballistics

Another major focus lies in the development of objective and reproducible methods for the analysis of forensic traces, injury patterns, and the reconstruction of firearm-related events. In collaboration with interdisciplinary partners, we investigate toolmarks, biomechanical relationships, and data-driven approaches to comparative analysis. Advanced measurement technologies, experimental models, and computer-assisted methods are intended to enable increasingly quantitative and observer-independent evaluation of forensic findings. In the field of wound ballistics, we develop standardized experimental approaches, validate biologically relevant simulants, and establish reproducible conditions for analyzing projectile effects, injury mechanisms, and protective equipment.

Translational Reconstruction and Violence Research

Our research combines experimental models, biomechanical analyses, and forensic casework to scientifically reconstruct complex violent events. Particular emphasis is placed on injury mechanisms, trace transfer, and biomechanical loading conditions. The goal is to develop scientifically robust foundations for the interpretation and reconstruction of forensically relevant events.

Clinical Forensic Medicine and Societal Impact

Clinical forensic medicine investigates the consequences of violence in living individuals as well as questions at the interface of medicine, law, and society. Research focuses include patterns of violence and injury, the scientific evaluation of low-threshold support services, and the improvement of prevention, healthcare, and victim protection. Our work also contributes to a better understanding of societal violence phenomena and vulnerable populations.

Forensic Anthropology

Forensic anthropology focuses on the identification and analysis of human skeletal remains, particularly in cases involving fragmented or severely degraded bone material. To this end, we combine imaging, microscopic, histological, and molecular genetic techniques within multimodal analytical approaches. Our aim is to develop scientifically robust methods for reliable identification and comprehensive forensic evaluation.