Welcome to the Forensic Chemistry Thematic Group

The Forensic Chemistry Thematic Group was established through a joint initiative of the Analytical Chemistry, Mass Spectrometry, and Medicinal Chemistry Divisions of the Società Chimica Italiana (Italian Chemical Society). The Group brings together members who conduct research, work in the field, and share common scientific interests and objectives.

Objectives and Institutional Mission

The Group aims to serve as a national reference point for promoting, coordinating, and disseminating research and educational activities in forensic chemistry, fostering synergies and integrating multidisciplinary expertise in chemistry.
Its primary focus is to support the development and application of advanced analytical methodologies for the identification, characterization, and interpretation of chemical evidence.
A key priority is to ensure the highest standards of scientific data quality and the harmonization of procedures by promoting close interdisciplinary collaboration among academia, research institutions, forensic laboratories, and public authorities.

Areas of Activity and Research

The Group's activities encompass a wide range of fields in which chemistry plays a crucial role in judicial and investigative proceedings and the protection of public interests:
- Forensic Toxicology: Analysis of illicit drugs and New Psychoactive Substances (NPS), poisons, and pharmaceuticals.
- Forensic Chemistry of Fires and Explosions: Analysis of explosives, gunshot residues (GSR), flammable liquids, and chemical ballistics.
- Environmental and Food Forensics: Monitoring of environmental and food contaminants, detection of fraud, product traceability and authenticity, and environmental toxicology.
- Cultural Heritage Protection: Application of chemical sciences to the preservation, dating, and authentication of cultural heritage objects.
- Innovation and Data Science: Validation of analytical methods and integration of innovative chemometric modelling tools, advanced data analysis, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) techniques.

Why Join the Group?

Joining the Thematic Group means becoming part of a dynamic national network of expertise.
Members have the opportunity to participate in dedicated scientific initiatives, conferences, and training courses. They can also actively contribute to sharing research findings, practical tools, and standardized methodologies, while developing cutting-edge transdisciplinary projects in a field with significant social and institutional impact.