Understanding gait analysis in a forensic science context

The direct comparison of two of more video recordings to establish whether individuals within those recordings are the same or different based on their gait alone forms the basis of forensic gait analysis. The underpinning scientific evidence for such comparisons is very limited and studies which have been carried out are sparse and in some cases questionable. This was highlighted in the recent judicial primer on forensic gait analysis published by the Royal Society and Royal Society of Edinburgh. The judicial primer is a guidance document for use by the judiciary when assessing the admissibility of evidence on the basis of the accepted and known scientific position relating to that evidence and acts as a signpost for research gaps. The proposed PhD project will be breaking new ground within this area of biometrics and provide a foundational scientific basis for the use of this evidence type in criminal investigations. The successful candidate will be working with leading researchers at the Centre for Anatomy and Human Identification (CAHID) and the Institute of Motion Analysis and Research (IMAR) at the Medical School as well as with other professionals and practitioners as required. The research questions to be addressed may include;

1. Understanding and quantifying the common characteristics of gait using existing databases.
2. Exploring the development of a ground truth database of gait of the same and different individuals in different circumstances (for example changes in footwear, carrying a load etc).
3. Assessing the current state of the art in image capture as it relates to the analysis of gait within criminal investigations.
4. Developing objective models for the interpretation of gait within the forensic context
5. Interpreting accuracy in the identification of people using gait analysis.

An essential part of the remit of the Greenhouse Research Studentships Programme is that successful applicants are required to teach within the dissecting room throughout semesters 1 and 2 and to assist with other classes as and when required.

Eligibility:

Candidates MUST have an undergraduate or Master degree which includes experience in full body gross anatomical human dissection.

We invite applications from suitably qualified candidates.

Candidates are requested
(i) to submit their full CV,
(ii) to indicate which of the projects they wish to apply for and
(iii) to provide a one page A4 summary of their suggestions for developing their research project choice.

Applications should reach Dr. Craig McKenzie ([Email Address Removed]) by midnight on the 10th of July.

Shortlisted applicants will be called for interview in late July 2018.