Forensic scientists play a crucial role bringing criminals to justice and now the programme that gives viewers unique access to their work is back for a second series.
Forensics: The Real CSI is co-produced by The Open University and the BBC and the series continues with Episode 4 Fatal Weapon Unknown on Tuesday 6th July at 9pm on BBC 2.
This episode focuses on a complex crime scene resulting in two deaths in Dudley, where mysterious puncture wounds have been found on the bodies.
A detailed forensic investigation is mounted to piece together a full picture of how and why the men were killed, what the murder weapon was, and who is responsible.
Dr Jim Turner, Senior Lecturer in Forensic Psychology at the OU, who provided academic consultancy for both series, says these programmes show what real CSI is like:
“The first series of Forensics gave a ground-breaking behind-the-scenes, and behind-the-hype, view of real forensic science in action. Series two continues to give excellent insights into criminal investigations, from the crime scenes through to the laboratories and the police interview rooms, including the mindset that forensic scientists and investigators need to do their work. As well as learning about the science and technology, we get a real sense of the teamwork involved, with specialists in various types of physical evidence, digital forensics, and police investigative techniques all working together to solve cases.”
Dr Claire Kotecki, Lecturer at the Faculty of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, at the OU, was also part of the team that advised the show’s producers, she says anyone thinking about a career in forensics should definitely watch the series:
“Forensics: The Real CSI does an excellent job lifting the lid on the real science that underpins criminal investigations in the UK. It provides a compelling look at the people and techniques that support police investigations and has the potential to inspire the next generation of investigators. Working on this as an OU co-production brings together academic and educational expertise, cutting edge broadcasting and the often-unseen individuals who we rely on to help solve some of the UK’s most challenging crimes.”
OU Academics Making a Difference
Series producer, Natalie Maynes, says having access to The Open University’s academic experts was a real boost making the programme:
“From the earliest stages, right through to the honing of the final programmes, working with The Open University has been a real benefit to the project. There’s an immediate acknowledgement that this is a partnership that brings with it a real sense of academic rigour, as well as a desire to educate and inform. Their specialist scientific advice on the complicated and often cutting-edge scientific techniques has been invaluable.”
Learn more about the series and watch exclusive interviews with forensic investigators on our dedicated OpenLearn pages.
All episodes will be available on the BBC iPlayer.
Commissioned by, Caroline Ogilvie, Head of Broadcast & Partnerships
Broadcast Project Manager, Clair Robinson
Digital Content Producer, Alison Tang
Media Fellows, Dr Alison Penn (FASS) and Dr Julia Cooke as the Media Fellow (STEM)
Academic Consultants, Dr Jim Turner (FASS) and Dr Claire Kotecki (STEM)
Main Qualification Pathways:
FASS
F73 MSc in Forensic Psychological Studies, Q82 BSc (Hons) Forensic Psychology
STEM
