Australian Journal of Forensic Sciences

Scope & Guideline

Innovating the Future of Forensic Science Research

Introduction

Welcome to the Australian Journal of Forensic Sciences information hub, where our guidelines provide a wealth of knowledge about the journal’s focus and academic contributions. This page includes an extensive look at the aims and scope of Australian Journal of Forensic Sciences, highlighting trending and emerging areas of study. We also examine declining topics to offer insight into academic interest shifts. Our curated list of highly cited topics and recent publications is part of our effort to guide scholars, using these guidelines to stay ahead in their research endeavors.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN0045-0618
PublisherTAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited Kingdom
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 1968 to 2024
AbbreviationAUST J FORENSIC SCI / Aust. J. Forensic Sci.
Frequency6 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
Address2-4 PARK SQUARE, MILTON PARK, ABINGDON OR14 4RN, OXON, ENGLAND

Aims and Scopes

The Australian Journal of Forensic Sciences focuses on advancing the field of forensic science through rigorous research and innovative methodologies. It serves as a platform for disseminating findings that improve forensic practices and enhance the understanding of forensic issues relevant to the justice system.
  1. Forensic Methodologies and Techniques:
    The journal emphasizes research on new and improved forensic methodologies, including DNA analysis, fingerprint detection, and imaging techniques, which are critical for accurate forensic investigations.
  2. Application of Forensic Science in Legal Contexts:
    A consistent focus is placed on how forensic science impacts the legal system, with studies exploring the reliability of forensic evidence in court proceedings and its role in criminal investigations.
  3. Interdisciplinary Research:
    The journal encourages interdisciplinary approaches, integrating knowledge from fields such as biology, chemistry, and digital forensics to enhance the scientific basis of forensic practices.
  4. Population-Specific Studies:
    Research addressing forensic characteristics within specific populations is highlighted, contributing to the development of localized forensic standards and practices.
  5. Ethical and Social Implications of Forensic Science:
    The journal also addresses the ethical considerations and societal impacts of forensic practices, ensuring a holistic view of the discipline.
The Australian Journal of Forensic Sciences has identified several emerging themes and trends that reflect the evolving landscape of forensic science. These trends indicate a shift towards integrating technology and advanced analytical methods while addressing contemporary forensic challenges.
  1. Digital Forensics and Cybersecurity:
    A notable trend is the increasing focus on digital forensics, including the analysis of digital devices and data, which is becoming crucial as crime increasingly involves technology.
  2. Machine Learning and AI Applications:
    The integration of machine learning and artificial intelligence in forensic analysis is gaining prominence, showcasing innovative approaches to data interpretation and evidence analysis.
  3. Environmental Forensics:
    Research addressing the intersection of forensic science and environmental issues, such as the effects of pollutants on forensic evidence and the use of ecological indicators in investigations, is emerging as a significant area of interest.
  4. Forensic Genetics and Ancestry:
    An increasing number of studies focus on forensic genetics, particularly in relation to ancestry determination and the application of genetic data in forensic contexts, highlighting the relevance of genetic diversity in forensic identification.
  5. Sustainability in Forensic Practices:
    There is a growing interest in sustainable practices within forensic science, including the development of eco-friendly materials and methods, reflecting a broader societal focus on environmental responsibility.

Declining or Waning

While the Australian Journal of Forensic Sciences has consistently evolved, certain themes have shown a noticeable decline in prominence. This may reflect shifts in research focus or the maturation of specific forensic methodologies that have stabilized.
  1. Traditional Forensic Anthropology:
    Research specifically focused on traditional forensic anthropology methods has waned, possibly due to the rise of more advanced imaging and analytical techniques which provide more precise results.
  2. Basic DNA Profiling Techniques:
    There is a decline in studies centered on basic DNA profiling methods, as the field has moved towards more complex and innovative approaches, such as next-generation sequencing and bioinformatics.
  3. Generalized Forensic Science Reviews:
    The frequency of generic review articles summarizing forensic science practices has decreased, indicating a shift towards more specialized, detailed studies that address specific forensic challenges.
  4. Localized Case Studies:
    The journal has seen a reduction in case studies that do not incorporate broader forensic principles or methodologies, suggesting a move towards integrating findings with broader implications for forensic science.

Similar Journals

BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES & THE LAW

Unraveling the Complex Ties Between Behavior and Law
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 0735-3936Frequency: 6 issues/year

Behavioral Sciences & The Law is a premier interdisciplinary journal published by Wiley, dedicated to exploring the intricate relationships between behavioral sciences and legal systems. Established in 1983 and continuing through 2024, this journal provides a vital platform for researchers, professionals, and students in the fields of law, clinical psychology, medicine, and psychiatry. With an impressive impact factor reflected in its Q1 ranking in Law and Q3 in Clinical Psychology, Psychiatry, and Medicine, it stands out in the academic community, facilitating scholarly discourse and advancing understanding in these critical areas. While currently not following an open access model, the journal’s reach is extensive, delivering cutting-edge research and thought leadership from the United Kingdom to a global audience. Whether you are investigating the psychological dimensions of legal practice or the implications of law on behavioral health, Behavioral Sciences & The Law remains an essential resource for those committed to the intersection of these disciplines.

International Journal of Digital Crime and Forensics

Connecting Scholars to Combat Digital Crime
Publisher: IGI GLOBALISSN: 1941-6210Frequency: 4 issues/year

Welcome to the International Journal of Digital Crime and Forensics, an esteemed publication spearheaded by IGI Global, dedicated to advancing research and disseminating knowledge in the crucial fields of cybersecurity, digital crime, and forensic analysis. With its inaugural issue published in 2009, this journal has continually focused on providing a platform for innovative research, insightful case studies, and practical solutions aimed at addressing contemporary challenges in digital criminal activity and forensic investigation. While currently classified in the Q4 Category for software within the Computer Science domain according to 2023 rankings, and positioned in the 32nd percentile of Scopus Ranks, the journal remains committed to enhancing its impact and visibility in the scholarly community. By maintaining a rigorous peer-review process, the journal ensures high-quality contributions that equip researchers, professionals, and students with essential tools and knowledge. Although the journal operates under a subscription model, it plays an integral role in shaping the discourse surrounding digital crime and forensics, making it an indispensable resource for anyone serious about understanding and combating digital threats.

MEDICINE SCIENCE AND THE LAW

Navigating the Nexus of Health and Justice
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS INCISSN: 0025-8024Frequency: 4 issues/year

MEDICINE SCIENCE AND THE LAW is a prestigious journal published by SAGE PUBLICATIONS INC, focused on the intersection of law, health policy, and ethical issues as they pertain to medicine. With a long-standing history dating back to 1960, this journal has become a crucial platform for scholars and professionals alike to share and disseminate research that shapes the evolving legal landscape surrounding health care practices. It holds notable positions in the academic community, ranking in the Q3 category for Health Policy and Issues, Ethics and Legal Aspects, and achieving a distinguished Q1 ranking in Law as of 2023. With rigorous peer-review standards and a commitment to publishing high-quality research, MEDICINE SCIENCE AND THE LAW is invaluable for those exploring the critical legal challenges and ethical dilemmas faced within the healthcare sector. Research contributions are vital for informing policy and practice, ensuring that the journal remains a relevant and essential resource for researchers, practitioners, and students dedicated to the intersection of law and medicine.

Journal of Forensic Psychology Research and Practice

Connecting Empirical Research with Practical Solutions.
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 2473-2850Frequency: 5 issues/year

Journal of Forensic Psychology Research and Practice is a distinguished publication within the fields of Applied Psychology and Pathology and Forensic Medicine, published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd. With a commitment to advancing knowledge from 2017 to 2024, this journal aims to bridge theory and practice by showcasing empirical research, including case studies and innovative methodologies, that address the complexities of forensic psychology in contemporary settings. While it holds a respectable Q3 ranking in both Applied Psychology and Pathology and Forensic Medicine, making it a vital resource for scholars and practitioners alike, its insights contribute significantly to understanding the psychological aspects of criminal behavior and legal processes. Researchers, professionals, and students are encouraged to engage with its content to further their understanding and application of forensic psychology principles in real-world scenarios.

Forensic Science Medicine and Pathology

Unveiling New Discoveries in Forensic Medicine and Pathology
Publisher: HUMANA PRESS INCISSN: 1547-769XFrequency: 4 issues/year

Forensic Science Medicine and Pathology is an esteemed journal published by HUMANA PRESS INC, focusing on the critical intersections of forensic science, medicine, and pathology. Since its inception in 2005, this journal has provided a vital platform for researchers and practitioners to share innovative studies and findings that enhance our understanding of forensic methodologies and their applications in medical contexts. With an impact factor reflecting its significant contribution to the field, it holds a Q3 ranking in Medicine (miscellaneous) and a commendable Q2 ranking in Pathology and Forensic Medicine as of 2023, indicating its growing influence among scholarly circles. The journal is indexed in Scopus, ranking #76 out of 208 in the Medicine – Pathology and Forensic Medicine category, placing it in the 63rd percentile. Despite it not being an Open Access journal, it remains a crucial resource for professionals, students, and researchers dedicated to forensic sciences and related disciplines. For those seeking cutting-edge research and advancements in forensic methodologies, this journal is an essential addition to any academic repertoire.

Forensic Science International

Pioneering Discoveries in Forensic Medicine and Law
Publisher: ELSEVIER IRELAND LTDISSN: 0379-0738Frequency: 12 issues/year

Forensic Science International is a premier journal published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd, dedicated to advancing the field of forensic science through interdisciplinary research and scholarship. Since its inception in 1978, this esteemed journal has provided a platform for vital research, receiving recognition in the Q1 category for both Law and Pathology and Forensic Medicine as of 2023, underscoring its significant impact in these domains. It currently ranks 54th out of 1025 journals in Social Sciences - Law and 51st out of 208 in Medicine - Pathology and Forensic Medicine, placing it in the top echelons of academic journals according to Scopus metrics. Forensic Science International transitioned to Open Access in 2019, ensuring that critical findings are widely available to the global research community and enhancing collaboration among forensic professionals. With a forward-looking scope that evolves to meet the challenges and innovations of forensic science, this journal remains a pivotal resource for researchers, practitioners, and students who are committed to the continued advancement of forensic science and its applications in legal contexts.

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LEGAL MEDICINE

Bridging Disciplines: Where Law Meets Medicine
Publisher: SPRINGERISSN: 0937-9827Frequency: 6 issues/year

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LEGAL MEDICINE, published by SPRINGER, stands at the forefront of research in the fields of legal medicine, pathology, and forensic science. With an ISSN of 0937-9827 and an E-ISSN of 1437-1596, this esteemed journal has successfully maintained its reputation as a leading publication since its inception in 1990, providing a platform for the dissemination of cutting-edge research and case studies. The journal is recognized as a Q1 category publication in the 2023 Pathology and Forensic Medicine quartiles, ranking #44 out of 208 in its category on Scopus, reflecting its significant contribution to the academic community—demonstrated by its impressive 79th percentile. While the journal operates under a traditional subscription model, it is committed to enhancing access to critical insights in legal medicine. The INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LEGAL MEDICINE invites researchers, professionals, and students to explore its manuscripts that shed light on the intersection of law and medicine, thus pushing the boundaries of what is known in these vital fields.

Forensic Chemistry

Championing excellence in forensic science and practice.
Publisher: ELSEVIERISSN: 2468-1709Frequency: 5 issues/year

Forensic Chemistry is a premier journal published by Elsevier, specializing in the interdisciplinary field of forensic science, with a strong emphasis on analytical and materials chemistry, pathology, and law. Established in 2016 and converging to a significant publication trajectory through 2024, the journal has rapidly ascended to an impressive Q1 ranking across multiple categories, demonstrating its impact and commitment to advancing forensic analysis and methodologies. With an impact factor reflecting its relevance—especially notable with a 95th percentile rank in Social Sciences and Law—Forensic Chemistry serves as an essential resource for researchers, legal authorities, and academics seeking to explore the latest developments in forensic techniques and applications. Its rigorous peer-review process and high-quality publications ensure that it remains at the forefront of scientific inquiry in forensic practices. Access to the journal is available without an open access model, further emphasizing its commitment to curated, high-impact scholarship that contributes to both theoretical foundations and practical applications in the forensic field.

Canadian Society of Forensic Science Journal

Advancing Forensic Knowledge Since 1968
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 0008-5030Frequency: 4 issues/year

The Canadian Society of Forensic Science Journal, published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, serves as a vital platform for the dissemination of research in the field of forensic science, particularly focusing on pathology and forensic medicine. With a rich history since 1968 and an impressive commitment to academic rigor, this journal has established itself as an essential resource for researchers, practitioners, and students alike. Recognized within the Q3 category in the 2023 Scimago Journal Rank in Pathology and Forensic Medicine, it ranks #162 out of 208 journals in its category, affirming its relevance and contribution to the field. While it does not operate under an open access model, the journal remains accessible through institutions and libraries and provides critical insights into advancements and best practices in forensic science. Through its comprehensive approach, the journal aims to advance forensic knowledge and contribute to the professional development of those engaged in this pivotal area of study.

Scandinavian Journal of Forensic Science

Advancing forensic knowledge for a safer tomorrow.
Publisher: SCIENDOISSN: 2353-0707Frequency: 2 issues/year

The Scandinavian Journal of Forensic Science is a premier open-access journal published by SCIENDO since 2012, dedicated to advancing the field of forensic science. With its ISSN 2353-0707, this journal provides a platform for researchers, professionals, and students to disseminate their findings on various aspects of forensic investigations, including but not limited to forensic biology, chemistry, toxicology, and crime scene analysis. The journal plays a vital role in promoting collaboration and knowledge exchange among forensic practitioners and academics, ensuring that cutting-edge research is accessible to all. As a part of the reputable SCIENDO publishing group, the Scandinavian Journal of Forensic Science upholds high standards of peer review and editorial rigor, making it an essential resource for those involved in the forensic science community. Readers can benefit from its open-access model, which fosters wide dissemination and enhances the visibility of published works, ultimately contributing to the societal impact of forensic research.