University of Exeter launches pioneering forensic consultancy to help solve real-world crimes

The University of Exeter has launched a cutting-edge forensic ecology consultancy that will work directly with police and investigative agencies to help solve crimes and major incidents.

Based on the University’s St. Luke’s campus, ApEx Forensics is one of the first consultancy services of its kind to be founded within a UK university, combining academic expertise with hands-on investigative work.

Led by Professor Karl Harrison, one of the UK’s most experienced forensic archaeologists and former National Forensic Specialist Adviser, the consultancy will assist law enforcement through specialist analysis in areas including DNA, soil forensics, decomposition, garment analysis, and radiocarbon dating.

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Professor Harrison, who joined the University last year after more than two decades in forensic investigation, said the new venture bridges the gap between academic research and front-line criminal work: “The launch of ApEx represents a new frontier for the University in forensic science,” he said. 

“At a time when forensic services are under increasing pressure, this initiative allows us to bring our expertise directly into live investigations. We see this as a significant contribution to the integrity and success of criminal prosecutions and public enquiries.”

ApEx will also play a major role in training the next generation of forensic scientists. Two new crime scene simulation laboratories have been created on the St Luke’s campus, which will support both professional training courses and students studying the University’s new MSc in Forensic Investigations.

Professor Harrison, who has worked on high-profile cases including the Grenfell Tower investigation and appeared as an expert on BBC’s Crimewatch Live, officially launched ApEx this week alongside Professor Lorna Dawson, Head of the Hutton Institute Soil Forensics Group. 

Representatives from police forces and fire services across the South West attended, with tours of the university’s new facilities showcasing how real crime scenes can be recreated for analysis and training.

ApEx is already collaborating with police forces across the South West, Wales, and national policing bodies.

Professor Will Higbee, Associate Pro Vice-Chancellor for Business Engagement and Innovation at the University of Exeter, said the project demonstrates how academic expertise can have a powerful real-world impact: “Our investment in forensic archaeology underlines our commitment to using research for public good,” he said. 

“If we can use our facilities and knowledge to help with major investigations, it not only builds stronger partnerships with police and public bodies but delivers genuine societal benefit.”

The launch marks another milestone in the University of Exeter’s growing focus on applied sciences, innovation, and community collaboration, with ApEx Forensics set to make a real difference both in the classroom and on the front line of criminal investigation.