Participate in a research project!
Are you fascinated by forensic biology? Do you want to have a real impact on the development of forensic science research? Come and join us!
Centre for Forensic Biology and Entomology of Department of Invertebrate Biology, Evolution and Conservation invites you to participate in the free-of-charge study as part of the scientific project: “The significance of selected biological and environmental factors in the decomposition of human hair” (the study is conducted in the Polish language).
The aim of the study
The aim of the project is to understand the processes and patterns of hair decomposition. During the study, we will focus on the relationship between hair colour, age, sex, as well as donor origin and the rate of hair decomposition in water and soil environments. Particular attention will be paid to keratinolytic and keratinophilic dermatophytes, which damage hair structure. The results obtained will allow us to extend existing knowledge of hair decomposition processes, which may contribute to their more frequent use in forensic investigations. In the course of the project, we will attempt to determine the timing of decomposition symptoms occurrence, which will enable the creation of a model of hair decomposition. This will allow hair to become the useful material in the future when estimating PMI (post-mortem interval), i.e. the time elapsed between hair being pulled out and evidence being found. The results of this study are particularly important in relation to the so-called ‘missing without a trace’ when there is no corpse at the scene. In such cases, hair may prove to be crucial in the process of case-solving.
The parts of the study carried out under the project
- pre-study eligibility questionnaires
- hair sampling using tweezers from the occipital region of the head
- microscopic analysis of hair, taking into account the timing of the decomposition symptoms occurrence
- mycological analysis of the decomposition symptoms regarding hair.
The research will be carried out in the specialised laboratories of the Faculty of Biological Sciences of the University of Wrocław, with the use of professional equipment.
Benefits of taking part in the study
Participation in the study is free of charge and is set at the pre-arranged time.
Conditions for participation in the study
Being an adult person:
- with no chronic diseases diagnosed
- taking no medication on a permanent basis
- non-smoker and free of stimulants and medication for at least 3 months prior to participation in the study
- with natural, undyed hair, untouched by hairdressing treatments interfering with hair structure (e.g. keratin straightening treatment, botox, Olaplex) for at least 3 months prior to the test.
Course of the study
The study consists of one pre-arranged (via phone call or e-mail) visit. Each participant will be asked to sign the relevant consents and forms necessary for the collection of biological material (i.e. consent to participate in the study, information form for study participants, information clause on personal data processing, consent clause for personal data processing). Approximately 15-20 hairs with roots will then be taken from the donor with the use of tweezers. The hairs will be packed into paper envelopes and submitted for further analysis. Participation is fully anonymous and the participant can withdraw at any time in the course of the study.
Duration of the study
The collection of biological material is a process of short duration. The estimated time for this procedure is approximately 15 minutes.
Location where the study is performed
The study will take place in the building of the Department of Invertebrate Biology, Evolution and Conservation of the University of Wrocław at ul. Przybyszewskiego 65 in Wrocław.
Application to participate in the study
In order to make an appointment, you will first need to complete an application form. Subsequently, those qualified for the study will be able to make an appointment via phone call or e-mail. Application form.
How to contact the research team
mgr Katarzyna Palacz tel. no. +48 666 314 732;
e-mail: wlosy.badania@uwr.edu.pl
Participation in the research is voluntary and you can withdraw from it at any time. Every effort will be made to ensure that the research is carried out in the least disruptive way possible and at the most convenient time for you. The examinations will only be carried out by qualified and appropriately trained people, with your physical and mental comfort in mind.
Translated by Patrycja Orman (student of English Studies at the University of Wrocław) as part of the translation practice.
