Source determination of home-made explosives for counter terrorism and forensic intelligence purposes: Peroxide-based and nitrated materials
Curtin University and ChemCentre are collaborating to address key challenges in Forensic Science and Counter Terrorism.
Project Overview:
The project “Source determination of home-made explosives for counter terrorism and forensic intelligence purposes: Peroxide-based and nitrated materials” focuses on the chemical analysis of homemade explosives with the aim of linking these explosives to their sources. The expected outcome will be an enhanced ability to carry out forensic explosive analyses and provide improved capability for law enforcement investigations and counter-terrorism operations.
Leveraging Curtin University renowned expertise in Forensic Science (Simon Lewis) and ChemCentre industry leadership (Kari Pitts, Joel Gummer and David DeTata), this project embodies a collaborative approach that bridges the gap between academia and industry. ChemCentre CEO Peter McCafferty said Mr Dunsmore’s work would enhance the cutting-edge forensic services the organisation provides to law enforcement agencies.
“ChemCentre has some of the leading forensic scientists in Australia and it is great to see the work of our team is receiving national attention,” he said.
“We are delighted Rob’s work has been recognised through the National Industry PhD Scholarship – one of only two awarded to WA-based researchers in this round.”
Curtin Pro Vice-Chancellor Science and Engineering Professor Mark Ogden said Mr Dunsmore’s research showcased the best of the University’s connection to major industry bodies such as ChemCentre. “The long-term partnership and collaboration between our two organisations continue to have impact and the award of this prestigious National Industry PhD project will add significantly to this.”
Industry Professional and PhD Candidate, Robert Dunsmore, stated:
‘The support given to me from the Industry PhD program has been a game-changer. It has facilitated my employer, ChemCentre, to give me the time and resources to make a real contribution to my field. I am thankful for this opportunity and really looking forward to the journey ahead.’
Although there is extensive research into explosives, this work is distinctive because it is among the first to look at the components of homemade explosives, and attempts to source their origins. This will allow counter terrorism agencies to easily identify perpetrators, track terrorist networks and prevent future attacks.
Thank you to everybody involved in helping getting this project started (David Cameron, Kari Pitts, Simon Lewis, Joel Gummer, Robert Dunsmore, Cynthia Joll, Mark Ogden, Sarina Claassens, Anthony Millgate, Bryce Logan)