Alan Langford

Dr Alan Langford is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Applied Sciences at Northumbria University. He holds a PhD in Biological Sciences from the University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne and a BSc (Hons) from Napier Polytechnic. His professional experience includes roles as a reporting forensic scientist in the Scottish Courts and at the Lothian & Borders Police Forensic Science Laboratory, where he specialized in toxicology and drug analysis. He is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (HEA) since 2015.

His research focuses on post-mortem toxicology, particularly drug redistribution and analytical methodologies, alongside innovative educational practices in forensic science. He has developed virtual crime scene investigation tools and blended learning resources, integrating technology like R2S™ case management systems. Langford’s work bridges forensic science practice with pedagogical innovation.

Key publications include editions of Practical Skills in Forensic Science and studies on synthetic cannabinoids, opiate detection via saliva, and Bayesian network applications in fatality assessment. His contributions span peer-reviewed journals in forensic medicine and toxicology.

• Education:
  • BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences, Napier Polytechnic
  • PhD Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne
• Awards:
  • Senior Fellow (SFHEA), Higher Education Academy (2015)