David Flatman-Fairs

David Flatman-Fairs is a Senior Lecturer at Staffordshire University, based within the Health, Education, Policing and Sciences school. With a background in chemistry, he transitioned to forensic science, lecturing since 2002. He led the EDULINK project (2008–2011), a EU-funded initiative to enhance forensic education across the Caribbean and Southern African regions. He currently oversees the Staffordshire Forensic Partnership (SFP), a collaboration with Staffordshire Police, focusing on real-world forensic challenges and student placements.

Educations:

• HND Science (Chemistry), Staffordshire University
• BSc (Hons) Applied and Analytical Chemistry, Staffordshire University

Research Interests: His work centers on crime scene investigation techniques, including chemical analysis of footwear/tyre rubber, fingerprint digitization, blood spatter simulations, and paint analysis. He emphasizes bridging academic research with practical forensic applications through the SFP’s Work-Streams.

Awards:

• 2017 Collaborative Award for Teaching Excellence (CATE)
• 2019 National Undergraduate Employability Award

Teaching & Partnerships: Teaches crime scene documentation, chemical analysis, and mock crime scene modules. The SFP offers student placements (summer, MSci, sandwich years) and research projects aligned with police priorities. The partnership is nationally recognized and chaired by the Deputy Chief Constable.

Labs/Teams: Leads the SFP’s traditional forensic science initiatives (non-digital/cyber) and collaborates internationally, including forensic training in Mauritius.