Victoria Claydon

Victoria Claydon is a Lecturer in Forensic Genetics in the Department of Life and Environmental Sciences at Bournemouth University. She is an experienced forensic DNA profiler with a strong background in forensic casework, disaster victim identification (DVI), and cold case investigations. Her work integrates practical forensic science with academic research and teaching.

Research Interests: Victoria's primary research focuses on forensic genetics, particularly in the context of disaster victim identification through bone sampling. She is also deeply involved in bespoke and cold case forensic work, utilizing advanced DNA laboratory techniques to re-examine unresolved criminal cases. Her expertise extends to understanding environmental impacts on cadaver decomposition and DNA preservation.

Victoria has extensive professional experience working with the UK’s leading forensic service providers, contributing to numerous criminal investigations and DVI laboratory operations both nationally and internationally. She applies innovative DNA methodologies to enhance forensic outcomes in challenging cases.

She holds an MSc in Analytical & Forensic Sciences from the University of Glamorgan (2014), where her research centered on environmental factors affecting cadaver decomposition and subsequent DNA yield. This foundational work supports her ongoing interest in DNA stability and recovery in degraded samples.

Victoria is actively engaged in forensic science practice and education, bridging the gap between laboratory application and academic instruction in forensic genetics.