M**der Mystery: Can you use forensic science to solve the M**der?

Join us for this M**der Mystery event brought to you by Professor Caroline Wilkinson and her team at the Forensic Research Institute at Liverpool John Moores University as they bring to life the skills that experts use to solve crimes.

Test your investigative skills to determine who the victim is and who killed her. A series of forensic experts, from the fields of face recognition, CCTV analysis, anthropology, genealogy, psychology, policing and drones, will present evidence relating to identification of the victim and the most likely murderer. The case may be fictional, but the research behind the evidence is very real.

This interactive ‘Whodunnit’ brings you into the role of the experts where you can learn about new research impacting the criminal justice system.

Important points to note

• This event is suitable for age 16+

• Event format: This event is interactive and will involve a digital voting system (don’t forget to bring your phone).

• Content warning: This event will be based on a fictional M**der and discussions may involve violence, death and weapons. The audience will be asked to interact with the speakers using a digital voting system.

• Filming: Livestreaming and photography may take place at this event. Please let a member of the RSE Public Engagement team know if you do not want to be photographed. Recorded events will be made available on the RSE YouTube channel.

SPEAKER

Director of Forensic Research Institute, Liverpool John Moores University

Caroline Wilkinson is Director of the Forensic Research Institute (est.2023). Caroline is a chartered forensic anthropologist Level I (craniofacial specialism) by the Royal Anthropological Institute (RAI) and is an experienced forensic practitioner. Caroline is Chair of the COST-funded Migrant Disaster Victim Identification network involving over 100 members from across the world. Caroline is also Director of Face Lab, a LJMU research group that carries out forensic/archaeological research and consultancy work including craniofacial analysis, facial depiction and forensic art.

COLLABORATOR

Liverpool John Moores University

The Institute is a research and training organisation with expertise in aspects of evidence collection, analysis, reporting and testimony. We have a proven track record of impact in assisting criminal justice agencies in crime-prevention, police work, the preparation of cases, victim identification, victim and witness support and much more.

About the Curious festival

The RSE’s free Curious festival of knowledge is back, from Saturday 5 − Sunday 13 September 2026!

Curious is Scotland’s annual festival of knowledge. Across its seven-year history, Curious has welcomed over 10,000 attendees into its yearly programme of talks, workshops, discussions and exhibitions – all covering different topics and subject areas. There’s no need for you to have any prior specialist knowledge before coming along, just bring your curious self! With plenty of events both in person and online, you can take part from anywhere.

You can check out the full programme of events here.

Accessibility

We aim to make events as accessible as possible. If you have any accessibility requirements or have any questions related to how we can support this event, please contact [email protected]. Accessibility information for the RSE building can be found on our website.

• Step-free access: Ramped access for visitors is available via 26 George Street through Lakeland. Upon arrival, please call 0131 240 5000 and a member of staff will meet you and guide you to the event. Please note that the entrance ramp has a steep gradient (1:12).

• Wheelchair spaces: If you would like to book a space as a wheelchair user, please select the ticket type 'wheelchair space ticket' during the booking process. If this is sold out, please contact the Curious team on [email protected].

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