| Field Overview | Forensic Drug Chemistry involves the identification and quantification of illegal substances and prescription medications. This is often crucial in criminal cases involving drug use or distribution. |
| Key Techniques | The key techniques in this field include spectroscopy, chromatography, crystallography, and immunoassay techniques to identify and quantify substances. |
| Typical Objects of Study | Substances often studied in this field include narcotics, hallucinogens, depressants, stimulants, and anabolic steroids. |
| Relevant Laws | Laws relating to controlled substances, drug trafficking and use are integral to this field. Regulatory frameworks vary globally, examples include the Controlled Substances Act (USA), Misuse of Drugs Act (UK), etc. |
| Role in Forensic Science | Forensic drug chemists might conduct tests on substances present at crime scenes, present findings in court, confirm the validity of a prescription, or identify emerging drug trends to inform law enforcement strategies. |
| Job Prospects | Forensic drug chemists may find career opportunities in law enforcement agencies, pharmaceutical companies, research institutes, university laboratories etc. Continuing education opportunities can lead to specializations such as toxicology or narcotics. |
