The microbial experience can be used to prove or disprove medical malpractice cases.
Microbial forensic analysis is the practice of scientifically identifying microbial agents, their origins, and potential effects with the goal of presenting the findings as legal and scientific evidence. This evidence is crucial to the successful prosecution of biocrime and medical malpractice cases. The process generally consists of sample collection, agent identification, risk analysis, and validation. To successfully meet these requirements, microbial forensics requires the combination of several related disciplines, including microbial genomics and bioinformatics.
Microbial forensics is the practice of scientifically identifying microbial agents, their origins, and potential effects on humans.
Definitive identification of biological threats, their origin, and the extent of the potential risks involved is the first of the two main functions of microbial forensics. The second is to present the findings in a scientifically and legally defensible manner. The first function is critical from a containment standpoint and can potentially save thousands of lives when biohazards are encountered. The second function is crucial to successfully identify and prosecute those responsible for the threat. Both functions together form the first line of defense against microbiological threats.
Microbial expertise is not only used in bioterrorism cases. Incidents of medical malpractice, accidental exposure, and natural biological hazards can also benefit. However, identifying and positively linking biological agents to specific sources can be more complex and time consuming than other forensic processes. Conclusively proving the origins of a biological attack or any other source of exposure requires a multidisciplinary approach. A typical investigation may include several associated areas of microbiology, such as microbial genomics, phylogenetics, and bioinformatics.
The microbial forensic analysis process typically consists of four steps. The first is the collection of samples at a site of suspected exposure. This must be done correctly to avoid compromising the integrity of the evidence. The second step is the positive identification of the microbial agent and its potential as a biological attack mechanism. The third step involves multidisciplinary analysis of the samples to establish exact genetic profiles for use in further research. The last step is the validation of all analytical processes and methods to assimilate forensic evidence.
For those interested in entering the field of microbial forensics, the commitment to education can be rigorous. Basic entry-level qualifications include a biology or microbiology degree covering virology, environmental microbiology, microbial genetics and principles of microbiology. A master’s degree covering forensic toxicology, forensic biology, prion studies, and viruses and bacteria is often required. For those interested in the field on an educational or medical level, a doctoral degree is required. Depending on the level of involvement, microbial forensics students may be looking to spend anywhere from four to eleven years beyond the foundation degree.