Dr Alison Davidson

Technical Specialist-Analytical Chemistr

Technical Services

I work in the University’s Analytical Methods Laboratory maintaining a wide range of analytical instrumentation, facilitating the teaching of analytical chemistry and working with researchers.

I have a PhD in the Potential Evidential Value of Perfumes, Antiperspirants and Deodorants and have specific expertise in chromatography and Scanning Electron Microscopy.

As an active member of the Burial Research Group, I have worked on the application of instrumental chemical analysis to decomposition for almost a decade and co-supervised PhD research in the analysis of biogenic amines as marker chemicals. I have also been a technical advisor on numerous European internships, post-graduate and undergraduate decomposition projects in Forensic Science.

Other current research interests include the human chemical profile and the analysis of stress hormones such as cortisol.

This is my second career since, following many years as a Data Network Analyst, I took a radical change of direction in 2005 and enrolled on Staffordshire University’s Forensic Science Award later graduating with a First Class honours degree and with the Scientifics prize for best Forensic Science Student and the RSC prize for Best Forensic Chemistry project.

Professional memberships and activities

Royal Society of Chemistry

Higher Education Academy

Academic qualifications

  • PhD in The Potential Evidential Value of Perfumes, Antiperspirants and Deodorants

  • BSc(Hons) Forensic Science

  • Postgraduate Certificate of Higher and Professional Education

  • Postgraduate Certificate in Research Supervision

Expertise

Analytical chemistry – particularly the analysis of volatile organic compounds using gas chromatography.

Scanning Electron Microscopy.

Research interests

The evidential value of fragrance compounds and human scent.

The chemistry of the burial environment.

Analysis of stress hormones by HPL.

in the UK for Quality Education

Sustainable Development Goal 4, Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024

for Career Prospects

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023

for Facilities

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023

for Social Inclusion

The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023

of Research Impact is ‘Outstanding’ or ‘Very Considerable’

Research Excellence Framework 2021

of Research is “Internationally Excellent” or “World Leading”

Research Excellence Framework 2021

Four Star Rating

QS Star Ratings 2021