Welcome to We Are Forensic.
This website is a resource for scientists, students, and all those who may be interested in forensic science and sports drug testing, as well as some learning and teaching related content.
You’ll find expert analysis on the latest developments in the fast-moving world of forensic science.
Dr Tom Bassindale
We Are Forensic is run by Dr Tom Bassindale, Forensic and Analytical Scientist at Sheffield Hallam University, who has specialist experience in forensic toxicology. Currently Head of School of Biosciences and Chemistry, leading on all aspects of provision in the school. He has an established reputation for providing professional forensic services for the police and courts. Dr Bassindale is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry.
He says: “I’ve been at Sheffield Hallam for over ten years, and am now Head of School, having been principal lecturer and subject lead for chemistry and forensic sciences. Before taking up my academic role in September 2011, I worked in New Zealand as a forensic scientist for the national forensic science provider ESR. I managed hundreds of forensic toxicology cases, both criminal and coronial. I became experienced in giving court evidence, in family and criminal courts, and at each stage of criminal proceedings.
“The laboratory in NZ is accredited by the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors Laboratory Accreditation Board (ASCLAD/LAB) based on ISO 17025 standards. I attained Authorised Analyst status under the Land Transport Act 1998, allowing me to report drug and drink driving cases.
“Prior to this my background was sports drug testing, working for the world leading Drug Control Centre at King’s College in London. My PhD ‘Analytical perspectives and endocrine implications of androstenedione administration in young women’ was published in several peer reviewed articles. One of the articles was referenced by the Food and Drug Administration White Paper on ‘Health Effects of Androstenedione’, which was passed by the US Congress. My MSc project on the analysis of MDMA in urine samples was awarded best MSc Project by the British Academy of Forensic Science in 1999.
“I have published a number of peer reviewed articles in the area of forensic science and doping control. I have co-written several book chapters, inclduing ‘Illicit Drugs and Toxicology’ in: Expert Evidence by Ian Freckelton and Hugh Selby, which was published 2010 by Thomson Reuters.
I have a degree in Chemistry from the University of Sussex and my MSc and PhD in forensic science from King’s College, London.
“I am avid cyclist and runner and retain a big interest in sports drug testing – a topic I am sure I will touch on more than once in my blog.”