We pride ourselves on our dedication to cutting-edge research and practical application, and being at the forefront of innovation in supporting policing.
With a distinguished history of collaborating closely with law enforcement agencies, Cranfield offers a unique blend of academic expertise and real-world insight. Through tailored training programs, bespoke research projects, and the development of advanced technologies, Cranfield University empowers police forces to enhance their capabilities, optimise resource allocation, and effectively tackle evolving challenges in maintaining public safety and security. Leveraging our multidisciplinary approach and state-of-the-art facilities, Cranfield serves as a trusted partner in shaping the future of policing, driving progress, and fostering safer communities.
Forensic science and crime scene investigation
Cranfield Forensic Institute (CFI) stands as a testament to our commitment to innovation and excellence. Recent investment in CFI has transformed it into a hub of cutting-edge facilities, making Cranfield a leader in forensic education in the UK. As a world-class teaching centre, CFI excels in various fields, including ballistics, explosives, and material science. We promote a hands-on approach, using unique facilities such as Cranfield Ordnance Test and Evaluation Centre (COTEC) for explosive investigation.
Digital forensics
Cranfield University has been synonymous with the domain of digital forensics since the early 2000s, focusing on identifying, acquiring, processing, analysing, and reporting on electronically stored data. We play a crucial role in diverse scenarios, gathering intelligence, preventing crimes, and assisting in criminal cases ranging from murders to domestic violence.
Counterterrorism
Our Counterterrorism programmes address the complex issues surrounding terrorism, counterterrorism, risk management, and resilience. The Counterterrorism, Intelligence, Risk and Resilience Group conducts groundbreaking research on issues like radicalisation, risk assessment, and de-radicalisation, contributing to shaping effective counterterrorism strategies.
Surveillance
The Centre for Computational Engineering Sciences has a proven track record in the development of software for security and surveillance, from threat detection using human pose estimation and object recognition to sophisticated analysis of visual data.
Advanced vehicle engineering and accident investigation
The Advanced Vehicle Engineering Centre (AVEC) is a specialist research and development facility. AVEC focuses primarily on the development, application and evaluation of advanced vehicle technologies to improve communication systems and help make vehicles more capable, safer and more efficient. In addition, Cranfield’s accident investigation laboratory supports the work that is carried out in the Safety and Accident Investigation Centre. The laboratory is unique in teaching establishments outside of the United States and complements our renowned full-scale field exercises.
