Over 1,700 abstracts from more than 90 countries worldwide were submitted. Following the selection process for oral presentations, four of our research projects were chosen and will be presented at the 24th Triennial Meeting of the International Association of Forensic Sciences, which will take place in Sofia, Bulgaria, from 25–30 May 2026.
We congratulate our students who were selected and will present their research: Ledio Zeneli, Clara Pisano, Gaia Gervasi and Janice Xerri. We also express our gratitude to the academic team and lecturers who supported the research, as well as to our partner companies, Securcube, EcaptureDtech and the Malta Police Forensic Science Laboratory. We remain committed to continuing our work in advancing forensic science research and innovation.
Below is a brief description of the selected projects:
1. Mapping the Digital Footprint of Malta: A Forensic-Grade Wireless Network Study
Researchers: Gaia Gervasi and Janice Xerri (students, Master’s in Cyber security, Digital Forensics and Crime Analysis), Andreas Melinato (Head, European Forensic Institute), Nicola Chemello (CEO, Securcube S.r.l.)
This study delivers the first large-scale forensic-grade mapping of wireless network coverage across Malta. Using BTS Tracker hardware and its companion data-collection application, the research team conducted continuous scanning on foot, by bus and by car, capturing:
- Cellular cell IDs
- Wi-Fi signals
- Bluetooth beacons
The resulting dataset provides an unprecedented ground-truth reference of signal distribution across the island. Early findings revealed unexpected coverage gaps, even in high-density areas, highlighting the limitations of relying solely on traditional cell tower records, where signal variability and incomplete mapping can lead to misleading investigative conclusions.
This project demonstrates how forensic-grade signal mapping can support both prosecution and defence by offering:
- A scientifically validated reconstruction of device movement
- A reliable framework for challenging or corroborating police assertions
- A new standard for mobile location analysis in cases ranging from homicide to missing persons investigations
The study marks Phase 1 of a long-term initiative to extend the mapping to all Maltese islands.
2. Enhancing Latent Print Recovery: Fingerprint Visualisation on Synthetic Leather
Researcher: Clara Pisano (student, Master’s of Science in Forensic Biology; alumna, Bachelor’s in Forensic Science), Maria Carla Rampulla (Lecturer, European Forensic Institute)
Fingerprint detection on synthetic leather presents unique challenges due to its non-porous, textured surface. This research compares two of the most established enhancement techniques used for difficult substrates:
- Vacuum Metal Deposition (VMD)
- Cyanoacrylate Fuming (CNA)
Pisano’s study investigates the clarity, consistency and ridge-detail quality produced by each method, contributing valuable insights into controlled laboratory processes for complex materials commonly encountered in cases involving bags, wallets, upholstery and vehicle interiors.
The findings support operational forensic laboratories in selecting the most effective treatment pathway depending on the type, age and condition of latent prints on synthetic surfaces.
3. Validating 3D Crime Scene Tools: Fall Analysis and Bullet Trajectory in eyesCloud3D
Researcher: Ledio Zeneli (student, Bacherlor’s in Investigative Criminology and Criminal Psychology).
Zeneli’s conducted two complementary validation studies focusing on eyesCloud3D, a cloud-based photogrammetry platform developed by EcaptureDtech:
- Analysis of the “Fall Analysis” tool
- Analysis of the “Bullet Trajectory” tool
Using 3D models generated through smartphone-based photogrammetry, the research evaluates:
- The accuracy of the platform’s computational results
- Its reliability in reconstructing events
- Its applicability in forensic casework involving impact analysis, injury biomechanics and ballistic reconstruction
These validation studies contribute to a broader question: can cloud-based photogrammetry reliably support modern forensic reconstructions?
4. Smart Photogrammetry in Forensic Science: Evaluating eyesCloud3D for Educational and Professional Use
A parallel research initiative, conducted with the support of EcaptureDtech, explored the feasibility of using smartphones to create 3D models of small, medium and large objects, as well as full crime scene environments. Six students scanned items indoors and outdoors using photographs or video, then uploaded the data to the eyesCloud3D platform for model generation.
Key findings include:
- Medium-sized indoor objects yielded the highest-quality models
- Reflective materials, such as vehicle surfaces, were the most challenging to scan
- All students reported that even brief training significantly improved model accuracy
- The technology shows strong potential for both educational and professional forensic applications, particularly when in-person crime scene access is limited
This research reinforces the growing role of photogrammetry in crime scene documentation, training and evidence visualisation.
Emerging Forensic Research at the European Forensic Institute: Innovations in Digital Mapping, Fingerprint Visualisation and 3D Crime Scene Analysis
The 2024–2025 cycle of student research at the European Forensic Institute highlights a shared mission: strengthening forensic reliability through empirical validation and technological innovation.
From mapping Malta’s digital communication landscape, to visualising fingerprints on challenging substrates, and validating the accuracy of 3D reconstruction tools, these projects not only advance academic knowledge but also provide meaningful contributions to active forensic practice.
The Institute remains committed to developing rigorous, field-ready methodologies that support investigators, laboratories and the justice system as a whole.
The European Forensic Institute continues to advance the scientific foundations of forensic practice through pioneering student-led research. Recent projects carried out within the Master’s programmes in Cybersecurity, Digital Forensics and Crime Analysis, as well as the BSc pathways in Forensic Sciences and Investigative Criminology, explore technologies that directly enhance real-world investigative accuracy.
From digital signal mapping across an entire island, to microscopic fingerprint visualisation, to validation of advanced 3D reconstruction tools, these studies reflect the Institute’s commitment to evidence-based innovation.
We encourage our students to stay active by applying the knowledge they acquire, continuously improving their skills, and bridging the gap between academia and the professional world.
European Forensic Institute, Excellence in Forensic Science.
The conference will provide an excellent opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue and foster joint research efforts within our field.
