Profesor | Institute of Forensic Research | Poland
Professor Zuzanna Brożek-Mucha, a distinguished chemist and forensic expert, has dedicated her career to advancing forensic science, particularly in the analysis of gunshot residue (GSR). After completing her doctoral studies in 1994, she joined the Institute of Forensic Research, where she has introduced innovative methodologies in forensic investigations, such as scanning electron microscopy and X-ray spectrometry, establishing her as a leader in physicochemical forensic examinations. Her work has had significant impact on forensic practices and contributed to solving complex cases through precise chemical analysis.
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Strengths for the Award
- Depth of Research in Forensic Analysis: Brożek-Mucha has an extensive research portfolio in forensic science, focusing on gunshot residue (GSR) analysis, including optimization of automated GSR analysis, studies on GSR dispersion, and the application of SEM-EDX for forensic discrimination. Her work aligns well with the award’s focus on impactful research.
- Innovative Methods in Forensic Analysis: She has contributed significantly to the optimization of methods, such as time-efficient analysis settings for daily casework using SEM-EDX, which enhances forensic analysis reliability and efficiency. Her work on the dispersion of GSR and characterizing residues on textiles provides valuable tools for real-world forensic applications.
- Diverse Publication Record: Brożek-Mucha has numerous peer-reviewed articles across reputable journals such as Forensic Science International, Science & Justice, and Journal of Forensic Sciences. These publications underscore her established authority and commitment to forensic research.
- Impact on Forensic Practices: Her research on the analysis of GSR and other microtraces has practical applications in criminal casework, supporting accurate crime scene reconstructions and contributing to the advancement of forensic methodologies.
🎓 Education
Professor Brożek-Mucha graduated from the Faculty of Chemistry at the prestigious Jagiellonian University in Poland. She earned her Ph.D. in Chemistry in 1994, paving the way for a career dedicated to forensic research and scientific exploration. Her educational journey was instrumental in equipping her with the skills to become a forensic expert, deeply committed to uncovering the hidden details of chemical traces in forensic science.
💼 Experience
With a professional career spanning nearly three decades, Professor Brożek-Mucha has been an integral member of the Institute of Forensic Research since 1995. Her expertise as an expert witness since 1998 has been invaluable to the legal system, particularly in her pioneering work with microtraces and gunshot residue (GSR) analysis. She has also played an active role in European forensic science through her involvement with the European Network of Forensic Science Institutes (ENFSI) and its specialized working groups on firearms, gunshot residues, and explosives.
🔍 Research Interest
Professor Brożek-Mucha’s primary research focus lies in forensic microtraces, with a specialization in inorganic gunshot residue (GSR) analysis. Her research has addressed the identification of GSR particles, their behavior in proximity to firearms, and the reconstruction of gunshot events. Her commitment to enhancing forensic methodologies has led to significant advances in understanding GSR particles’ chemical composition and distribution, making her a prominent figure in GSR forensic research.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Professor Brożek-Mucha’s groundbreaking contributions have earned her notable recognition in the forensic science community. She is among the top 2% of scientists worldwide, according to a Stanford University list published in partnership with Elsevier and SciTech Strategies, which attests to her substantial scientific impact. Additionally, she has been appointed to advisory roles, such as with the Netherlands Register of Court Experts, underscoring her influence as a forensic consultant.
📚 Publications
- Optimizing the Automated Analysis of Inorganic Gunshot Residue Particles by SEM-EDX: From Synthetic Particle Standards to More Time-Efficient Settings for Daily Casework
- Authors: Zuzanna Brożek-Mucha, Iga Klag
- Publication Year: 2024
- Citations: Please refer to Crossref or Scopus for the latest count.
- Forensic Discrimination of Various Subtypes of Regenerated Cellulose Fibers in Clothing Available on the Consumer Market
- Authors: Jolanta Wąs-Gubała, Mateusz Migdał, Zuzanna Brożek-Mucha
- Publication Year: 2024
- Citations: Please refer to Crossref or Scopus for the latest count.
- A Study of Dispersion of Gunshot Residue from a Frequently Used Serbian Ammunition Cal. 7.65 mm to Support Selected Aspects of Casework in North Macedonia
- Authors: Mimoza Ristova, Maja Skenderovska, Zlatko Skulic, Zuzanna Brożek-Mucha
- Publication Year: 2023
- Citations: Please refer to Crossref or Scopus for the latest count.
- Dental Cementum Examination with SEM/EDX for Unraveling Details along the Lifeline to Assist Identification of a Female Individual
- Authors: Mimoza Ristova, Dejan Josheva, Zuzanna Brożek-Mucha
- Publication Year: 2022
- Citations: Please refer to Crossref or Scopus for the latest count.
- Effects of the Interaction of Gunshot Residue Plume and Cotton Fabrics – An Empirical Study towards Extensive Assessment of Close-Range Shooting Distance
- Authors: Zuzanna Brożek-Mucha
- Publication Year: 2022
- Citations: Please refer to Crossref or Scopus for the latest count.
- Characterisation and Discrimination of So-Called Metallised Fibres Found in Clothing and Decorative Materials Originating from the Consumer Market
- Authors: Jolanta Wąs-Gubała, Katarzyna Skóra, Zuzanna Brożek-Mucha
- Publication Year: 2021
- Citations: Please refer to Crossref or Scopus for the latest count.
- Application of Electron Microscopy, X-ray Spectrometry, and Computed Micro-Tomography for Characterisation of Gunshot Residue Deposition in Textile at Close Range
- Authors: Zuzanna Brożek-Mucha, Paulina Borowska, Joanna Tarasiuk, Sławomir Wroński
- Publication Year: 2020
- Citations: Please refer to Crossref or Scopus for the latest count.
- CHAPTER 7: Scanning Electron Microscopy in Forensic Sensing
- Authors: Zuzanna Brożek-Mucha
- Publication Year: 2019 (Book Chapter)
- Citations: Please refer to Crossref or Scopus for the latest count.
- Towards a Robust Interpretation of Forensic Analysis of Phosphorus and Calcium Traces in Gunshot Residue
- Authors: Zuzanna Brożek-Mucha, Felice Nunziata, Peter Ross, Dariusz Mucha
- Publication Year: 2019
- Citations: Please refer to Crossref or Scopus for the latest count.
- Controversial Suicide Case Using a Submachine Gun with a Sound Suppressor—The Need of Team Work of Forensic Chemistry and Firearm Examiners
- Authors: Zuzanna Brożek-Mucha, Kamil Zdeb
- Publication Year: 2018
- Citations: Please refer to Crossref or Scopus for the latest count.
🔗 Conclusion
Professor Zuzanna Brożek-Mucha has made invaluable contributions to forensic science through her rigorous research, leadership, and commitment to advancing GSR analysis methodologies. Her role as an educator and mentor, combined with her active participation in international forensic networks, reflects her dedication to nurturing the next generation of forensic experts and continuously improving forensic investigation standards. Her legacy in the field will undoubtedly influence forensic science practices for years to come.
