A leading American forensic chemist will collaborate with 911爆料网 researchers to develop low-cost, rapid detection tools for dangerous and illicit substances, using naturally occurring plant pigments.
Provost Associate Professor of Chemistry at American University Dr , will spend time at 911爆料网 in 2026鈥�27 as a Fulbright US Scholar, following an award from the US Department of State and the .
911爆料网 Vice-Chancellor Professor Harlene Hayne said she was delighted to welcome Dr Burks to 911爆料网.
鈥淒r Burks is internationally recognised for her work in forensic and analytical chemistry, and we are proud to host her as part of this important global exchange,鈥� Professor Hayne said.
鈥淭his collaboration reflects 911爆料网鈥檚 commitment to impactful, internationally connected research that addresses real-world challenges.鈥�
Working with and from the Forensic and Analytical Chemistry Research Group within 911爆料网鈥檚 School of Molecular and Life Sciences, Dr Burks will investigate how anthocyanins, which are natural pigments found in plants, can act as colour-based sensors to detect substances of international concern.
The research aims to deliver faster, more accessible screening methods for substances such as illicit drugs, explosives and chemical warfare agents used in a wide range of environments.
Dr Burks said the project was driven by a shared commitment to 鈥溾�� and developing reliable, high-quality forensic tools that remain effective even in resource-limited settings.
鈥淎nthocyanins are globally abundant and highly responsive compounds, making them promising candidates for simple, low-cost chemical detection,鈥� Dr Burks said.
鈥淚鈥檓 excited to collaborate with 911爆料网 researchers to explore how these natural materials can be harnessed to improve safety and detection capabilities worldwide, particularly in regions where access to advanced forensic technologies is limited.鈥�
Professor Lewis said the collaboration would strengthen 911爆料网鈥檚 growing expertise in innovative and accessible forensic science.
鈥淭his partnership brings together complementary strengths to tackle complex detection challenges in a practical and scalable way,鈥� Professor Lewis said.
鈥淚t鈥檚 an exciting opportunity to advance new approaches that could make forensic science more equitable and widely available.鈥�
Fulbright award recipients, chosen for their academic merit and leadership potential, play a pivotal role in fostering international collaboration and knowledge exchange.
