1. Ukrainian-Latvian research project "Open Educational Resource; Forensic Science”
Project No. LV-UA/2021/3
Executing institution from Ukraine: National Scientific Center «Hon. Prof. M. S. Bokarius Forensic Science Institute».
Executing institution from Latvia: Riga Stradiņš University.
From January 2021 to December, the Ukrainian-Latvian project “Open Educational Resource; Forensic Science” was implemented. A delegation of researchers from the National Scientific Center «Hon. Prof. M. S. Bokarius Forensic Science Institute» arrived in Latvia.
PROJECT OBJECTIVES
“Open Educational Resource; Forensic Science” is dedicated to comprehensive research of the latest scientific approaches, the formation of theoretical positions, and practical conclusions aimed at improving the mechanisms of educational and scientific activities in the field of forensic support of justice.
Within the framework of the research project, the importance of creating open educational resources and modernizing methods of training forensic experts will be proven.Considering the social significance of the activities of forensic experts, whose expert opinions help establish the truth in cases, the research project will address specific current issues of forensic science. Proving the importance of creating open educational resources and modernizing methods of training forensic experts is an integral part of this research.The project implemented the following:● solutions to urgent issues of the current state of forensic science in Ukraine and Latvia;● alignment with contemporary trends and approaches to enhancing the process of education, teaching, knowledge exchange in the field of forensic science and criminology;● creation of educational resource (filled with scientific materials, unique and rare publications, educational video presentations of laboratory work) with the possibility of remote use.
2. Trilateral Research Project: «Support for Ukrainian Forensic Experts in Documentation of the War Crimes Committed by the Russian Federation (FOR UKRAINE)».
Project No. LV-80
Implementing Institution (Ukraine): National Scientific Center «Hon. Prof. M. S. Bokarius Forensic Science Institute».Director: Serhii Tiulieniev (at the stage of project implementation).Head of R&D and Publishing, International Cooperation Laboratory: Oleksandr Sviderskyi.Head of International Cooperation Unit: Tetiana Droshchenko.
Implementing Institution (Latvia): State Forensic Science Bureau of Latvia.Director: Maira Čentoricka.Deputy Director: Raimonds Apinis.Head of the Department of Biological and Chemical Research: Māra Rēpele.
Implementing Institution (Estonia): Estonian Forensic Science Institute.Director: Ivar Prits.
In 2023, the trilateral research project «Support for Ukrainian Forensic Experts in Documentation of the War Crimes Committed by the Russian Federation (FOR UKRAINE)» was initiated. Throughout the year, forensic experts from the NSC «Hon. Prof. M. S. Bokarius FSI» (NSC FSI) visited the State Forensic Science Bureau of Latvia (SFSB) in Latvia twice and Estonian Forensic Science Institute (EFSI) once. These working visits aimed to exchange experience, enhance qualifications, and provide assistance in developing and testing new forensic examination methods.
PROJECT OBJECTIVE
To familiarize Ukrainian experts with advanced research methodologies and modern equipment used in the practice of Latvian forensic experts, as well as to exchange experience and offer consultations on challenges related to forensic ballistic and explosive examinations, questioned document examination, handwriting analysis, fingerprint examinations, weapon examination, DNA analysis, and more.
Project Key Achievements:● Addressing urgent issues regarding the current state of forensic practice in Ukraine and Latvia.● Defining modern trends and approaches to improve the processes of education, training, and knowledge exchange in the field of forensic science and criminalistics.● The NSC FSI received charitable assistance from the Republic of Latvia to conduct DNA analyses, including equipment and consumables valued at a total of €70,000.

Skeleton ID
Since March 21, 2023, National Scientific Center «Hon. Prof. M. S. Bokarius Forensic Science Institute» (hereinafter — NSC FSI) has commenced cooperation with the Spanish company Panacea Cooperative Research & Artec Europe SARL. Within the framework of this partnership, the staff of the NSC FSI were granted access to Skeleton•ID software — a modern tool for human identification through craniofacial superimposition, facial comparison, biological profiling, and comparative radiography.
A key feature of Skeleton•ID is its active implementation and successful application by law enforcement and government authorities worldwide, particularly in South American countries, where traditional identification methods often prove insufficient.
As noted by the Spanish representatives, thanks to Skeleton•ID, the process of human identification has been reduced from several hours or even days to a matter of seconds. The patented technology allows for the simultaneous automated comparison of multiple skulls, facial images, and radiographic scans. The software is effectively used to search missing persons databases and to identify unidentified remains, including in mass grave locations.
On January 15, 2025, the NSC FSI signed an additional cooperation agreement with Panacea Cooperative Research S. Coop, marking a logical continuation of the successful partnership established in 2023. This new document reaffirms the mutual commitments of the parties and defines the terms of further cooperation, particularly the continued use of Skeleton•ID software throughout 2025.
At present, specialists of the NSC FSI are actively enhancing their knowledge and practical skills in working with Skeleton•ID, which contributes to increasing the efficiency of forensic examinations in Ukraine and integrating advanced international technologies into the national forensic practice.