A team of undergraduate Biology students from the American University in Dubai (AUD) has achieved a milestone rarely reached at the undergraduate level. Their cutting-edge forensic research has been published in the official Book of Abstracts at the prestigious World Police Summit 2025, alongside leading global forensic experts from over 130 countries.

The students presented their pioneering project titled “Molecular Age Estimation: Current Perspectives and Future Considerations”. The study investigates a range of innovative molecular techniques, including DNA methylation, microRNA profiling, mitochondrial mutation tracking, proteomics, and telomere analysis, which are aimed at improving the accuracy and ethical foundations of age estimation in forensic investigations.

Watching our students take the global stage was deeply moving. Their work being recognized among the world’s leading forensic experts speaks volumes about their hard work and the strength of their character. Their research has the power to change lives, and this is the kind of impact we dream of as educators. They made it real.
Dr. Muriel Tahtouh Zaatar

Guided by Dr. Muriel Tahtouh Zaatar, Chair of the Department of Biological and Physical Sciences at AUD and Lt. Col. Dr. Rashid Hamdan Al Ghafri, Secretary General of the World Police Summit and Deputy Director General of the Forensic Sciences and Criminology Department at Dubai Police, the research exemplifies the growing impact of youth-led innovation in advancing global policing and criminal justice practices. It is scheduled for full publication in Beyond the Badge: Strategic Innovations and Global Approaches in Policing, to be released by Springer in September 2025.

This accomplishment highlights the strength of academic-police collaboration and reinforces the UAE’s position as a global hub for next-generation forensic science and innovation.