PHF Science has contributed to shaping the future of battlefield forensics through a landmark international collaboration, bringing together military, government, academic and forensic experts from across the NATO community.
Battlefield forensics applies forensic science in conflict and military environments to recover, preserve and analyse evidence that supports operational decision-making, humanitarian efforts, and the investigation of war crimes and other serious offences.
In 2025, the NATO Science for Peace and Security (SPS) Programme awarded funding to Gillian Chandler, Principal Technician PHF Science, and Master Sergeant Rikke Rietveld of the Danish Defence and Cranfield University, to co-direct the inaugural Advanced Research Workshop in Battlefield Forensics. Hosted by the Danish Defence in Nymindegab on Denmark's west coast, it was the first event of its kind dedicated to advancing this emerging discipline.
The workshop attracted 91 participants from 20 NATO and NATO Partner countries, creating a unique opportunity for military, government, law enforcement and civilian forensic experts to develop a shared Battlefield Forensics Framework. The framework aims to improve coordination, interoperability and cooperation between the organisations involved in forensic activities during military operations and conflict response.
Gillian Chandler and Maarten Kruijver delivered presentations on behalf of PHF Science, alongside other international subject matter experts. Expert presentations, collaborative workshops and tabletop exercises enabled participants to exchange knowledge, identify common challenges, and develop practical recommendations for strengthening battlefield forensic capability.
The workshop delivered several significant outcomes. Participants established a new international Battlefield Forensics network to support ongoing collaboration and knowledge sharing, while the NATO SPS Programme committed funding for two additional workshops in 2026 and 2027. The initiative also contributed to the publication of the first Battlefield Forensics e-book in the NATO Science Series, providing an important reference for researchers and practitioners in this rapidly evolving field.
For PHF Science, participation reflects the organisation's commitment to applying its internationally recognised forensic science expertise to global security challenges. By helping develop shared frameworks and international partnerships, PHF Science is strengthening the forensic capabilities needed to support military operations, including peace-keeping and humanitarian response, and the pursuit of justice in complex environments.