Dr B J Jones read physics at the University of Oxford (Hertford College) and graduated with a PhD from Trinity College Dublin for research on thin carbon films.  Following work on novel microelectronics materials, Dr Jones moved to University College London to examine mobile phones damaged in terrorism or arson activities, in association with the Forensic Science Service. Joining Brunel University, London in 2006, he transformed a microscopy and spectroscopy unit into a research active centre, leading interdisciplinary research teams in forensic science and carbon microstructures.  Dr Jones has acted in a consultancy capacity for a range of companies, as audit officer in an ISO accredited laboratory, and in research and industry project management.  He joined Abertay University in 2015, with research focusing on surface micro and nano properties, particularly fingerprints in forensic science, medical instruments and air pollution. Dr Jones led the Division of Science from 2015-2019, expanding research and knowledge transfer in forensic, biomedical and environmental science, and launching the University’s first integrated masters degrees.  The development of research and the incorporation of research in teaching was commended as an exemplar in the sector by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences in 2018.

In 2011 The Institute of Physics cited Dr Jones’s work as, "An outstanding example of high quality university science with impact for industry”; in 2013 The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences awarded his research the PW Allen award, reflecting quality, novelty and impact; and his work is incorporated into the latest Home Office and Interpol guidelines.

ELE001 How Big is Infinity? How do we know what we know?
ELE006 Global Change
ELE020 Forensic Investigation

ENV102 Environmental Science Data Handling and Presentation
ENV306 Environmental Monitoring and Pollution
ENV422 Environmental Policy and Regulation

FOR101 Foundations of Chemistry 1
FOR102 Foundations of Chemistry 2
FOR103 Introduction to Forensic Science Practice
FOR206 Quality Regulation & The Law
FOR302 Advanced Forensic Examination and analysis Techniques
FOR303 Forensic Chromatography and Spectroscopy
FOR304 Forensic Trace Evidence
FOR305 Forensic Material Investigation
FOR309 Firearms, Fires & Explosions
FOR404 Current Concepts in Forensic Biology
FOR410 Project & Professional Practice Preparation

LSC401 Research Project Methods
LSC402 Honours Project

SCN501 Contemporary Topics
SCN502/506 Placement Based Learning
SCN503/507 MSci Project
SCN504 Science Future and Society

Dr Jones’ research applies surface science, including spectroscopy methods, for both end-user focused work and fundamental investigations.  On nanoscale interactions in forensic science this includes investigations of fingerprints and the study of interactions between the print, surface and development agent. This involves understanding chronology of fingerprints on documents, as well as improving choice of development agents through understanding surfaces.  Other forensic research includes bloody marks, gunshot residue and mobile phone hacking.  Dr Jones is actively involved in Home Office work to improve forensic protocols for police forces, has given invited lectures for organisations such as The Fingerprint Society, and his research has been reported around the globe.

Dr Jones’ research on diamond-like carbon includes both end-user focused work and fundamental materials science investigating the nature of the thin film structures. Applications include medical devices, aerospace and low friction coatings for increasing machining efficiency. He has also applied his analytical investigations to research areas including high-k dielectrics, indium and tin based varistors, and airborne particulates.

Dr Jones has a strong interest in innovative teaching methods, and his pedagogical research includes active learning, competency-based assessment and professional development.  His work on providing a structure for active learning to increase engagement and attainment has won commendation for its effectiveness and diversity.

Dr Jones's research and knowledge transfer work has received funding from organisations including:

Innovate UK

The Home Office

The Leverhulme Trust

EPSRC

HEFCE

Technology Strategy Board

National Institute of Health Research

European Regional Development Fund

London Development Agency

The Royal Society

The Scottish Institute for Policing Research

Fellow of the Insitiute of Physics

The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences awarded Dr Jones' research the PW Allen award 2013, reflecting quality, novelty and impact.

Determining the order of deposition of natural latent fingerprints and laser printed ink using chemical mapping with secondary ion mass spectrometry.
N Attard Montalto, JJ Ojeda, BJ Jones
Science & Justice 53 (2013) 2

External examiner / Assessor for: Sheffield Hallam University, Leeds Metropolitan (Beckett) University, Teesside University, Nottingham Trent University, Staffordshire University, Edinburgh Napier University, Huddersfield University.

Invited Speaker including: Fingerprint Society, International Fingerprint Research Group, International Workshop and Summer School on Plasma Physics (Bulgaria)