What is cognitive bias? How does cognitive bias influence expert decision-makers in forensic settings? This talk will discuss human cognition, the paradox of expertise, and the effects of different types of cognitive bias in forensic science. Whether it is fingerprint evidence or DNA mixtures, the potential for human error and bias is always present, with certain contexts increasing the risk. The talk will end with a discussion surrounding recommendations to attenuate bias within forensic decision-making.

About the speaker:
Dr Lee John Curley BSc (Hons) SFHEA graduated with his PhD in juror decision making in June, 2018. He is currently a Lecturer in Applied Psychology at Glasgow Caledonian University. His research interests include forensic cognition, legal psychology and decision science. During his academic career, Lee has accrued an impressive publication record, written for the press (e.g., The Conversation), been written about by the press (e.g., The Telegraph and the Times), been interviewed by BBC Radio Scotland and BBC Five Live, presented his research at international conferences, secured external funding (e.g., The Leverhulme Trust and the British Academy) and been invited to discuss his research with respected institutions (e.g., Faculty of Advocates, the British Medical Association, and the Scottish Criminal Bar Association). In 2023, he was even invited to join a discussion on jurors at the House of Lords.

This event is free to attend, although we will be asking for donations at the end of the talk. Participants are under no obligation whatsoever to donate, however please rest assured that the money we collect doesn’t end up in anyone’s pocket – it is used to fund our overhead costs, and travel/accommodation for our speakers who come from further afield.

Accessibility: The Admiral Woods Bar now has a functioning lift which can take wheelchair users (or others who are unable to manage stairs) down to the function room. There is also a disabled toilet in the function room area.