Forensic science (usually abbreviated to forensics) is the application of various sciences to answer questions that are important to a legal system, which may be related to criminal acts. However, apart from its connection to the legal system, forensics generally includes things or methods that are scientific in nature and also rules that are formed from the facts of various incidents, to identify physical evidence.

Chemistry is a science that is closely related to forensics. A forensic chemist can help identify unknown materials found at a crime scene (TKP).[1] Forensic specialists in this field have a number of different methods and tools to help identify unknown materials. Common specific methods for this field include high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and thin layer chromatography.

The development of the world of chemical forensics is an interesting thing. This prompted the Chemistry Department, FMIPA, Tanjungpura University to hold a Public Lecture entitled "The Role of Chemistry in Scientific Crime Investigation" on Saturday (25 November 2017). The speaker in this Public Lecture is a 2005 Chemistry alumnus, IPTU Helmiady, S.Si. Bang Helmi, as he is familiarly known, currently works as an Examining Staff for Forensic Chemistry and Psychology, Puslabfor Bareskrim, National Police Headquarters.

Bang Helmi conveyed many things in this public lecture session. He explained the relevance of chemistry to the field of forensics, several examples of cases he had handled both in the fields of toxicology and the environment. Students looked enthusiastic about participating in this public lecture. Scientific forums like this are learning opportunities for students to gain insight into the applications of chemistry in various areas of life.