Conduct a market survey to generate a list of current AI-enabled tools being used by forensic service providers; current or near-market tools marketed as AI-enabled for use by forensic service…

The Johns Hopkins University received a $215,549 Cooperative Agreement from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) under the Measurement and Engineering Research and Standards program (CFDA 11.609) for the period October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026. The award supports a comprehensive market survey of artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled tools currently deployed by forensic service providers, as well as tools marketed or nearing market entry for forensic applications. The recipient will conduct a systematic search across these tool categories and provide standardized documentation for each identified solution.

The primary deliverable is a detailed market analysis that identifies cutting-edge AI technologies applicable to forensic science, documents key players for inclusion in the Forensic Science-AI Community of Practice, and identifies emerging trends, market drivers, barriers, and unmet needs within the forensic science sector. The analysis is intended to benefit forensic service providers and researchers developing new forensic science methods by enhancing their understanding of technological capabilities and market opportunities. No subawards are planned under this cooperative agreement.

Activities

The grant will conduct a systematic search for AI-enabled tools currently being used by forensic service providers, current or near-market AI-enabled tools being marketed for use by forensic service providers, and current or near-market AI-enabled tools that address challenges or have use cases analogous to those in forensic science. The grant will provide standardized documentation on each tool identified.

Expected outcomes

This analysis will help to identify cutting-edge technologies that can enhance the capabilities of forensic science service providers. IT will also help the forensic science community discover important trends in AI in related fields, better understand market drivers and barriers, and document unmet needs.

Intended beneficiaries

Forensic science service providers and researchers who develop new forensic science methods.

Subrecipient activities

The recipient does not intend to subaward funds.