Forensic medicine branch

Forensic medicine is organized as a branch of the Department of Morphology, Institute of Medical Biology. The main task is to perform research and give lectures. Medical students in Tromsø receive their forensic training during their 12th semester. Besides teaching and research, the professor in forensic medicine is responsible for the routine forensic pathology in Northern Norway, included Spitsbergen. On request from the police and the court about 150 autopsies are annually performed in Tromsø. This includes examination of unidentified bodies and human remains. Crime scene visits and clinical examinations, included examination of perpetrators are also performed. The morgue is located at the University Hospital and pathologists at the hospital participate in the routine work. Most of the deaths are due to natural causes, accidents or suicides. About 4-5 homicides are committed in Northern Norway each year.