FINAL by: OSAC Program Office; Version 2, January 13, 2020 1

OSAC RESEARCH NEEDS ASSESSMENT FORM

Title of research need: Validation of the “Physical Stability of Facial Features of Adults” document

Describe

the need:

The absence of a literature review of relevant studies [scientific, medical, academic, and 

professional] regarding the physical stability of the facial features of adults detailed within 

the current Physical Stability of Facial Features of Adults document represents a research 

gap. 

A related gap exists in that, once relevant research is identified, there will be a need to 

translate those research findings into language appropriate for inclusion into subsequent 

editions of “Physical Stability of Facial Features” standards documents (e.g., language 

appropriate for an analyst’s use, rather than a medical professional).

Keyword(s): Facial Features, Physical Stability, Aging

Submitting subcommittee(s): Facial Identification Date Approved: February 26, 2021

(If SAC review identifies additional subcommittees, add them to the box above.)

Background Information:

1. Does this research need address a gap(s) in a current or planned standard? (ex.: Field identification system 

for on scene opioid detection and confirmation)

Yes. As stated in the Physical Stability of Facial Features of Adults (and the STRP report on the document), this is a 

current gap in this standard. 

2. Are you aware of any ongoing research that may address this research need that has not yet been published 

(e.g., research presented in conference proceedings, studies that you or a colleague have participated in but 

have yet to be published)?

No.

3. Key bibliographic references relating to this research need: (ex.: Toll, L., Standifer, K. M., Massotte, D., eds. 

(2019). Current Topics in Opioid Research. Lausanne: Frontiers Media SA. doi: 10.3389/978-2-88963-180-3)

To be developed by researchers after consultation with the subcommittee - this gap calls for references to be 

identified.

4. Review the annual operational/research needs published by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) at 

https://nij.ojp.gov/topics/articles/forensic-science-research-and-development-technology-working-groupoperational#latest? Is your research need identified by NIJ?

No.
FINAL by: OSAC Program Office; Version 2, January 13, 2020 2

5. In what ways would the research results improve current laboratory capabilities?

The research would provide a scientific foundation on which to base informed conclusions by facial

comparison experts using the Physical Stability of Facial Features of Adults document.

It would also be a valuable addition to training programs for facial image examiners, which stands

to improve their overall efficiency and accuracy.

6. In what ways would the research results improve understanding of the scientific basis for the 

subcommittee(s)?

This research would validate or refute the opinions of the authors of the Physical Stability of Facial

Features of Adults document, provide reference documentation, and allow for appropriate

revisions based on scientific data.

7. In what ways would the research results improve services to the criminal justice system?

This research would add accuracy, objectivity, and validity to expert testimony in the field of facial

identification.

8. Status assessment (I, II, III, or IV): I

Major gap in 

current 

knowledge

Minor gap in 

current 

knowledge

No or limited

current research is 

being conducted I III

Existing current 

research is being 

conducted II IV

This research need has been identified by one or more subcommittees of OSAC and is being provided as an 

informational resource to the community.