A new international academic partnership between the University of Central Oklahoma and Coventry University aims to strengthen forensic research, counterterrorism capabilities and responses to emerging security threats.
Two universities from the United States and the United Kingdom are expanding their research collaboration through the establishment of a Center for Counterterrorism and Forensics, an initiative aimed at advancing forensic science, national security research and public safety.
Announced on November 4, 2026, the initiative brings together the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) and Coventry University in the UK. The new centre builds upon an existing academic partnership between the institutions, first announced in 2024.
The collaboration will unite UCO's W. Roger Webb Forensic Science Institute with Coventry University's Protective Security Lab, creating opportunities for researchers, faculty members and students to work together on emerging security challenges.
Focus on Emerging Security Threats
The centre will focus on several critical areas of national and international security, including:
- Insider threats and security vulnerabilities.
- Personal safety and public protection.
- Critical infrastructure protection.
- Forensic science applications in security incidents.
- Research addressing emerging national security challenges.
Through joint research and educational initiatives, the universities aim to develop innovative approaches to identifying, understanding and responding to complex security threats.
International Research and Academic Exchange
An important component of the partnership will be international academic exchange. Faculty members and students from both institutions will have opportunities to participate in collaborative research and educational activities across the United States and the United Kingdom.
The initiative also proposes the establishment of a U.S.-UK advisory board to address shared security concerns and strengthen cooperation on international research priorities.
Among the potential research initiatives is an examination of security requirements for major public events, including the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles and Oklahoma City.
Strengthening Forensic Science Research
The University of Central Oklahoma's W. Roger Webb Forensic Science Institute is a major component of the collaboration. The institute has experienced substantial growth since its establishment, increasing from fewer than 100 students in 2009 to more than 1,000 forensic science majors.
It offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in forensic science, alongside a Doctor of Science degree. Its graduate programmes are accredited by the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC).
The university is also planning an expansion of its forensic science facilities, including additional chemistry teaching and research laboratories. The project has received $10 million in funding from the Oklahoma State Legislature, alongside additional federal support.
A New Direction for Global Forensic Collaboration
The memorandum of understanding establishing the centre was signed during a ceremony at Coventry University's campus in Coventry, England. Senior representatives from both universities attended the signing.
The partnership reflects the growing importance of interdisciplinary and international cooperation in addressing modern security threats. By combining expertise in forensic science, protective security and national security research, the two institutions aim to strengthen research capabilities and develop solutions with practical applications.
The establishment of the Center for Counterterrorism and Forensics could also create new opportunities for students and early-career researchers interested in forensic science, security studies and counterterrorism research.