A FORENSIC science company that has worked on high-profile murder cases is moving to North Yorkshire.

Forensic Access employs 15 staff and intends to double its workforce to 30 when it moves into offices on the same site as Government agency The Food and Environment Research Agency (Fera) in Sand Hutton.

The business joins Aptamer Diagnostics, which The Press announced was also moving on to the £3 million Sand Hutton Applied Innovation Campus earlier this week.

Forensic Access, which has worked on cases including the murders of Stephen Lawrence, Vikki Thompson, Heather Barnett and the Pembrokeshire coastal path murders, also provides scientific support at a national security level and provides a range of forensic science training courses.

Adrian Belton, chief executive of Fera, said the two organisations would collaborate, with Fera announcing earlier this year it is to establish a new DNA research capability to address gaps in research into forensic DNA issues.

Mr Belton said: “Our scientists are looking forward to working alongside scientists from Forensic Access and providing them with support in areas such as entomology, trace detection, CBRN incidents and statistics when called upon.”

Roger Robson, managing director of Forensic Access, said they expected the move to significantly increase its £1 million turnover and also expand its consultancy base of about 150 experts.

Mr Robson said: “It’s very exciting to be co-locating with Fera, an internationally recognised science-based organisation engaged in many activities of direct relevance to forensic science.

“Our presence on the site will facilitate the transfer of cutting-edge knowledge and skill into forensic science which will be of great benefit to investigators and the courts, especially in more complex criminal investigations.”

Sand Hutton Applied Innovation Campus was launched in May 2011 as a site for small to medium businesses across the life sciences, biotechnology and environmental sectors and Fera said it was expected to generate 100 new jobs for the region.

Other organisations on site include the Health Protection Agency, Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency, Forsite Diagnostics and Interserve.

Coun Keith Knaggs, leader of Ryedale District Council, added: “The campus has a key role in the region’s emerging position as a science and technology hub and will bring jobs to the area.”