Course Identification

The course will give student a basic understanding of the molecular techniques currently utilized by the majority of forensic laboratories performing forensic DNA analysis.

The following topics will be reviewed:

1. [Introduction to forensic science - The DNA revolution
2. Collection, marking and analysis of evidence samples from crime scenes.
3. DNA extractions.
4. STR profiling: Multiplex PCR; Capillary electrophoresis
5. Forensic DNA typing and interpretation.
6. Population genetics and statistic
7. Human remains identification.

Upon successful completion of the course students will be able to:

1. Describe the main forces that are in charge on a criminal investigation, and the specific role of the forensic laboratories within it.
2. Decode the DNA profile as a unique marker for human identification the DNA structures that allow to differentiate individuals, and the limitation of this ability.
3. Assess the use of different methodologies for identification of biological material traces of blood, sperm and saliva as well as for DNA extraction and amplification.
4. Analyze the process of decision-making in uncertainty conditions which is typical to crime investigations.
5. Present the conflict between the need for human rights in compare to the need for databases (DNA or others) which is highly relevant in most societies today.

[1] Butler J. Biology, Technology, and Genetics of Str Markers:Forensic DNA Typing

[2] CSI