Curriculum Information

The \\\"Advanced Forensic Biology and DNA\\\" module is a cornerstone of the MSc in Analytical and Forensic Science, offering in-depth exploration of modern forensic DNA analysis and biological evidence interpretation. Students will gain advanced theoretical understanding and practical skills in cutting-edge techniques and data analysis tools. The module covers the entire forensic process, from evidence collection and preservation to complex data analysis and interpretation, ensuring students can critically evaluate and present DNA evidence in investigative and judicial contexts.

A strong emphasis is placed on legal, ethical, and quality assurance frameworks, including accreditation standards, chain of custody, and data privacy, preparing students to operate within professional and regulatory boundaries. Through practical exercises, case studies, and simulated courtroom scenarios, students develop the ability to communicate complex findings effectively in both written reports and oral testimony.

This module directly supports the course aims by enabling students to apply advanced analytical techniques, uphold the integrity and admissibility of evidence, and meet legal and professional standards. By engaging with contemporary technologies and real-world casework, students are empowered to contribute confidently and ethically to the evolving field of forensic science, both in the UK and internationally.

1.     Introduction to Forensic DNA Profiling 

·        Overview of Forensic DNA Profiling: 

o   History and development of forensic DNA profiling 

o   The role of DNA evidence in criminal investigations 

·        Techniques and Methodologies for DNA profiling: 

o   DNA extraction, isolation and purification 

o   DNA quantitation 

o   PCR amplification - STR (Short Tandem Repeat) analysis 

o   Capillary electrophoresis 

·        Applications of DNA Profiling: 

o   Crime scene investigation 

o   Identification of remains 

o   Paternity testing and kinship analysis 

2.     Supplementary Markers in Forensic DNA Analysis 

·        Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs): 

o   Role of SNPs in forensic identification 

o   Comparison with STR markers 

·        Y-Chromosome and Mitochondrial DNA: 

o   Applications of Y-chromosome DNA analysis in paternal lineage tracing 

o   Mitochondrial DNA in maternal lineage and highly degraded samples 

3.     Kinship Testing 

·        Understanding Kinship Testing: 

o   Basic principles of relationship testing (paternity, sibling, grandparent) 

o   Use of DNA markers in establishing biological relationships 

·        Methodologies and Applications: 

o   Autosomal markers vs. Y-chromosome and mitochondrial DNA in kinship testing 

o   Case studies in legal and familial contexts 

4.     Data Analysis and Interpretation of DNA Evidence 

·        Statistical Methods in DNA Profiling: 

o   Random match probability 

o   Population databases and statistical significance 

·        DNA Mixture Analysis: 

o   Approaches to interpreting complex DNA mixtures 

o   Software tools for mixture interpretation (e.g., STRmix) 

o   Deconvolution and peak interpretation techniques 

5.     Forensic DNA Databases and Applications 

·        National DNA Databases (NDNAD): 

o   Structure and role of national databases in forensic science 

o   Linkage between crime scene evidence and criminal suspects 

·        Specialised Forensic DNA Databases: 

o   Staff Elimination Database (SED) 

o   Contamination Elimination Database (CED) 

o   DNA databases for missing persons and cold cases 

6.     Alternate Matrices in Forensic DNA Analysis 

·        Types of Alternate Matrices: 

o   Blood, semen, saliva, hair, and environmental samples 

o   Non-traditional samples: fingernails, bones, teeth, and touch DNA 

·        Challenges and Considerations: 

o   Collection and preservation of alternate matrices 

o   Detection and analysis of DNA from degraded or low-yield samples 

7.     Body Fluid Identification: Presumptive Testing and RNA Analysis 

·        Presumptive Testing for Body Fluids: 

o   Chemical and immunological tests for blood, semen, saliva, and urine 

o   Limitations and reliability of presumptive tests 

·        RNA Analysis in Forensics: 

o   Use of RNA as a marker in body fluid identification 

o   Challenges with RNA-based testing in forensic biology 

8.     Advances in Forensic DNA Technologies: Massively Parallel Sequencing (MPS) 

·        Massively Parallel Sequencing (MPS) in Forensic DNA Analysis: 

o   Principles and workflow of MPS 

o   Advantages and challenges of MPS in forensic applications 

·        Applications of MPS: 

o   Full genome sequencing in forensic investigations – microbial forensics and metagenomics 

o   Targeted sequencing and marker panels for forensic purposes 

9.     Legal and Ethical Aspects of Forensic DNA 

·        Legal Framework: 

o   Chain of custody and legal standards for DNA evidence 

o   Use of DNA evidence in courtrooms 

·        Ethical and Privacy Considerations: 

o   Consent and data privacy issues 

o   The implications of database inclusion and familial searching 

o   Discrimination and ethical concerns surrounding DNA testing 

10. Accreditation and Quality Assurance in Forensic DNA 

·        Accreditation Standards: 

o   International standards (ISO 17025, ISO 18385) for forensic laboratories 

o   The role of accreditation bodies (e.g., UKAS and The Forensic Science Regulator) 

·        Quality Control and Assurance: 

o   Best practices in laboratory procedures and documentation 

o   Anti-contamination procedures and ensuring the integrity of forensic DNA evidence