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BIO359 - Forensic DNA Analysis

Overview

This unit provides a comprehensive overview of the technical and analytical features of Forensic DNA Analysis, also known as 'forensic biology'. It is strongly focused on how these methods are applied to forensic case work.

Offerings

• Teaching period code: Semester 1-S1
  • Location: Murdoch
  • Attendance mode: Face to Face
  • Start year: 2025
  • End year: Ongoing
  • Self enrol: Yes

Requisites

Prerequisite

• BIO202: Molecular Biology I (4 cp)
• OR
• BIO212: Genetic Engineering (4 cp)
• OR
• BIO282: Molecular Biology (3 cp)

Exclusion

• BIO373: Forensic Investigation (4 cp)
• OR
• BIO313: Forensic DNA Analysis (4 cp)

Learning Outcomes

1. Evaluate, analyse and interpret DNA profiles within an integrated statistical framework relevant to forensic cases and use these in synthesising and compiling written forensic casework reports.
2. Record item details; indicate analysis and interpret forensic information in a format appropriate for presentation suitable for court presentation.
3. Consistently display safe, systematic & accurate laboratory practice.
4. Assess and interpret DNA-based results relevant to human forensics and animal product identification, including illustrative examples.
5. Contrast and interpret suitable approaches that could be used in a forensic environment to analyse human and non-human DNA.

Unit Content

This unit has been designed to provide a comprehensive overview of the technical and analytical features of Forensic DNA Analysis. The unit will cover:

• Item identification
• Molecular biology of DNA and STR's
• DNA profiling ('DNA fingerprinting')
• Advanced PCR
• Complex human STR interpretation
• Y-STR profiling
• Phylogenetic and statistical interpretation
• Wildlife forensics
• Degraded DNA
• SNP biology
• PCR contamination
• Mass disaster identification
• New technologies in forensics

Unit Details

• Unit version: 09
• Version start date: 01/07/2024
• Owning college: College of Environmental and Life Sciences
• Owning school: Medical, Molecular and Forensic Sciences
• Credit points: 3