BTEC 4460 - Methods in Forensic DNA Analysis

1 Class Hours 6 Laboratory Hours 3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite: A grade of “C” or better in BIOL 3300.
This laboratory-intensive, course will introduce students to the techniques currently used in Forensic DNA Profiling by crime labs in Georgia and across the country. Laboratory activities will include extraction and quantification of DNA from your own cheek cells, and state-of-the-art PCR-based DNA profiling methods. The course is designed to allow students to experience the full range of activities associated with the various procedures. Activities will include solution preparation, sample processing, record keeping, data interpretation, and report generation. Discussions will include the historical development of previously used DNA profiling methods, alternative procedures employed in some laboratories, and the ongoing development of new DNA profiling methods. Legal issues associated with quality control, frequency estimates, sample condition, chain of custody, and admissibility will also be presented.