FORS08012 2019 Forensic Molecular Biology

Demonstrate intellectual knowledge by explaining the principles underpinning modern forensic DNA typing.

Demonstrate professional/practical skills by being able to perform and interpret selected practical applications of forensic DNA typing methods.

Analyse, evaluate and draw conclusions from data obtained in the laboratory and/or data presented in problem solving exercises.

Communicate scientific data in an appropriate format.

This module will be delivered full‑time. Lecture delivery will be the primary mode of dissemination for module theory while practical applications will be explored during laboratory sessions.  Critical and reflective thinking will be developed through the assessment of laboratories which will involve report writing, data analysis, calculations and problem solving. This teaching and learning strategy will be augmented by both independent and directed learning strategies. Moodle will serve as the repository for educational resources (e.g., lectures, online resource information, access to journals etc) and also as a means of assessment (e.g. quizzes, uploading of lab reports, assignments, etc.).

This module will be assessed using a combination of continuous assessment of theory [MCQ x2 (15%) around week 5 and week 9] and end of semester final exam to assess the theory content of the module (35%) plus laboratory practicals (50%). Laboratory skills, report‑writing and critical analysis of results will be assessed as part of the continuous assessment aspect of this module which will be examined through the submission of lab reports, data analytics including analysing electropherograms and sequencing chromatograms plus use of population databases and the product rule for estimation of random match probabilities (50%).

A minimum of 75% attendance at laboratory sessions is required. 

Repeat continuous assessments, practical reports and/or final exam.

LO1 Demonstrate intellectual knowledge by explaining the principles underpinning modern forensic DNA typing.

Explain the principles behind the different forensic DNA typing methods.

Sample collection methods.

Explain the range of techniques used for the extraction, quantification and analysis of trace DNA.

DNA separation and detection methods.

Explain the range of analytical techniques for DNA typing including; Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), Real-time PCR, Sequencing technologies plus new and emerging technologies .

Be able to discuss forensic issues such as Degraded DNA, PCR inhibition, contamination and low copy number.

Explain the theory of minisatellites or variable number tandem repeats (VNTRs), short tandem repeats (STRs), single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs).

Explain the theory and limitations of Nuclear profiling, mini-satellites, Y chromosome DNA testing, Mitochondrial DNA analysis plus emerging DNA profiling methods.

Hardy Weinberg Theory.

Forensic Statistics including random match probabilities and use of databases.

Explore non-human forms of DNA typing.

LO2 Demonstrate professional/practical skills by being able to perform and interpret selected practical applications of forensic DNA typing methods.

Demonstrate competence in;

Sampling and storing biological evidence from a variety of sources.

Performing a range of methods for extraction of DNA from trace samples.

DNA separation and detection methods.

Performing DNA typing methods and outline and evaluate the equipment requirements for performance of the test methods.

Importance of adherence to contamination avoidance procedures by using suitable PPE and utilisation of sterile consumables and experimental controls (negatives and positives where appropriate).

LO3 Analyse, evaluate and draw conclusions from data obtained in the laboratory and/or data presented in problem solving exercises.

Demonstrate competence in the correct interpretation of analytical results e.g. analysing electropherograms and sequencing chromatograms.

Interpretation of single source profiles.

DNA mixture interpretation

Y profiling and mitochondrial DNA profiling analysis, interpretation and reporting.

Data analytics using population databases and familiarity with the product rule, Nichols and Balding Size bias correction and agreed limits for court purposes.

LO4 Communicate scientific data in an appropriate format

Analyse, collate and report on experimental data generated in practical sessions.

Critically evaluate and analyse complex biological data.

Convey and communicate both orally and in writing, knowledge of Forensic DNA Typing.