Forensic Biology (5 ECTS)

Objective

The student will
• understand the basic concepts of biology and genetics in forensic analysis
• develop skills in collecting, processing and analysing biological evidence
• understand the principles of DNA analysis and its importance in identifying individuals and establishing links between evidence and suspects
• learn how to examine batch samples, bloodstains, hair and fibres and other biological forensic evidence
• learn biological laboratory techniques used in food fraud analysis
• gain practical experience in a laboratory environment in carrying out biological analyses and interpreting the results
• develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills in the analysis of biological samples.

Content

The course provides an overview of forensic science from a biological perspective.

Forensic science
• Activities at the crime scene and collection of crime samples

Biological forensic evidence
• Blood and bloodstain analysis
• Semen and other body fluids
• Human and animal hair
-• Preservation and storage of biological evidence

Forensic DNA analysis
• Introduction to population genetics and heredity
• DNA amplification techniques; polymerase chain reaction (PCR and qPCR)
• DNA profiling
• DNA profiling and statistical analysis
• Mitochondrial DNA analysis
• DNA fingerprinting techniques for food authentication
• Case studies using DNA evidence

Serology and topical issues
• Serological testing methods for blood typing and antigen-antibody reactions
• Insect, plant and microbial evidence in forensic investigations

Evaluation scale

0-5

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1)

The student
• demonstrates an understanding of basic concepts in biology and genetics in the context of forensic analysis
• understands the issues involved in the collection of biological evidence, and a basic understanding of sample handling and analysis
• understands the principles of DNA analysis.

Assessment criteria, good (3)

The student
• has a solid understanding of the basic concepts of biology and genetics in the context of forensic analysis
• is able to collect, process and analyse biological evidence
• is familiar with the principles of DNA analysis and its role in identifying individuals and establishing links between evidence and suspects
• understands the biological techniques used in the analysis of food fraud
• is able to perform laboratory analyses of biological forensic samples and interpret the results.

Assessment criteria, excellent (5)

The student
• demonstrates an excellent understanding of basic concepts of biology and genetics in the context of forensic analysis
• has an excellent command of the collection, processing and analysis of biological evidence
• knows how DNA analysis can be used to identify individuals and establish links between evidence and suspects
• has a good command of laboratory analysis of biological samples and an excellent ability to interpret results
• demonstrates advanced critical thinking and problem solving skills.

Assessment criteria, approved/failed

The student
• demonstrates an understanding of basic concepts in biology and genetics in the context of forensic analysis
• understands the issues involved in the collection of biological evidence, and a basic understanding of sample handling and analysis
• understands the principles of DNA analysis.

Qualifications

Gene Technology and Basics in Bioinformatics