CHS - 6535
Forensic DNA Analysis of Biological Materials
Dr. Jack Ballantyne
jballant@mail.ucf.edu

Course Content

This course provides the student with an in-depth understanding of a number of advanced topics which are relevant to contemporary forensic DNA analysis. Topics covered include DNA biochemistry (structure, function, genotoxic damage and repair and the molecular basis of mutations), the molecular genetics of DNA polymorphisms (mini- and micro-satellites, autosomal and Y-STRs, and mt DNA), sex determination and sexing strategies, analysis techniques (gel and capillary gel electrophoresis, PCR and sequencing) and emerging technologies (DNA chips).

Course Objectives

• A deeper theoretical understanding of the basis of DNA typing technology which hopefully will enhance the student's technical problem-solving skills and better prepare him/her for expert witness presentations.
• The ability to read, comprehend and critically evaluate technical papers from primary sources.
• The use of the Internet as an efficient means of retrieving relevant information and as a research tool.

Texts

• Articles

  The Course is based upon required readings from a number of original sources and review articles.

• Book

  There is no suitable textbook for this Course