The goal of this 3 credit hour course is to provide students with a basic understanding of DNA and forensic DNA analysis. Topics will include basic DNA principles such as: DNA structure and function, chromosomes, genes, genetic markers, population variation, DNA polymorphisms, and methods of DNA analysis. This course will include the history of DNA typing, and its use in human identification and how evidence is collected and analyzed for use in a court of law. Also, DNA extraction and quantification, forensic DNA typing systems, such as markers and biology of Short Tandem Repeats (STRs) and Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs), plus Y chromosome DNA testing and Mitochondrial DNA analysis will be discussed. Forensic issues and complicating factors like multiple ontributors, DNA degradation, extraneous substances, PCR inhibition, and low copy number amplifications will be explained.

This course will benefit students of anthropology, biology, criminal justice, entomology, forensic sciencegenetics, microbiology, and a broad audience of adult learners.

For more information, contact Dr. John Foster, Department of Entomology, jfoster1@unl.edu, or 472-8686.