CHE-20021 - Forensic Genetics
Coordinator: Victoria Cartwright Tel: +44 1782 7 33584
Lecture Time: See Timetable...
Level: Level 5
Credits: 15
Study Hours: 150
School Office: 01782 734921

Programme/Approved Electives for 2020/21

None

Available as a Free Standing Elective

No

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2020/21

This is a core module of the principal Forensic Science course at level 5. This module will provide the essential background knowledge of the molecular tools used for identifying individuals by DNA profiling and to build on this to describe some of the ways in which these tools are used in Forensic Science. The principle concepts in DNA profiling will be explored and the students understanding of human identification will be extended. It will emphasise the importance of DNA profiling and its application in forensic investigations and of the presentation of DNA evidence in court. This includes a mock-court cross-examination exercise.

Aims
This module aims to provide the essential background knowledge of the molecular tools used for identifying individuals by DNA profiling and to build on this to describe some of the ways in which these tools are used in Forensic Science. The principle concepts in DNA profiling will be explored with the aim of extending the students understanding of human identification, its importance and application in the forensic context, analytical techniques and processes, population genetics and the presentation of DNA evidence in court.

Talis Aspire Reading List
Any reading lists will be provided by the start of the course.
http://lists.lib.keele.ac.uk/modules/che-20021/lists

Intended Learning Outcomes

explain the principles and significance of nucleic acid hybridisation: 1,2
describe and explain the development and application of LTDNA-typing and its advantages and limitations regarding degradation and contamination: 1,3
1,2,3
apply a working knowledge of population genetics to calculate profile frequencies, evaluate their statistical significance and present this information appropriately as an expert witness in court: 1,2,3
critically evaluate the significance of different sources of DNA and appropriate approaches to collection, storage and analysis of the samples with reference to contamination avoidance procedures: 1
differentiate and critically assess types of polymorphism and DNA lineage markers and their importance in a forensic context: 3
communicate the outcomes of a short scientific study under oral examination in the court context: 1,2,3
explain the principles of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), DNA sequencing and DNA profiling and their application in Forensic Science:

Study hours

Lectures 10 hours of asynchronous recordings
Laboratory Classes 10 hours
Tutorials/problems classes 10 hours
Independent study 120


School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment

1: Open Book Assessment weighted 50%
End of module open book assessment
2500 words, 4 long questions based on the use of DNA evidence in case scenarios.

2: Assignment weighted 30%
Coursework portfolio
1500 words incorporating a number of assessments including problem sheet calculations, a proforma and multiple choice questions.

3: Oral Presentation weighted 20%
Case study exercise
The student will complete a short report (~500 words) based on the examination of DNA evidence. This will be followed by a formal oral cross-examination.