Introduction

In the modern era of criminal justice and forensic science, Forensic DNA Analysis stands as a cornerstone of evidence-based investigation and advanced criminal profiling. As the science of genetics continues to evolve, forensic professionals must keep pace with cutting-edge developments in DNA sequencing technologies, STR analysis, biological evidence preservation, and bioinformatics applications in crime scene investigation. Training Course on Forensic DNA Analysis: Beyond the Basics is tailored to empower forensic scientists, law enforcement personnel, legal professionals, and researchers with deep, hands-on knowledge of forensic DNA methods and their application in real-world criminal cases.

This highly specialized program delivers an intensive curriculum covering next-generation sequencing (NGS), touch DNA, mixture interpretation, low copy number (LCN) analysis, population genetics, and DNA evidence interpretation. Participants will gain practical experience through real case studies and simulations that challenge their critical thinking and decision-making skills. By the end of this course, attendees will be equipped to analyze complex DNA evidence with confidence and contribute to fair and accurate judicial outcomes.

Programme Curriculum

Forensic DNA Analysis: Beyond the Basics Training Course

Introduction

In the modern era of criminal justice and forensic science, Forensic DNA Analysis stands as a cornerstone of evidence-based investigation and advanced criminal profiling. As the science of genetics continues to evolve, forensic professionals must keep pace with cutting-edge developments in DNA sequencing technologies, STR analysis, biological evidence preservation, and bioinformatics applications in crime scene investigation. Forensic DNA Analysis: Beyond the Basics Training Course is tailored to empower forensic scientists, law enforcement personnel, legal professionals, and researchers with deep, hands-on knowledge of forensic DNA methods and their application in real-world criminal cases.

Course Objectives

Understand the principles of next-generation DNA sequencing (NGS) and its application in forensic investigations.
Apply advanced techniques in Short Tandem Repeat (STR) analysis for human identification.
Master DNA mixture deconvolution and probabilistic genotyping tools.
Analyze low template and degraded DNA samples effectively.
Explore touch DNA and trace evidence collection protocols.
Interpret Y-STR and mtDNA profiles for challenging forensic cases.
Evaluate the reliability of DNA databanks and population genetics in criminal cases.
Learn the legal standards for DNA evidence admissibility in court.
Integrate bioinformatics and software tools in forensic DNA analysis.
Investigate DNA phenotyping for predictive profiling and cold cases.
Apply chain of custody procedures and ethical considerations in DNA handling.
Conduct crime scene to courtroom simulations for DNA casework.
Implement quality assurance and validation standards in forensic DNA labs.

Target Audience

Forensic DNA analysts
Criminal investigators
Law enforcement officers
Crime laboratory technicians
Prosecutors and defense attorneys
Legal consultants in forensic science
Biomedical researchers
Criminal justice students and educators

Course Duration: 10 days

Course Modules

Module 1: Fundamentals of Forensic DNA Analysis

History and evolution of forensic DNA profiling
DNA structure and biological basics
Extraction and quantification techniques
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) basics
STR profiling fundamentals
Case Study: First criminal conviction using DNA in the UK (Colin Pitchfork case)

Module 2: Advanced STR and Allele Frequency Analysis

Capillary electrophoresis
Allelic ladder interpretation
Peak height ratios and artifacts
Stutter analysis
Off-ladder and null alleles
Case Study: U.S. v. Davis – STR misinterpretation defense strategy

Module 3: DNA Mixture Interpretation

Types of DNA mixtures
Major/minor contributor distinction
Statistical tools and likelihood ratios
Probabilistic genotyping software
Challenges in interpreting mixtures
Case Study: The Amanda Knox trial – mixed DNA evidence

Module 4: Touch DNA and Trace Evidence

Collection of epithelial cell samples
Contamination prevention techniques
Sensitivity of touch DNA
Issues with sample transfer
Use in sexual assault cases
Case Study: The JonBenét Ramsey case – touch DNA breakthrough

Module 5: Low Copy Number (LCN) and Degraded Samples

Understanding LCN and degraded DNA
Increasing amplification cycles
Risk of allele drop-in/drop-out
Interpretation best practices
Reporting guidelines for LCN
Case Study: LCN DNA in the Phantom of Heilbronn case

Module 6: Y-STR and Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA)

Characteristics and inheritance patterns
Advantages in certain case types
Application in familial searching
mtDNA sequencing challenges
Use in historical investigations
Case Study: Identification of Romanov family remains

Module 7: DNA Phenotyping and Forensic Genealogy

Predictive DNA markers for appearance
Phenotypic trait databases
Familial searching techniques
Ethical and privacy concerns
Cold case investigations
Case Study: The Golden State Killer capture using genealogy

Module 8: Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS)

Advantages over traditional STR
Sequencing workflows and platforms
SNP panels and targeted sequencing
Mixed DNA interpretation via NGS
Integration into forensic workflows
Case Study: NGS in the Mass Graves of Kosovo

Module 9: Bioinformatics in DNA Analysis

DNA data processing and alignment
Use of forensic databases (CODIS, GEDmatch)
Software tools for DNA interpretation
Data visualization and reporting
Automation and artificial intelligence
Case Study: Ancestry tracking in war crime investigations

Module 10: Legal and Ethical Aspects of DNA Evidence

Daubert and Frye standards
Chain of custody documentation
Consent and DNA collection laws
Rights and ethical boundaries
Expert testimony preparation
Case Study: Maryland v. King – legality of DNA collection

Module 11: Crime Scene Management and Sample Collection

Scene security and contamination control
Proper sample labeling
Storage and transport protocols
Cross-contamination risks
Integration with other forensic evidence
Case Study: Boston Strangler case and scene mishandling

Module 12: Quality Assurance and Laboratory Validation

Accreditation standards (ISO/IEC 17025)
Internal validation vs. developmental
Proficiency testing
Laboratory auditing
Documentation and reproducibility
Case Study: Houston crime lab scandal – QA lessons learned

Module 13: Cold Case and Missing Persons Investigations

DNA databanks for missing persons
Challenges in identifying aged samples
Kinship analysis techniques
Reopening cases with new methods
Collaborations with NGOs
Case Study: Identification of 9/11 victims using mtDNA

Module 14: DNA Evidence in Courtroom Practice

Preparing expert witnesses
Simplifying scientific testimony
Dealing with cross-examination
Visual aids for juries
Handling prosecutorial bias
Case Study: O.J. Simpson trial – impact of DNA testimony

Module 15: Simulation & Final Assessment

Mock crime scene processing
Lab analysis and reporting
Mock courtroom trial
Peer-review of casework
Comprehensive feedback
Case Study: Simulated case based on combined real-life scenarios

Training Methodology

Interactive lectures and visual presentations
Hands-on laboratory sessions with real DNA samples
Case study analysis and group discussion
Mock crime scene and courtroom simulations
Assessment quizzes and final evaluation
Access to forensic DNA software tools and databases

Register as a group from 3 participants for a Discount

Send us an email: info@fineskilltrainingcenter.org or call +254769199797

Certification

Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with a globally- recognized certificate.

Tailor-Made Course

We also offer tailor-made courses based on your needs.

Key Notes

a. The participant must be conversant with English.

b. Upon completion of training the participant will be issued with an Authorized Training Certificate

c. Course duration is flexible and the contents can be modified to fit any number of days.

d. The course fee includes facilitation training materials, 2 coffee breaks, buffet lunch and A Certificate upon successful completion of Training.

e. One-year post-training support Consultation and Coaching provided after the course.

f. Payment should be done at least a week before commence of the training, to Fineskill Training Center account, as indicated in the invoice so as to enable us prepare better for you.

Skills & Software Covered

Forensic DNA Analysis Laboratory Techniques Evidence Handling Law Enforcement Case Studies

Programme Fee

Duration: 10 Days

Method: Online or Physical

Online Price: $2,000

Physical Price: $3,000

Certification: Accredited Certificate

View Available Dates 📄 Download Course Outline (PDF)

Available Sessions

Location

Month

Year

Oct 19 2026

19 Oct — 30 Oct 2026

💻 Online / Virtual session

Online $2,000