FSCI 3120U – Forensic Biology

This course provides a comprehensive study of molecular techniques and various casework applications involved in the field of forensic biology. Lecture and laboratory topics concentrate on the detailed steps of DNA extraction, quantification, amplification, detection, and DNA profile analysis. Laboratories follow protocols used for autosomal and Y chromosome Short Tandem Repeat (STR) analysis of human biological samples, but lectures also delve into Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs), mitochondrial DNA analysis, as well as nonhuman DNA testing. In addition to discussions of technology, a significant portion of the course deals with interpretation of casework STR profiles and associated artefacts, as well as issues surrounding quality assurance in laboratories. The objective of this course is to prepare students for the tasks expected in a forensic biology laboratory along with the comprehensive knowledge of techniques and the chemistry so that students have the ability to troubleshoot when complications arise.
Credit hours: 3
Lecture hours: 3
Laboratory hours: 3
Prerequisite(s): FSCI 2010U and BIOL 2020U and BIOL 2030U and (BIOL 2040U or BIOL 2080U) and enrolment in third year of the Forensic Science program
Credit restriction(s): FSCI 3020U
Experiential learning: Yes