FORS 6601 - Forensic Genetic Genealogy

This course will cover the use of genetic genealogy to provide investigative leads in criminal investigations of violent crimes and unidentified human remains. This course will provide an in-depth analysis of the scientific methods used to create the genetic profiles used to establish genetic relationships, the functions of genetic genealogy databases approved for law enforcement investigations, and the analysis of genetic data to identify genetic relatedness between individuals. Topics will include but are not limited to autosomal DNA testing, Y-chromosomal testing, mitochondrial DNA testing, X-chromosomal testing, and a broad selection of third-party genetic genealogy tools used to analyze genetic data. The ethical implications of genetic genealogy and the current laws and policies governing its use in forensic investigations will also be explored. 3 credits.