Unit 3062: Forensic Biology

1. Introduction to Forensic Biology

• Overview of forensic biology and its role in criminal investigations
• Types of biological evidence: DNA, blood, hair, tissue samples
• Legal and ethical considerations in forensic biology

2. DNA Analysis in Forensic Biology

2.1 DNA Structure and Function

• Basic genetics and DNA composition

2.2 DNA Collection and Preservation

• Proper techniques for collecting biological samples
• Contamination prevention

2.3 DNA Extraction Methods

• Chemical and mechanical extraction techniques

2.4 DNA Amplification and Profiling

• Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
• Short Tandem Repeat (STR) analysis
• Mitochondrial DNA analysis

2.5 Interpretation of DNA Results

• Matching profiles
• Statistical significance and probability

3. Serology and Bloodstain Pattern Analysis

3.1 Blood as Evidence

• Composition and characteristics of blood

3.2 Blood Typing and Serological Tests

• ABO and Rh blood groups
• Presumptive and confirmatory blood tests

3.3 Bloodstain Pattern Analysis

• Types of bloodstains: passive, transfer, projected
• Interpretation of bloodstain patterns to reconstruct crime scenes
• Techniques for documenting and analyzing bloodstains

4. Forensic Entomology

• Introduction to forensic entomology
• Insect life cycles and succession on decomposing bodies
• Estimation of post-mortem interval (PMI) using insect evidence
• Collection and preservation of entomological samples

5. Forensic Botany

• Role of plant evidence in forensic investigations
• Types of botanical evidence: pollen, seeds, leaves, wood fragments
• Techniques for collection and analysis
• Case examples linking plant evidence to crime scenes

6. Forensic Anthropology

• Identification and analysis of human skeletal remains
• Estimation of age, sex, ancestry, and stature
• Trauma analysis and pathology in bones
• Techniques for forensic excavation and recovery

7. Forensic Odontology

• Use of dental records for human identification
• Bite mark analysis and comparison
• Techniques for examination and documentation of dental evidence

8. Forensic Toxicology

• Overview of toxicology in forensic science
• Types of toxic substances: drugs, alcohol, poisons
• Sample collection and analysis methods
• Interpretation of toxicological data in investigations

9. Wildlife Forensics

• Application of forensic biology to wildlife crime
• Identification of endangered species through biological evidence
• Investigation of poaching and illegal wildlife trafficking
• Molecular techniques used in wildlife forensics

10. Case Studies in Forensic Biology

• Review of landmark forensic biology cases
• Discussion of applied techniques and outcomes
• Lessons learned and best practices

Summary: This unit combines theoretical understanding with practical applications, covering a broad range of forensic biology topics, supported by detailed case studies to reinforce learning.