Forensic Biology (8379.2)

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Unit Outlines

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• Semester 2, 2015, ON-CAMPUS, BRUCE (140909) - View

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Syllabus

The major focus of this unit is the forensic application of molecular biology, in particular the use of DNA profiling and related techniques, together with techniques that detect protein and immunological variation, to individualise biological samples. Special emphasis is given to forensic applications of molecular biology, especially PCR, DNA profiling and DNA sequencing. Students will also develop the basic skills employed in the isolation, purification, and analysis of nucleic acids.

Learning Outcomes

DESCRIPTION:

1. Express an opinion in the field of forensic biology, in the form of a written case report, with confidence and clarity. Forensic biologists are often called to give evidence in court.

2. Collate, analyse, manipulate, evaluate, interpret and present information and numerical data from forensic biology case studies. As a forensic biologist, you will be called upon to write reports that could be used as court records or form the basis for prosecution or defence

3. Select and use appropriate information and communication technologies to retrieve, manipulate and present data from forensic biology case studies. This will include the use of spreadsheets and digital outputs from analytical instruments

4. Implement and evaluate strategies for the resolution of problems in forensic biology. You will need to select appropriate analytical techniques to examine evidence.

5. Work with others as part of a group. You will need to allocate tasks among group members to complete a case report for a forensic biology case study.

6. Have the ability to cope with uncertainty. Expert opinion in a court room is always challenged and you will need to be able to communicate uncertainty in your findings.

7. Act responsibly, ethically and with integrity in the context of forensic biology. Court room evidence must be as unbiased as possible with rigorous chain-of-custody requirements for handling of exhibits

8. Accept service to the community as the primary purpose for a professional life in forensic science. Your role as a forensic biologist is ultimately to use the scientific method to answer legal questions

Assessment Items

Contact Hours

Up to five hours per week.

Prerequisites

Permission of Unit Convener.