BIO.5057 Forensic Biology
This course will introduce students to Forensic Biology, its history and overview of the biological evidence and techniques used in forensic science. Topics will include serological study, hair and fiber analysis, fingerprinting, pathology used in identification and trauma to the human body, blood spatter patterns, and toxicology. Students will learn basic genetics and population genetics as it applies to forensic biology. The course will also include an examination of the techniques used in recovery, replication and analysis of DNA that contributes to DNA profiling, and an overview of population variability and demographics. Introduction to basic skeletal anatomy and to the use of recovered skeletal materials to assess a deceased individual's age, sex, height, ancestry, time of death, bone trauma, and disease will also be covered. Additional topics include techniques for recovering human skeletal remains, reconstruction of faces, genetic identification, and medicolegal contexts of forensic anthropology will be included.