This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
This module comprises a range of contemporary topics covering methods of analysis and the interpretational issues associated with forensic DNA profiling. The materials take students through the evolution of forensic DNA; RFLP, Quad and the progression of DNA multiplexes to the present day and the practical issues of sample collection, processing and storage, DNA theory and practical DNA processing. Students will appreciate the difficulties associated with mixed samples and the statistical interpretation associated with both single source and mixture interpretation. The module draws upon the latest materials published by the Forensic Science Regulator and the latest quality and legal standards associated with DNA profiling. The module is contextualised throughout using a range of contemporary case studies.
Private Study: 258
Contact Hours: 42
Total: 300
Not available as an elective module.
• Experiment 1 (equivalent to 1,000 words) – 7.5%
• Experiment 2 (equivalent to 1,000 words) – 7.5%
• Experiment 3 (equivalent to 1,000 words) – 7.5%
• Experiment 4 (equivalent to 1,000 words) – 7.5%
• Experiment 5 (equivalent to 1,000 words) – 7.5%
• Experiment 6 (equivalent to 1,000 words) – 7.5%
• Detailed Literature Review Outline (1,000 words) – 15%
• Presentation (15 minutes) – 15%
• Literature Review Dissertation (5,000 words) – 25%
The University is committed to ensuring that core reading materials are in accessible electronic format in line with the Kent Inclusive Practices. The most up to date reading list for each module can be found on the university's reading list pages.
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of core scientific physical, biological, and chemical concepts, terminology, theory, units, conventions and laboratory methods in relation to forensic science and/or chemistry.
2. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of advanced theory, concepts, and practice in chemical identification techniques.
3. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of areas of chemistry (including analytical chemistry), numeracy (including data analysis and statistics), forensic investigation and interpretation (including the extraction, analysis, interpretation of physical evidence).
4. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, principles and theories relating to the subject and to apply such knowledge and understanding to the solution of qualitative and quantitative problems.
5. Demonstrate the ability to recognise and solve scientific problems at an advanced level.
6. Demonstrate the ability to recognise and implement good measurement science and practice and commonly used forensic/chemical laboratory techniques.
7. Demonstrate the ability to select the most appropriate techniques for a given analysis and to use a wide range of advanced apparatus.
8. Demonstrate skills in the safe handling of chemical materials, taking into account their physical and chemical properties, including any specific hazards associated with their use and to risk assess such hazards.
9. Demonstrate the skills required for the conduct of standard laboratory procedures involved in analytical work and in the operation of standard chemical identification instrumentation such as that used for analytical investigations and separation.
10. Demonstrate the ability to interpret data derived from laboratory observations and measurements in terms of their significance and the theory underlying them.
University of Kent makes every effort to ensure that module information is accurate for the relevant academic session and to provide educational services as described. However, courses, services and other matters may be subject to change. Please read our full disclaimer.
