Research in forensic genetics

At the Section of Forensic Genetics, our research focus on forensic genetics and inherited diseases. The research serves various purposes.

The purpose of the forensic genetics research is to improve the methods we already use to investigate DNA in identification and crime cases, and to develop new methods for forensic genetic use: Our research is focused on:

• Identification: Analysis of DNA markers and methods for use in crime, paternity, and relationship cases.
• Massively parallel sequencing (next generation sequencing): Development of new analytical methods for use in forensic genetics, including analyses of DNA, RNA, and methylated DNA.
• Population genetics: Analyzing population dynamics and how these may influence case work reporting.

The purpose of our research in inherited diseases is to identify genetic or epigenetic variations associated with specific diseases, which may help explain a sudden and unexpected death. Our research is focused on:

• Sudden unexpected cardiac death (molecular autopsy): Identification of epigenetic or genetic variations that may assist the autopsy in identifying the cause of death.