Forensic Biotechnology: STR Typing, PCR and Capillary Electrophoresis

This test covers the core molecular techniques used in modern forensic DNA analysis. Questions span the principles of polymerase chain reaction and thermal cycling, the design and interpretation of commercial multiplex STR kits, the CODIS core loci expanded in 2017, and the mechanics of capillary electrophoresis as a separation and detection platform. Candidates will work through electropherogram interpretation scenarios including stutter artefacts, allele drop-out, peak-height ratio thresholds, pull-up fluorescence, and off-ladder alleles. Sex typing via the amelogenin locus is also assessed. Scenarios are drawn from casework contexts encountered in accredited forensic laboratories internationally, including mixture interpretation challenges and quality-control decisions. The test targets practitioners and advanced students who can apply technical knowledge to realistic forensic data rather than recall definitions alone.