AUS hosts seminar on the use of DNA profiling in forensic science

American University of Sharjah (AUS) held a seminar entitled "The Use of DNA Profiling in Forensic Science," which focused on the use of DNA profiling in criminal investigations and its development throughout the years, on Thursday, April 30, 2015.

The seminar, organized by the Department of Biology, Chemistry and Environmental Sciences, was conducted by Dr. Ahmed Almarzooqi from the Abu Dhabi Police College, former Head of the UAE National Database Center and former member of the Interpol DNA MEG.

Dr. Almarzooqi presented the types of criminal cases that forensic DNA labs in the UAE receive. He noted that since the use of DNA profiling began, many serious cases have been solved by using National DNA Databases, which hold millions of profiles. He noted that DNA data is also used in civil cases, such as paternity and kinships testing, as well as to identify individuals in mass disasters.

Comparing the different techniques used in the past with those used in the present, Dr. Almarzooqi stated, "In the past, DNA techniques used to take weeks in order to obtain reliable results; however, today high sensitivity results can be obtained within a few hours."

Dr. Almarzooqi also explained to the audience components of DNA and the mechanism behind the use of DNA profiling in forensic science.

The seminar was attended by members of AUS community, including students and faculty members interested in the topic.