Capacity enhancement

The goal of NIJ's FY09 Forensic DNA Backlog Reduction Program is to assist eligible States and units of local government to reduce forensic DNA sample turnaround time, increase the throughput of public DNA laboratories, and reduce DNA forensic casework backlogs. These improvements are critical to preventing future DNA backlogs and to helping the criminal justice system use the full potential of DNA technology. Eligible States...

The Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Grants Program (the Coverdell program) awards grants to States and units of local government to help improve the quality and timeliness of forensic science and medical examiner services. Among other things, funds may be used to eliminate a backlog in the analysis of forensic evidence and to train and employ forensic laboratory personnel, as needed, to eliminate such a...

NIJ is seeking applications from States wishing to receive funding to help defray the costs associated with postconviction DNA testing of forcible rape, murder, and nonnegligent manslaughter cases in which actual innocence might be demonstrated. Funds may be used to review such postconviction cases and to locate and analyze biological evidence associated with these cases.

NIJ is seeking applications for funding under the fiscal year 2009 Convicted Offender and/or Arrestee DNA Backlog Reduction Program. This program furthers the Department's mission by offering an opportunity for States with existing laboratories that conduct analysis of convicted offender and/or arrestee DNA samples collected by States pursuant to applicable law for databasing purposes ("DNA database samples") to reduce their backlog of such samples through...

Note: Deadline extended from March 23. NIJ is seeking proposals from States and units of local government for projects to improve the efficiency and capacity of public forensic DNA laboratories through the development and adoption of an improved laboratory process. Eligible public forensic DNA laboratories may submit proposals for projects that will increase capacity to meet the mission-critical needs of these laboratories within the scope...