Trace DNA

Touch DNA is a potentially powerful sample type for forensic casework, but is challenging to work with due to low quantity, variable deposition amounts, and fundamental questions regarding stability over time. In this webinar we describe best-practices and initial results related to comprehensive studies of the stability of touch DNA after exposure to different environmental conditions.

This webinar was presented by the NIJ Forensic Technology Center of Excellence on March 11, 2021.

Dr. Julie L. Valentine introduces the application of touch DNA in sexual assault cases through a case study. A literature review on touch DNA is summarized to provide contextual information and research on touch DNA analysis findings in groping sexual assault cases is discussed. The webinar concludes with recommendations for multidisciplinary partners to collect, submit, and analyze evidence in sexual assault cases for touch DNA.

This webinar was hosted by the NIJ Forensic Technology Center of Excellence on April 18, 2023.