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Group Investigation in Epithelial Cell Biology Fall 2007

Bio361

 

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Forensic Serology Seminar

Fall 2006
Fall'06

 
Forensic Serology is the study of blood, semen, saliva, or sweat in matters pertaining to the law.  Using case studies as backdrops, this seminar will focus on the science behind the courthouse headlines as we discuss the biological theory and analytical techniques that provide the basis for forensic serology. Topics will include the composition of blood and semen; the molecular basis for enzymatic and antibody based analytical techniques, DNA analysis (RFLPs, VNTRs and SNPs), modes of inheritance of different markers (nuclear or mitochondrial DNA and protein), and identification of remains.  We will discuss the strengths and weaknesses of applying these techniques to samples collected in ‘real life’ situations and the potential ethical implications of DNA databases like CODIS.  In addition to participating in discussions of technical literature, students will participate in debates, and give multiple oral presentations to the class and to public audiences. Contact Dr. Bernd (kabernd@davidson.edu) for more information or to schedule a meeting to receive permission to register for this class.

Course information
Assignment Explanations and Grading
Links
Syllabus
Readings and due dates

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Blood typing and the Ochterlony (double diffusion) test

FS'05 students present 'The Case of the Kidnapped Co-ed' to Boy Scouts
November 1, 2005
(Images by Bill Giduz)

 

Previous seminar topics and projects
Briefest guide to Powerpoint

© Copyright 2006 Department of Biology, Davidson College, Davidson, NC 28035.
Send comments, questions, and suggestions to: kabernd@davidson.edu