[FG] Forensic Genetics

At the Department of Forensic Genetics within the Institute of Forensic Medicine, we analyze biological material for legal authorities, identifying DNA profiles from traces and suspects, and determining the identities of deceased individuals. We also investigate biological relationships for both legal entities and private clients, conducting classical paternity tests as well as more complex kinship analyses spanning multiple generations.

Our research group focuses on developing new technologies and improving existing forensic genetic methodologies. Current projects include (1) optimizing biological material collection, such as touch DNA sampling with the mobile DNA-Buster; (2) advance state-of-the-art techniques for separating mixed DNA traces into their individual components using the DEPArray™ technology; (3) integrating RNA-based methods for identifying body fluids alongside DNA workflows to improve crime reconstruction; and (4) advancing DNA analysis for phenotype, ancestry, and age prediction using next-generation sequencing (NGS).