The New York State forensics community recently gathered at Syracuse University for a significant training event focused on Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS). This method of DNA analysis is being considered by forensic laboratories to improve the interpretation of complex DNA evidence from crime scenes.
The training session marked a milestone, as last year NGS was used in a court case in Kern County, California, providing critical insights into a murder investigation. The Kern Regional Crime Lab analyzed over 150 genetic markers from an evidence sample using NGS, compared to approximately 24 with previous methods. This advancement opens new possibilities for forensic science in the United States.
Zach Galluzzo from Opentrons demonstrated an NGS workstation during the weeklong session that included experts from Qiagen, Opentrons, NicheVision, and Nimagen. These professionals collaborated with faculty from Syracuse University’s Forensic and National Security Sciences Institute and instructors from other New York forensic entities.
Michael Marciano and Natalie Novotna led the training alongside students who participated in practice runs before the sessions. “They also assisted in the lab during the actual sessions and sat in during the lectures,” said Marciano.
The training aims to bring consistency across New York’s decentralized forensic lab systems. Kathleen Corrado stated, “We’re hoping that this training brings more consistency to the implementation and execution of NGS by crime labs throughout the state.”
This initiative is part of Syracuse University’s commitment to preparing students with skills applicable to real-world forensic applications. The program offers hands-on experience with advanced technologies that are essential for careers in crime labs.
Corrado emphasized collaboration as central to their mission: “These invaluable partnerships offer our students meaningful opportunities to engage with and learn from leading professionals.”
Marciano concluded by highlighting future opportunities: “This will be the first among many training opportunities that Syracuse University’s Forensics Institute is able to offer.”
