DNA Forensics Technical Working Group

It is essential that NIJ properly focuses its research and development efforts so that the products developed are of the highest value to the practitioner community. Through the formation of Technology Working Groups (TWGs), NIJ reaches out to the practitioner community to identify, discuss, and prioritize operational needs and requirements. These needs and requirements will help validate NIJ's planned and ongoing research and development activities, and will help ensure that future technologies meet practitioner-driven needs.

Technology Needs Identified by the DNA Forensics Technology Working Group

High Priority Needs:

  • Y-STR database coordination and management
  • Automated sperm searches
  • Body fluid/ cell type identification
  • Preliminary genetic differentiation
  • Enhancement of information to assist in DNA evidence collection
  • Physical separation of cells
  • DNA repair
  • Method to remove contaminates from items such as tips, tubes, etc.

Medium Priority Needs:

  • Physical characteristics
  • Species determination
  • Non-destructive method for DNA isolation
  • Understanding and overcoming PCR inhibition
  • Novel methods for DNA profiling

Low Priority Needs

  •  Macro screening of biological samples found at crime scenes
  • Age determination of stains
  • Twin differentiation
  • Fingerprint powder brush contamination
  • Coordination and management of autosomal SNP population database

Overview of the DNA Forensics Technology Working Group

  • The DNA Forensics TWG meets twice each year (Fall and Spring) in Washington, DC for one and a half days. The first DNA Forensics TWG meeting was held April 2005.
  • The DNA Forensics TWG is facilitated jointly by NIJ's Investigative and Forensic Sciences Division and NIST's Office of Law Enforcement Standards.
  • The DNA Forensics TWG members include 18 practitioners from State, local, and Federal labs as well as private industry.
  • During the TWG meetings, input provided by TWG members on projects in NIJ's current DNA R&D portfolio.
  • Presentations are given by DNA R&D grantees followed by feedback from the TWG practitioners.
  • Technology needs and requirements are identified and documented.
  • Discussion of DNA-related activities being performed by Forensic Resource Network (FRN) partners (e.g., National Forensic Science Technology Center) to support the DNA practitioner community.
  • Focus groups to address topics related to NIJ efforts (e.g., the use of dna.gov as a resource for forensic scientists).
To learn more about the DNA Forensics Technical Working Group or its activities, please contact:

Lois A. Tully
Deputy Chief
Investigative and Forensic Science Division
National Institute of Justice
Office of Justice Programs
202-307-0694