NIST Invites Forensic DNA Analysts to Webinar on Mixture Interpretation

Forensic DNA analysts are invited to participate in a webinar on DNA mixture interpretation on Wednesday, May 28, from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. ET. The National Institute of Standards and Technology is sponsoring the webinar.

Forensic DNA experts from local, national and international agencies will give presentations to address challenges in interpreting DNA mixtures. Forensic laboratories are increasingly analyzing samples with low levels of DNA such as evidence from burglaries and other property crimes.

Six presenters will address specific challenges that arise in interpreting mixed DNA samples. The workshop is intended for anyone interested in probabilistic genotyping software packages to aid in the evaluation of mixed DNA profiles, including DNA analysts, DNA technical leaders, laboratory directors, attorneys and consultants. The presentations will be aimed toward an audience with experience in DNA profile interpretation, statistical calculations and population genetics.

Presenters include:

• Susan Berdine, Denver Police Department Crime Laboratory, who will speak on Lab Retriever software;
• Todd Bille, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, who will speak on STRmix software;
• Mike Coble, NIST Biomolecular Measurement Division, who will give an overview of probabilistic genotyping;
• Ate Kloosterman, Netherlands Forensic Institute, who will speak on LRmix software;
• Craig O'Connor, New York Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, who will speak on the Forensic Statistical Tool software;
• Charlotte Word, consultant, who will speak on issues and examples of complex mixtures.

This webinar is the first in a series of free webinars on topics of interest to DNA analysts. Please register at online (click on "online registration" in the right column). Registrants will receive email instructions on how to join the webinar.