BL4221 Forensic Biology
(BL4221 online module handbook version )
image: Image showing the results of a genetic analysis along with a gloved hand holding a sample in a tube.†
This module will introduce students to the fascinating subject of forensic biology, examining the role that DNA, biological samples and other evidence can play in identifying the perpetrator of a crime. The identification of victims will also be examined, through mitochondrial DNA and Y chromosome analysis as well as physical and pathological features of skeletal remains. Recent technological advances will be discussed with references to cold cases, and case studies will be used to apply biological understanding to real crimes.
*Credits: 15*
Semester: 2†
Module OrganiserPre-requisite Modules:Before taking this module you must pass BL3301 or pass BL3302*
Anti-requisite Modules:*
Post-requisite Modules:*
Additional Module Information:
Biology Teaching Office:
Level 2, Biomolecular Sciences Building, University of St Andrews, North Haugh, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9ST
Email: bioteach@st-andrews.ac.uk Phone: +44 (0)1334 46 3602 or 3566
BL4221: Assessment
Coursework = 100%*
The following related information applies to all Biology modules:
Who to ask †
(Information in this section applies to all Biology Modules)
Before contacting staff, students should check the content of the Biology Undergraduate Handbook, the module handbook and specific task instructions.
Biology Teaching Office:
We are happy to hear from you about teaching matters. The School of Biology Teaching Office is open Monday to Friday 09.00 - 13.00 and 14.00 - 17.00. School of Biology staff will respond to your emails during these hours. Our team will provide a response to you within three working days.
Biology Teaching Office (Level 2), University of St Andrews, Biomolecular Sciences Building, North Haugh, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9ST
Email: bioteach@st-andrews.ac.uk
Tel: 01334 46 3602 or 3566
BL4221: Contributing Staff †
BL4221: Learning Outcomes †
Students completing module BL4221 successfully should be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of how forensic biology can be used to identify an individual (for example, biological fluid analysis, DNA profiling, investigative genealogy)
- Identify skeletal features which are forensically important, and be able to determine an individual s age, gender, ethnicity and stature from examining or measuring bones.
- Accurately document the analysis of biological evidence and write up a forensic biology lab report.
- Identify recent biological advances and apply them to unsolved cases.
BL4221: Acquired Skills †
Practical Skills
Transferable Skills
- Group discussion - participating
- Short individual presentation on given topic (up to 15 min)
- "Full" practical write-up (Intro, Methods, Results, Discussion)
- "Short" practical write-up (e.g. completed worksheet)
- Critically evaluating sources/information
- Finding information on the web
- Finding literature
- Searching databases
- Problem-solving questions
- Data analysis
- Data presentation
Policies †
(Information in this section applies to all Biology Modules)
- The procedures and regulations followed by the School of Biology are outlined in the University Handbook and in the School of Biology UG handbook  JH booklet info (st-andrews.ac.uk)Â
- All coursework associated with the module must be completed and submitted by its due date.
- Specific School regulations relating to absence reporting, penalties and rules for late submission of work, extensions for coursework, return of coursework, S-coding, Good Academic Practice and Academic Alert are stated in the School of Biology UG hand book JH booklet info (st-andrews.ac.uk)  and students are required to carefully read these regulations.
- Students are also referred to the University Handbook, available at: http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/studenthandbook/
