Welcome

Dear Scientist,

We’ve just come back from an amazing week in Denver at the International Symposium of Human Identification (ISHI), and now my mind wanders to thoughts of Autumn leaves and then quickly moves on to the holidays…and then inner panic kicks in as I think of the gift shopping yet to be done. Perhaps as you begin thinking about your gifts wish list – wouldn’t it be exciting to add new 8-dye technology and a Spectrum instrument to your laboratory?

Caroline Parker of the Forensics Genomics Innovations Hub in Southampton, UK did just that when her lab opened one year ago. In fact, she was one of the first to bring this new technology into her lab. In this issue, you can read about her experience with the Spectrum CE System.

Additionally, you can read a fascinating article about maximizing DNA extraction from trace samples using the Casework Direct System for estimating DNA methylation levels from Dr. Simona Severini, in Perugia, Italy.

And if you would like to learn more information on successfully extracting DNA from bone samples, be sure to read the article written by The National Forensic Institute of the Netherlands.

If you enjoy podcasts, you will want to check out “Beyond the Yellow Tape”, which was created by former ISHI Student Ambassador, Nidhi Sheth and her colleague, Julian Beach.

We’ve also included two very exciting posters on the compatibility of Spectrum Compact CE Instrument with 8-dye PowerPlex® Systems and on the upcoming 8-dye kit, PowerPlex®18E System which meets the ENFSI recommendations for DNA profile sharing across Europe. All of the loci are under 350bp in size, and Quality Sensors are included to aid in data interpretation.

Finally, enjoy the profile of Jung Ah Kim, a Strategic Sales Manager at our Korean branch office. Jung Ah (aka Michelle) is a proud dog “mom” and an avid hiker.

Wishing you much success in your endeavors,

Ann MacPhetridge