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Three Perspectives on NGS in Forensic Science
From Sexual Assault Evidence to Indigenous Human Remains Identification
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Next-generation sequencing (NGS) is no longer just a technology for specialized research laboratories. Today, forensic scientists are applying it to real-world casework, using sequence-based information to answer questions that can be difficult to resolve with traditional methods alone. Whether improving the analysis of sexual assault evidence or supporting ethical human remains identification, NGS is expanding what forensic laboratories can achieve.
This season, three expert-led webinars highlight how laboratories and researchers are putting NGS into practice. Together, they show how sequencing technologies are helping forensic professionals strengthen workflows, gain additional genetic information and address increasingly complex investigative challenges.
Swabs, Separation and Sequencing: Modernizing Sexual Assault Evidence Processing
Processing sexual assault evidence requires balancing sample quality, workflow efficiency and downstream DNA analysis. Researchers at Sam Houston State University have evaluated approaches that combine improvements in differential extraction and sperm separation with both capillary electrophoresis (CE) and NGS analysis.
In this webinar, Dr. Rachel Houston and Lyndsy Stacy discuss findings from post-coital and mock samples, including practical considerations for laboratories evaluating modern sexual assault workflows.
Topics include:
- Streamlining differential extraction using a single-instrument approach
- Improving sperm cell recovery while reducing victim DNA carryover
- Comparing DNA extract performance across CE and NGS platforms
- Using sequence-based analysis for additional loci, isoallele resolution and Y-STR profiling
By examining where CE and NGS each provide value, the session offers practical guidance for laboratories considering how sequencing can complement existing workflows.
Making Informed Decisions with Y-screening
Choosing which samples to process can have a significant impact on laboratory efficiency and downstream DNA profiling success. Rather than relying solely on traditional serological screening, forensic laboratories can use quantitative Y chromosome-specific qPCR to make more informed decisions earlier in the workflow.
In this webinar, Dr. Rachel Houston, Associate Professor at Sam Houston State University, presents findings from multi-year research demonstrating how Y-screening can help predict STR profiling success, compare swab and pellet screening approaches, evaluate sensitivity in challenging and mixed samples, and assess lysate stability under different storage conditions. Together, these insights show how molecular screening can reduce unnecessary processing while supporting more efficient forensic workflows.
Watch this webinar to learn about:
- Predicting STR profiling success using Y-screening
- Comparing swab and pellet screening approaches
- Sensitivity in challenging and mixed samples
- Lysate stability under different storage conditions
Upcoming webinar: Advancing Indigenous human remains identification with NGS
Image credit: Courtesy of the University of Montana Mansfield Library, Archival Photographs from the University of Montana, Terry Welder Collection, Photo No. 76.0359, Browning, Montana, ca. 1900–1910.
Join us on August 25, 2026, for a webinar featuring Dr. Meradeth Snow, Professor of Anthropology at the University of Montana and Director of the Snow Molecular Anthropology Laboratory, and Dr. Haley Omeasoo, Founder and Executive Director of Ohkomi Forensics, MMIP Advocate and a descendant of the Blackfeet Tribe.
The speakers will discuss how the Blackfeet Tribe is using a tribally owned genetic database together with ForenSeq Kintelligence HT and MiSeq FGx to support ethical Indigenous human remains identification while honoring Tribal data sovereignty.
The webinar will cover:
- The forensic context of the Missing and Murdered Indigenous People (MMIP) crisis
- How Tribal data sovereignty supports ethical human remains identification
- Practical applications of ForenSeq Kintelligence HT and MiSeq FGx
- Considerations for implementing NGS in repatriation efforts
This session highlights that successful forensic genetics extends beyond technical performance. Ethical implementation, collaboration with Indigenous communities and community ownership of genetic data are equally important to advancing human remains identification.
See How NGS is Shaping the Future of Forensic Science
Although these webinars focus on different forensic applications, they share a common theme: next-generation sequencing is becoming an increasingly practical tool for routine forensic work.
From improving evidence processing and maximizing DNA recovery to providing additional sequence-based information and supporting ethical repatriation efforts, NGS is helping forensic laboratories address complex questions with greater confidence.
Whether you're beginning to evaluate sequencing technologies or expanding an established NGS workflow, these webinars provide practical insights from scientists applying these approaches in the field today.