Module 02
Advanced Forensic DNA Analysis

DNA evidence can make or break a wildlife crime case. But only when it is collected correctly, processed under validated conditions, and interpreted with precision.

University Avans University of Applied Sciences
Location Breda, NL
Dates 25–29 January 2027
Duration 4 dagen (+ opt. dag 5)
Costs €750
Max. participants 16
About this module
Hands-on in a real forensic laboratory.

This four-day laboratory course at Avans University of Applied Sciences gives you direct, hands-on experience with the two principal methods used in forensic DNA analysis: Short Tandem Repeat (STR) profiling and Next Generation Sequencing (NGS).

You work in a real validated forensic laboratory, supervised by a qualified forensic analyst, progressing from DNA extraction through to full profile interpretation and case-based application. The course ends with a structured comparative evaluation — so you leave knowing exactly when to use which method, and why that decision matters in court.

Quick facts
Real validated forensic laboratory
Supervised by a qualified forensic analyst
STR profiling and NGS in one course
Validated STR kits and NGS instrumentation
Specialist forensic DNA analysis software
Optional 5th day for in-depth method comparison
What you will learn
4 core areas. From extraction to court.
STR Profiling in Practice

DNA extraction and quantification, execution of STR analysis, profile interpretation, and identification of analytical error sources within a real forensic case context.

Next Generation Sequencing (NGS)

Preparation and execution of full NGS workflows, interpretation of sequencing data, and evaluation of scenarios where NGS adds value over STR.

Critical Method Comparison

Systematic assessment of both methods across reliability, cost, processing time, and interpretative complexity — applied directly to wildlife forensic scenarios.

Quality Assurance & Contamination Control

Processing samples in accordance with established QA standards and contamination control protocols — the non-negotiable baseline for evidence admissibility.

Programme day by day
4 days + optional deepening on day 5.
Day 1 — Monday (afternoon)
Orientation: forensic laboratory environment · Quality assurance guidelines · Case-based review of STR profiling and NGS applications
Day 2 — Tuesday
STR Profiling: DNA extraction and quantification · Execution of STR analysis · Profile interpretation and error evaluation
Day 3 — Wednesday
Applied STR: Case scenario application · Reflection on usability and reliability · Introduction to NGS workflow preparation
Day 4 — Thursday
NGS in Practice: Full workflow execution · Sequencing data analysis · Comparative evaluation of NGS vs. STR
Day 5 — Friday (optional, morning)
Comparative Analysis: Systematic method comparison · Discussion with forensic specialist · Written report and personal reflection
Leeruitkomsten
Upon completion, you will be able to:
Process forensic DNA samples in accordance with QA standards and contamination control protocols
Perform STR profiling and apply results within a forensic case context
Execute NGS workflows and interpret sequencing output
Compare STR and NGS methods on reliability, applicability, and interpretative complexity
Critically evaluate which DNA method fits specific forensic circumstances
Reflect on your professional competencies within the forensic laboratory workflow
Included
Supervision by a qualified forensic analyst throughout
Validated STR kits, NGS instrumentation, and specialist forensic DNA analysis software
All teaching materials and case documentation
Not included
Travel costs
Accommodation
Subsistence
Apply
The lab awaits.

Spots are strictly limited to 16 participants. Selection is based on professional profile and motivation — not first-come, first-served.

Reserve Your Spot — Module 02 →

Deadline: 30 June 2026 · info@wildlifeforensic.com