Unit of Forensic Genetics (UGF)

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Presentation

Activities of the Forensic Genetics Unit

The main mission of the FGU is to use molecular biology to provide scientific information both within the context of judicial investigations and in cases of kinship (e.g., paternity), as well as for for living or deceased individuals whose identity is unknown.

The main activities of the FGU are:

• Performing tests to determine the nature of biological material, including blood, saliva, and semen, as well as the probabilistic evaluation of the results.
• Establishing DNA profiles (genetic markers on autosomes, the X chromosome, the Y chromosome, and mitochondrial DNA) from samples taken from individuals or objects (traces) in the context of judicial investigations, kinship cases, situations involving living or deceased persons of unknown identity, and matters related to anti-doping efforts.
•  Entering autosomal and Y‑chromosome DNA profiles into the Swiss DNA profile database (CODIS) and assessing the DNA comparisons with suggested candidates.
• Comparing DNA profiles through visual examination and probabilistic genotyping.
• Performing the probabilistic evaluation of observations to help answer questions regarding the source of a DNA sample and the activities that may have led to its deposition, or its absence, at a given location.
• Inferring eye, hair, and skin color, as well as the biogeographical ancestry of a deceased person or of the source of a trace (phenotyping).
• Conducting research and development activities.
• Providing training at universities, the School of Health Sciences, the School of Criminal Justice, the Swiss Police Institute, etc.

The FGU is mainly commissioned by official authorities but can also perform kinship analyses for private clients. Only mandates corresponding to its field of activity and areas of expertise are accepted. Mandates are carried out with mutual respect between the parties involved and in accordance with the principles of professional ethics that the management is committed to promoting among its staff.

Accreditation

The Forensic Genetics Unit is a public-sector laboratory accredited according to ISO 17025 standards (accreditation number STS‑420) and approved by the Federal Office of Police.

UGF Personnel

The FGU comprises approximately twenty individuals, including:

• A unit manager: Vincent Castella, PhD, PD‑MER, Forensic Geneticist SSLM
• An operations manager: Christian Gehrig, M.Sc., Forensic Geneticist SSLM
• A head of interpretation: Tacha Hicks Champod, PhD
• A quality manager: Marie-Laure Morerod, BAT
• DNA experts:
  • Patrick Basset, PhD, Forensic Geneticist SSLM
  • Séverine Delémont, M.Sc.
  • Lydie Samie‑Foucart, PhD
  • Frédéric Grosjean, PhD
  • Carmelo Simili, M.Sc.
• Biomedical analysis technicians (BAT)
• Administrative staff