A Next Generation Sequencing Platform to Enhance DNA-Based Geosourcing and Expand Student-Research Opportunities
Abstract
The Defense University Research Instrumentation Program (DURIP) is designed to improve the capabilities of U.S. Universities to conduct research and to educate scientists and engineers in selected technical areas of importance to national defense. DURIP funding provides for the acquisition of research equipment and instrumentation for this purpose. This proposal is for the purchase of a next generation sequencing platform. The P.I.s , Dr. Kevin Sweder, Michael Marciano and VADM Robert Murrett (ret) of Syracuse University will use the equipment to augment and enhance research capabilities in the area of DNA based bioforensics. The Bioforensics group within the Syracuse University Forensic and National Security Sciences Institute seeks to purchase an Illumina MiSeq FGx, a newly released high-throughput next generation DNA sequencer. The research conducted within the Forensic and National Security Sciences Bioforensics group focuses on development of genetic solutions to address military and intelligence-based needs present in the Department of Defense. Primary research questions focus on DNA-based geosourcing of material including illicit drugs, contraband, and persons of concern and extend to custom DNA-based marker development, methods to increase the reliability and usability of the DNA-based information through research projects based on improving the efficiency, fieldability, and cost for instruments and consumables. While we have demonstrated our capabilities in this domain, we lack the high-throughput next generation sequencing platform requested herein Ð a platform that will expand and deepen our abilities to address DoD needs in tagging tracking and locating materials and persons of concern. The educational mission of the Forensics National Security Sciences Institute (FNSSI) prepares students to become the next generation of scientists in forensic and national security domains. Student involvement in research is commonplace within FNSSI. The research components are predicated on our commitment to provide a curriculum with direct access to practitioners in the field and the instruments they use. The Bioforensics group actively engages FNSSI graduate students in research projects that focus on the needs of the Department of Defense, providing them context and experience in laboratory techniques and operational knowledge of instrumentation. The addition of the Illumina MiSeq FGx will have an immediate impact on the students working within the Bioforensics laboratory, expanding the scope of research projects they may undertake and provide the experience that would allow for a more seamless transition from graduate school into forensic and national security practice.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jan 12, 2017
- Source ID
- W911NF1510303
Entities
People
- Kevin Sweder
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- Syracuse University
- United States Army