POPSeq: The Human STR Sequence Diversity Database
Next-generation sequencing (NGS), also referred to as massively parallel sequencing (MPS), is evolving at a rapid pace and opening new doors to more sensitive methods for genetic typing of forensic samples [1]. This technology allows for extremely high sample and genetic marker multiplexing of conventional forensic loci and also investigative genomic data. In the scope of […]
Courtroom Testimony for Probabilistic Genotyping
“Ladies and Gentleman of the Jury, Jane Doe’s DNA matches the DNA found on the handle of the knife; therefore, she touched the knife and used it to stab John Doe”. As much as prosecutors would like that statement to come out of our mouths, that is not the role of the DNA Analyst. We […]
7 Ways to Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile
According to Business Insider, more than 30,000 organizations throughout the globe use LinkedIn to recruit new hires. If you’re looking for a new job and haven’t optimized your LinkedIn profile, you’re missing a HUGE opportunity! Read on for 7 ways you can upgrade your LinkedIn profile to become more attractive to hiring managers. Written […]
Two Novel Multiplex INDEL Assays for use with Degraded DNA Samples
Most commercially available STR kits yield amplified fragments with lengths between 100 and 500 base pairs. However degraded biological samples typically are fragmented into pieces of approximately 180-200bps. When samples have been degraded to fragments less than 500 base pairs, many of the loci in STR amplification kits, fail to yield amplification products. INDELs are […]
10 Validation Tips You Need to Know
Validations can be intimidating for any lab, so to make your life easier, we asked Promega’s Technical Support and Validation Teams to share tips on how to make the process go smoother. Prepare your lab. Make sure all of your all of your instrumentation (CEs, Thermal Cyclers, 7500s, Centrifuges) and tools (Pipettes, […]
Real-World Tips on How to Excel as an Expert Witness
In part one of our series on being an expert witness (Demystifying the Thoughts of Juror During Expert Witness Testimony), we examined what jury members were thinking during testimony. This week, we will discuss actionable tips you can use the next time you are called to the witness stand. Written by: Tara Luther, Promega […]
12 Tips for Writing Abstracts the Review Committee Will Love
Writing an abstract can be a daunting task, especially if you’ve never submitted one before! That’s why we’ve created this list of tips and tricks you can use to fine tune your abstracts before the due date on June 14th! Written by: Tara Luther, Promega Corporation Get in the head of the […]
Networking for Scientists Part I: How I Learned to Talk to Strangers
When thinking about career opportunities in science (and in any field really), solid networking skills can be the key factor in determining where and how you’ll be spending your next holiday. Networking breaks down into two parts: small talk/meeting people and establishing/maintaining job-relevant connections. Neither of these things are rocket science, but can be particularly […]
Networking for Scientists Part II: How to Get a Job (Hopefully)
Times are hard. Unemployment is high. Networking and maintaining job-relevant connections is more important than ever. Employers literally get hundreds of applications for each job posting. One of the most useful ways to make yourself stand out in a crowd (besides things like credentials and resumes) is to have a personal recommendation. In my last […]
