DNA Laboratory Instrumentation, Annual Maintenance, Software, Supplies, and Training

The Regional Forensic Science Center (RFSC) is a department within the Sedgwick County Division of Public Safety that provides forensic services to the city of Wichita, Kansas, and surrounding cities within Sedgwick County. The RFSC houses the Office of the District Coroner and Forensic Science Laboratories.

The DNA laboratory has accumulated a backlog over the past several years. With newer scientists recently becoming proficient in screening and DNA testing, the laboratory has been able to carry out DNA testing on more sexual assault cases, thus creating an increased awareness of supply costs associated with the additional analysts. The goal of this project is allocation of funding for required equipment and supplies so sexual assault cases and homicides awaiting analysis may be processed for the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) entry. Increasing expenses associated with a recently implemented robotics workflow (kits/consumables) and supply cost increases are addressed within the scope of this project proposal. As in years past, budget shortfalls county-wide present the laboratory with challenges related to the continuation of maintenance agreements on critical software and instrumentation. The laboratory currently owns STRmix and Forensic Advantage licenses and numerous automated critical instruments used for DNA extraction, quantification, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) profiling which will require ongoing preventative maintenance and service agreements; this proposal addresses those needs. The RFSC strives to increase capacity with the addition of small-scale equipment/technology and continually seeks to provide professional growth opportunities to DNA scientists. Accordingly, this project will expand laboratory capacity by acquisition of thermal shakers, a secondary post-amp freezer, analytical data software upgrades, and providing off-site training conference opportunities to DNA analysts.

The goal of this project is to enhance laboratory services by best utilizing robotic instrumentation to enhance the analytical capacity of the laboratory, increase throughput, and reduce the backlog of cases awaiting processing and database entry. This includes proper operational and preventative maintenance of instrumentation, purchasing lab equipment as needed, and acquisition of supplies commensurate with the addition of trained staff, increased sample volume, and implementation of robotic procedures. Recognizing that continuing education fosters innovation, this proposal requests funding for training opportunities that would not otherwise be possible. These objectives will collectively result in faster turn-around times and more efficient entry of eligible CODIS profiles.