FY16 DNA Capacity Enhancement and Backlog Reduction Program

The Houston Forensic Science Center (HFSC) is a uniquely independent forensic science laboratory operation that operates eight disciplines in the City of Houston. HFSC provides forensic science services to the largest police department in the State of Texas, the Houston Police Department, as well as a growing number of other stakeholders in the region. One of the eight disciplines offered is Forensic Biology/DNA.
HFSC is seeking FY 2016 DNA Capacity Enhancement and Backlog Reduction Program (CEBR) funds to build upon efficiencies gained in applying Lean Six Sigma principles to the laboratory’s biology and DNA workflows. Goals for this funding include:
• increasing laboratory capacity
• preventing future backlogs from occurring
• enhancing workflow efficiency through new technology
• continuously improve quality of service
Specifically, funds will be used to purchase liquid handling robots and high capacity copiers, to validate and train staff in the use of mixture analysis software, to implement evidence and work product tracking technology, and to provide external training opportunities to keep staff current in their field. The proposed objectives will benefit HFSC by improving throughput and preventing backlogs from forming in the event of unforeseen instrument down time, enhancing our ability to monitor the receipt and testing of sexual assault kits, tracking the time and resources spent on casework analysis for process improvement, and ensuring that the HFSC Forensic Biology/DNA unit remains compliant with FBI quality assurance and laboratory accreditation standards.
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