FY 2018 DNA Capacity Enhancement and Backlog Reduction Program

The Houston Forensic Science Center (HFSC) is a uniquely independent forensic science laboratory operation that operates seven disciplines in the City of Houston. HFSC provides forensic science services to one of the largest police departments in the State of Texas, the Houston Police Department, as well as a growing number of other stakeholders in the region. One of the seven disciplines offered is Forensic Biology/DNA.
HFSC is seeking FY 2018 DNA Capacity Enhancement and Backlog Reduction Program (CEBR) funds to build upon efficiencies gained in applying Lean Six Sigma (LSS) principles to the laboratory’s biology and DNA workflows. Goals for this funding include:

• increasing laboratory capacity;
• enhancing workflow efficiency;and
• continuously improving forensic service quality.

Specifically, funds will be used for staffing, in-house training, continuing education, and outsourcing. The proposed objectives will benefit HFSC by improving throughput, preventing backlogs from forming, and ensuring that the HFSC Forensic Biology/DNA unit remains compliant with FBI quality assurance and laboratory accreditation standards.

NCA/NCF