Sample interview questions: Can you discuss any experience you have with the analysis of hair using electron microscopy or DNA sequencing?
Sample answer:
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Experience with hair analysis using electron microscopy:
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Conducted numerous hair examinations using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) for forensic casework.
- Analyzed hair samples to determine morphological characteristics, such as shaft diameter, cuticle patterns, and cross-sectional shape, in order to differentiate between human and animal hair, and to identify specific hair types (e.g., head, pubic, axillary).
- Employed SEM-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) to analyze elemental composition of hair samples, providing information about potential contaminants or treatments (e.g., dyes, bleaches, or styling products) that may have been applied to the hair.
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Utilized SEM-backscattered electron imaging (SEM-BSE) to examine internal structure of hair fibers, allowing for the identification of abnormalities, such as fractures, splits, or damage, which can be crucial in forensic investigations.
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Experience with hair analysis using DNA sequencing:
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Conducted DNA sequencing on hair samples collected from crime scenes and evidence items using state-of-the-art DNA extraction and amplification techniques.
- Analyzed mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequences obtained from hair samples to establish genetic profiles of individuals, aiding in suspect identification and exclusion.
- Performed short tandem repeat (STR) analysis on nuclear DNA extracted from hair roots, providing highly discriminatory genetic information for forensic identification and relationship testing (e.g., paternity analysis).
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Utilized advanced DNA sequencing technologies, includ… Read full answer