FDC Quality Assurance & Accreditation Flashcards
6 cards from real FDC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 FDC Quality Assurance & Accreditation flashcards as text
What is the purpose of an internal ladder (allelic ladder) in STR analysis?
Answer: To provide reference allele sizes for accurate genotyping of sample peaks
The allelic ladder contains known alleles at each STR locus and is co-injected with samples to assign accurate genotypes by comparing relative migration.
Which quality metric measures the probability that two unrelated individuals chosen at random will share the same DNA profile?
Answer: Random match probability (RMP)
The random match probability (RMP) is the probability that a randomly selected unrelated individual would have the same DNA profile as the contributor.
What is a validation study in the context of a forensic DNA laboratory?
Answer: A systematic process of testing a method to confirm it is fit for forensic purpose
Validation studies test a new or modified analytical method under controlled conditions to confirm it produces reliable and accurate results before use in casework.
What distinguishes developmental validation from internal validation in forensic DNA methods?
Answer: Developmental validation is done by the kit manufacturer or researcher; internal validation confirms the method works in a specific lab's hands
Developmental validation is performed by the kit developer to establish the method's capabilities; internal validation is performed by each individual laboratory to confirm those capabilities in their specific setting.
Which statistical framework expresses DNA evidence strength as the ratio of probabilities under two competing hypotheses (e.g., suspect vs. unknown contributor)?
Answer: Likelihood ratio
The likelihood ratio (LR) compares the probability of the evidence under the prosecution hypothesis to the probability under the defense hypothesis.
Under the FBI Quality Assurance Standards, what must be done before a new analyst conducts independent DNA casework?
Answer: Complete a documented competency test demonstrating proficiency in all required technical areas
The FBI QAS requires that analysts complete and pass a competency test covering all areas of their assigned casework before working independently.
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