The Combating Terrorism Technical Support Office (CTTSO) and Defense Forensic Science Center have identified a priority requirement to develop validated forensic procedures using Next Generation DNA sequencing which can separate and analyze biological evidence containing DNA from up to ten different persons.
Proposals are sought for procedures that expand upon current short tandem repeat (STR) deconvolution methodologies and focus on deconvolution of statistically relevant single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) loci, Y chromosomal short tandem repeats, mitochondrial DNA, and selected protein markers.
Algorithms should be developed in conjunction with these protocols that analyze the results and provide individual identifying profiles of the donors in the mixed sample of evidence. Deliverable shall be able to operate independently without reliance on proprietary bioinformatics.
The requirement is part of this year’s Department of Defense Rapid Innovation Fund (RIF) approved topics. The RIF is designed to quickly transition innovative technologies that resolve operational challenges into acquisition programs. Those selected for award may receive up to $3 million and will have up to two years to perform the work.
Further details are available via Solicitation Number: HQ0034-16-BAA-RIF-0001B, Requirement Number: CTTSO-16-BAA-RIF-0001. The response deadline is May 03, 2016.