The DNA Database is a section of the Police Forensic Science Laboratory Dundee (PFSLD). PFSLD was opened in 1989 while the DNA Database was opened in 1996. It is funded by 3 Police Forces (Tayside, Fife and Central Scotland). Along with the three other operational Forensic Laboratories in Scotland, PFSLD is independent of the Forensic Service of England and Wales.
DNA Databasing is carried out in separate accommodation from PFSLD.The main service provision of the DNA Database includes:
- DNA PCR-STR Profiling of Criminal Justice mouth swabs and hair samples to be compared to crime scene profiles
- Civil and criminal paternity
- Body identification
The DNA Database facility operates a database of DNA profi les obtained from criminals which can be compared against materials such as bloodstains, saliva, hair or skin cells found at crime scenes.The Dundee-based DNA Database facility routinely undertakes DNA analysis for all of Scotland's eight police forces.