DNA Matching

Under contract to the FBI, we developed and now support forensic science computer systems and reference files that serve FBI and state and local crime laboratories performing DNA analyses. These include the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) and the associated National DNA Index System (NDIS). We also train state and local laboratory personnel and operate domestic and international help desks.

Success Stories

Combined DNA Index System (CODIS)
CODIS provides a system for automated information processing and telecommunications of DNA profile information. The CODIS system helps law enforcement agencies develop investigative leads and generate statistical inference data about the frequency of occurrence of a particular profile in a selected population set. Using powerful data analyses and matching algorithms, forensic scientists and investigators in local crime laboratories create DNA profiles and search local, state, and national indexes for a match to a target profile of unknown origin. CODIS is currently implemented at more than 200 U.S. forensic laboratories and in 32 foreign countries.

An important contribution of the CODIS system to improving criminal justice is that it allows DNA evidence left at the crime scene to be linked to the perpetrator. In many sexual assault cases, DNA is the only evidence left at the crime scene and there are rarely any witnesses to the crime. The new and powerful analysis techniques of CODIS are helping solve crimes that have remained unsolved for decades due to the lack of proper analysis tools.

CODIS is designed to be flexible and has been enhanced to accommodate the frequent changes in state and federal laws as the power of the DNA matching technology and the supporting systems has been recognized by legislatures and the public.

National DNA Index System (NDIS)
SAIC helps the FBI maintain the National DNA Index System. SAIC's support in making NDIS fully operational in 1998 has added another beneficial dimension to the DNA matching process by allowing interstate comparison of DNA evidence. Prior to NDIS, only intrastate comparisons could be made. This extended capability has helped link the same perpetrator to additional crimes in more than one state and helped reduce the backlog of unsolved crimes.