UNLV plans lab for forensic study

Jennifer Knight

Thursday, Jan. 10, 2002 | 8:46 a.m.

The University of Nevada, Las Vegas is partnering with one of Metro Police's DNA experts to create a cutting-edge forensic training lab, university officials said.

The university will use the help of Berch Henry, Metro's forensic DNA laboratory manager, to equip the lab to mimic what is in use at professional crime labs.

"We felt that this partnering with Metro was a way for us to offer something unique," said Penny Amy, a UNLV biology professor who spearheaded the project. "While Las Vegas is a great vacation destination, we felt people will be willing to come here for (forensic) training."

The building and equipment for the new biotechnology center comes from a $2.6 million grant from the Health and Human Services Administration.

Students wishing to train in the field of forensics will be able to get the proper training, something that is not easily available, Henry said.

"There's really a serious shortage of DNA analysts in this field," Henry said. "There are probably half a dozen schools around the country who have true forensic science degrees."

Forensic DNA science often helps solve crimes by matching genetic material at a crime scene with that of a suspect. Metro's forensic division is considered to be one of the top labs in the country.

Construction of the new center will be part of the new complex that also contains the dental school at Charleston Boulevard and Shadow Lane. The complex is expected to be completed in two years. The lab will eventually be expanded to accommodate biotechnical research, Amy said.

"This is a really a wonderful thing," Amy said. "The opportunities are limitless."