BIO4 Campus launched the Mini Minglarijum series with a session featuring the Center for Forensic and Applied Molecular Genetics (CFPMG) at the Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade. The center has been operating for over 20 years (under its current name since 2017), independently developing new technologies and expertise in molecular biology and genetics.

Prof. Dušan Kečkarević presented the center's work, which spans forensic DNA identification, genetic genealogy analysis, and population genetics studies. Since 2002, the laboratory has processed more than 10,000 forensic cases — primarily for criminal proceedings, but also kinship testing and identification of human remains.

From courtroom evidence to evolutionary research

CFPMG's research focuses on DNA transfer, retention, and isolation from various biological traces, analysis of evolutionary events through Y-chromosome and mtDNA haplogroup determination, mutation rate assessment of different STR loci, and epigenetic age estimation of trace donors. A particular area of interest is ancient DNA analysis across different historical and archaeological contexts.

The laboratory uses a range of PCR-based techniques, with forensic DNA analysis centered on the gold standard: STR locus genotyping via capillary electrophoresis (CE). Since 2018, the introduction of massively parallel sequencing (MPS) technology has enabled detection of sequence variations within specific STR loci — providing additional information that CE alone cannot reveal.

Bridging forensic practice and molecular research

CFPMG operates at the intersection of forensic science, population genetics, and molecular archaeology — domains where precision, validation, and interdisciplinary collaboration are essential. The center's dual focus on applied casework and scientific research positions it as both a service provider for the justice system and a contributor to fundamental knowledge in human genetics and evolutionary biology.

Mini Minglarijum was created to provide BIO4 tenants and partners with a platform to share their methodologies, research directions, and contributions to Serbia's life sciences and innovation landscape. This first session set the tone for a series designed to connect expertise, spark collaboration, and strengthen the ecosystem BIO4 is building.