Jeff Wells
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Jeff Wells

Director of Undergraduate Advising
Associate Professor

Ph.D 1992, University of Illinois at Chicago

E-mail: jdwells@mail.wvu.edu


Forensic Biology/Molecular Systematics

We apply the tools of biology and statistics to practical forensic science problems. This includes the development of death investigation methods based on DNA testing and the analysis of insect evidence. Current projects are directed at improved techniques for human identity testing using short tandem repeat loci and statistical models for estimating the time of death. Facilities include real-time PCR and capillary-array genotyping instruments and a variety of insect-rearing facilities. Recent graduates now work in the crime laboratories of several state agencies and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. In addition to applied research areas we also conduct research in closely related subject areas such as molecular systematics or population/conservation genetics. Most of our recent work along these lines has focused on the fly Superfamily Oestrodea, although we have studied other taxa including vertebrates.

Dr. Wells' Home Page: http://community.wvu.edu/~jdw026/LabWWW/WellsLab.htm