Zachary J. Tanczos
Bel Air,MD
Summary
DNA analyst with over ten years of experience in DNA interpretation and analysis. Expertise in probabilistic genotyping and adherence to accreditation standards and SOPs. Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills, with a proven ability to communicate complex topics effectively to clients.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Forensic Scientist II
Baltimore PD, Forensic Biology Unit
Baltimore, MD
03.2020 - Current
- Served as CODIS Administrator during Administrator and Alternate absence.
- Assisted with internal audits within DNA and other lab disciplines.
- Reviewed outsourced casework for accuracy and approved profiles for CODIS upload.
- Executed responsibilities identical to prior employment.
Forensic DNA Scientist
Pennsylvania State Police DNA Laboratory
Greensburg, PA
08.2015 - 03.2020
- Conducted DNA analyses on evidence samples, comparing results to reference profiles.
- Authored reports detailing findings for use in investigations and court proceedings.
- Testified as expert witness in DNA analysis during criminal trials.
- Performed preventive maintenance on instruments to comply with accreditation standards.
Forensic DNA Scientist Trainee
Pennsylvania State Police DNA Laboratory
Greensburg, PA
07.2014 - 08.2015
- Completed training programs including mock sample sets, report writing exercises, and lectures.
- Achieved certification after successfully finishing a mock case and mock trial.
- Performed preventive maintenance on instruments to comply with accreditation standards.
Education
Master of Science - Forensic Science and Law
Duquesne University
Pittsburgh, PA05.2013
Bachelor of Science - Biology (minor in Math, Biochemistry)
Duquesne University
Pittsburgh, PA05.2012
Skills
- DNA analysis
- CODIS management
- Case review
- Probabilistic Genotyping
- Internal auditing
- Instrument maintenance
- Court testimony
DNA Analysis Experience
- Trained in Extraction (Manual: Organic, Robotic: QIAGEN EZ1 & EZ2 and QIAsymphony platforms), Quantitation (PowerQuant, Plexor HY, Yield Gel), DNA Analysis and DNA Profiling (Human: PowerPlex 16 HS, PowerPlex Fusion, Male: ABI Yfiler, ABI Yfiler Plus), and Probabilistic Genotyping (TrueAllele).
Expert Testimony
- Qualified as an Expert Witness in DNA analysis six times in Baltimore City Circuit Court.
- Qualified as an Expert Witness in DNA analysis eleven times in nine Pennsylvania Counties.
Timeline
Forensic Scientist II
Baltimore PD, Forensic Biology Unit
03.2020 - Current
Forensic DNA Scientist
Pennsylvania State Police DNA Laboratory
08.2015 - 03.2020
Forensic DNA Scientist Trainee
Pennsylvania State Police DNA Laboratory
07.2014 - 08.2015
Master of Science - Forensic Science and Law
Duquesne University
Bachelor of Science - Biology (minor in Math, Biochemistry)
Duquesne University