CSI on television has made forensic DNA a household word. But this exciting field continues to evolve at a rapid pace. Hampikian’s lab works on cases from Pocatello, Idaho, to Perugia, Italy (Amanda Knox), and is developing new technology to improve forensic DNA. Hampikian’s specialty in cold case DNA has helped free 10 prisoners, and led to new arrests of true perpetrators decades after the crime. In this podcast, he discusses the different types of DNA and how they are used in criminal investigations. He also explains why DNA is such a powerful “truth-teller” in diverse applications from determining genetic heritage to freeing those wrongly accused of murder. Hampikian is the author of “Exit to Freedom” with Calvin Johnson, Jr., which tells the story of Johnson’s exoneration after 17 years in prison.