Sara Bodnar

Sara Bodnar works under Dr. Iyengar. Her current research focuses on the optimization of the collection and processing of challenging trace DNA samples with the Verogen MiSeq FGx Sequencing System and traditional STR profiling.

Sara is a PhD student hailing from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She holds a BS in Biology with a specialization in forensics from Ohio's Bowling Green State University. She graduated from WVU with her Master's in Forensic and Investigative Science in May of 2022 and researched mitochondrial DNA heteroplasmy in hair. Sara works as a Graduate Teaching Assistant for the FIS Department and has taught courses relating to forensic biology, molecular genetics, gravesite forensics, biological evidence, and introduction to forensic science.