Forensic DNA Laboratories Acquisition
Health Network Laboratories (HNL) acquired two forensic DNA laboratories: Fairfax Identity Laboratories and Mitotyping Technologies. These laboratories, based in State College, Pa., provide DNA testing services for human identification, paternity, criminal investigations, tissue identification, immigration, estate settlements, adoption, and species lineage. They also offer expert witness testimony in high-profile forensic cases and handle challenging cases with advanced scientific expertise.
Expertise and Expansion
The acquisition enhances HNL’s forensic pathology and toxicology services and introduces new service lines. This acquisition expands HNL’s presence in the U.S. and internationally.
History of Fairfax Identity Laboratories
Fairfax Identity Laboratories, originally based in Virginia, has specialized in DNA testing for forensic analysis and paternity testing since 1990. The laboratory serves state and federal agencies, police departments, attorneys, private individuals, and the Department of Defense. In 2014, Fairfax Identity Laboratories merged with Mitotyping Technologies and relocated to State College, Pa.
Specialization of Mitotyping Technologies
Mitotyping Technologies specializes in mitochondrial and nuclear DNA analysis. The laboratory is one of the oldest providers of these services, particularly for mitochondrial DNA analysis of shed hairs and hair fragments. It holds accreditations from the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors and AABB Relationship Testing. Under the leadership of Jeff Wisotzkey, PhD, HCLD, CC, both Fairfax Identity Laboratories and Mitotyping Technologies will continue to operate in State College under the direction of Bob Bever, PhD.
Expanding Forensic Pathology Services
The acquisition allows HNL and Forensic Pathology Associates to offer a complete forensic pathology service, including forensic DNA and paternity testing. This expansion supports the growing demand for comprehensive forensic diagnostic services.
About Health Network Laboratories
Health Network Laboratories (HNL), based in Allentown, Pa., is a multiregional medical laboratory serving more than 10,000 healthcare providers. HNL has provided laboratory services for 35 years, including 15 years as an independent laboratory. HNL operates 24/7 and offers a full range of services, including molecular diagnostics, flow cytometry, cytogenetics, toxicology, and immunohistochemistry testing. The laboratory processes 70 million samples annually and employs over 900 professionals, including 25 board-certified pathologists and scientists.
