Laboratories

The Division of Laboratories consists of four leading-edge laboratories that support the critical work of medical examiners in determining cause and manner of death, and serve the criminal justice system in New York City. OCME's laboratories provide answers for families and communities during times of profound need.

Approximately 225 scientists and support staff work in the Division of Laboratories. The Division includes the Forensic Biology, Forensic Toxicology, Histology, and Molecular Genetics laboratories. Each lab supports the mission of OCME by identifying individuals through their DNA (Forensic Biology), performing toxicological (Forensic Toxicology) and histological (Histology) analysis of the deceased, and searching for genetic diseases (Molecular Genetics).

The Forensic Biology Laboratory serves as the City's DNA laboratory – analyzing biological evidence from criminal cases submitted by the NYPD. The Forensic Toxicology Laboratory examines criminal evidence submitted by the NYPD from drug-facilitated sexual assault cases and alcohol or drug-related driving impaired cases.