LBC's Spring 2025 commencement speaker is an innovator in forensic DNA technology
March 10, 2025 - Adrianna Orlando
The Lyman Briggs College Spring 2025 commencement speaker is Paraj Mandrekar, M.S., a 1993 graduate of Lyman Briggs College with a degree in microbiology and public health. He has built a career at the intersection of genetics and forensic science. With a master's degree in genetics from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Mandrekar has spent over two decades driving innovation at Promega Corporation.
Mandrekar joined Promega in 1998 as a research scientist in the Genetic Identity Research and Development (R&D) group. Over 16 years, including eight as the lead R&D scientist for forensic DNA purification projects, he played a key role in developing technologies that have transformed forensic DNA analysis. Since 2014, he has served as a senior scientific and technical advisor within Promega’s Technical Services group, specializing in DNA purification challenges and automated solutions.
Throughout his career, Mandrekar has contributed to numerous groundbreaking developments in forensic DNA technology and biotechnology, including the first forensic genotyping kit to incorporate all of the FBI’s recommended “CODIS 13” markers, the first DNA purification chemistry specifically designed to address a problem in forensic chemistry, the first commercial system designed to address sexual assault samples upstream of purification, and the first kit designed for cell line authentication. In addition, he collaboratively designed a new particle chemistry for high capacity DNA purification problems and designed DNA purification kits for the Maxwell(R) robotic instrument for forensic DNA extraction and isolation.
Mandrekar's contributions extend beyond the laboratory to global humanitarian efforts and pandemic responses as well. In the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 attacks, he assisted New York City’s Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in automating DNA isolation from World Trade Center samples using a new paramagnetic particle chemistry. In 2002, he collaborated with Croatian scientists to extract DNA from bones found in mass graves in the former Yugoslavia. Two research teams he served on received the prestigious R&D 100 Award in 2002. In 2020, he provided technical expertise to laboratories adapting to SARS-CoV-2 testing during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mandrekar's work includes 23 co-authored articles, one issued patent, and involvement in the release of 21 commercial products, predominantly in forensic DNA extraction and analysis. One of his products was featured on the TV series “CSI:Miami.”
During his time at MSU, Mandrekar was recognized with the LBC Outstanding Senior Award and FB Dutton Award in 1993. His commitment to advancing forensic science and mentoring laboratory professionals has made him a respected leader in the field for over 20 years.
Mandrekar is excited to speak at the May 4, 2025 LBC commencement ceremony and share his advice and experiences with graduating Briggsies. We look forward to welcoming him back.