Dr. Mohammed Ali Al Marri, a 34-year-old Emirati scientist, is playing a crucial role in assisting Dubai Police with solving cases, identifying suspects, establishing victim profiles, and predicting behavior traits using genomics. With his expertise in translating complex genetic data, Dr. Al Marri has transformed the investigative processes within the Dubai law enforcement community. The integration of genome science has proven to be invaluable in providing valuable clues about perpetrators and revolutionizing criminal investigations worldwide.
In 2023, Dr. Al Marri was appointed to lead the newly inaugurated Dubai Police Genome Centre, a cutting-edge facility dedicated to applying the latest genomic techniques. The goal of the center is to utilize advanced technologies for various applications, such as analyzing degraded DNA samples to identify individuals and exploring genetic causes behind unexplained deaths. Additionally, Dr. Al Marri’s team is involved in metagenomics, which enhances the police’s ability to respond to public health threats, including activities like wastewater testing for COVID-19 during the pandemic.
Dr. Al Marri’s passion for genetics dates back to his childhood, where he was intrigued by the variations in people’s appearances and traits, leading him to delve deeper into the world of genetics. His journey led him to pursue a PhD in human population genomics at the University of Cambridge, where he contributed to the field of genetics with a focus on the Middle East. By filling the significant gaps in global research involving Arab genetic data, Dr. Al Marri identified millions of genetic mutations unique to the region, which can be pivotal in forensic cases and establishing ancestry.
Looking ahead, Dr. Al Marri remains optimistic about the future of genomics in law enforcement and medicine. Genomic sequencing is opening new avenues for investigating previously unsolvable cases and moving towards personalized medicine, where treatments are tailored to an individual’s genetic makeup. Furthermore, as one of the youngest leaders in his field, Dr. Al Marri is dedicated to educating future scientists by lecturing at Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, emphasizing the importance of knowledge transfer for the continued advancement of science and inspiring the next generation of researchers.
