At ISHI 36 in Palm Beach last November, poster sessions filled the exhibit hall with the latest innovations in forensic DNA—from novel extraction methods to advances in probabilistic genotyping. Among them was a presentation that tackled a practical challenge labs face as Rapid DNA technology becomes more prevalent: how do you collect evidence efficiently for both rapid cartridge analysis and traditional laboratory workflows?
Dan Watsula, Product Manager at Bode Technology, presented the first look at the Bode RapidSwab®, a dual-matrix collection device designed to bridge that gap. The device combines a flocked swab compatible with emerging rapid cartridges and a cotton swab for traditional analysis—all in one tool.
In this interview, Dan shares more about the development process, what the data shows, and how this innovation could streamline evidence collection in the field.
Briefly describe your work/area of interest.
My poster at ISHI 2025 presented the first look at our newest DNA evidence collection product, the Bode RapidSwab®. We developed a dual-matrix collection device that uses both a cotton and flocked swab for more complete DNA collection.
The flocked swab is compatible with emerging rapid cartridges, including the specialized protocol of the Applied Biosystems™ RapidINTEL™ Plus, while the cotton swab can be utilized for traditional extraction, quantification, and amplification analysis.
Our Product Development Team evaluated the performance of the device using multiple biological fluids (cellular solutions, epithelial cells, blood, and saliva) along with a variety of surfaces (gun grips, knife blades, glass, and soda cans) that may be encountered in routine evidence collection. The RapidSwab device allows for easy removal of the flocked swab for analysis with Rapid DNA, while the cotton swab can be analyzed using traditional laboratory procedures.
Our results demonstrated successful collection of evidence, compatibility with current and emerging technologies, and all DNA profiles obtained were consistent with the biological material donor.
How did you get interested in this work? Why did this particular project appeal?
It probably sounds a little cliché especially coming from a Product Manager, but successful DNA Analysis starts with the collection of evidence. All devices are not created equal. If the evidence is not collected properly or with the correct collection device, the potential for an investigative lead, justice for victims, exoneration of the innocent, and closure for families may be lost.
We identified a gap in the way DNA evidence was being collected for Rapid DNA and traditional laboratory analysis. Our Product Development team worked diligently to create the best collection device for compatibility with this emerging technology, providing another tool for investigators, crime scene personnel, and DNA analysts.
What has been the most rewarding part of working on this project?
The development of a new product is a journey, and there is always a risk that a project can be paused or shelved for a variety of reasons. That first round of R&D data, proving that the concept works as intended, is a great feeling and a real moment of relief.
Contributing throughout this developmental process and seeing the RapidSwab move from a concept to prototype to now nearing full commercial launch (Q1 2026) has been incredibly rewarding.
Are there any further areas of research you think are needed based on your findings?
Our Product Development Team is continuing to build and expand our developmental data sets with this new product. We’ve recently sent out some sample collectors to forensic laboratories and are greatly anticipating their feedback on the design and performance.
How do you hope your research will be applied in real-world scenarios?
Every year more news stories, journal articles, and conference presentations emerge discussing the impact of Rapid DNA and its application to investigations and identification. I hope our work helps lead the way for evidence collection by offering a single tool that supports both Rapid and Traditional DNA Analysis.