The LU Paleo-DNA Laboratory is one of the pioneers in the application of modern molecular genetic techniques and technologies to the study of archaeological and degraded DNA in human and animal remains. Technologies such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), DNA fingerprinting, and capillary electrophoresis are now used to reveal relationships between individuals who died millennia ago. Ancient and archaeological DNA research is an exciting and constantly evolving field and the Paleo-DNA Laboratory aims to remain at its forefront. Experience gained through the analysis of difficult to detect, degraded material allows the lab to offer very high quality genetic analytical services to persons and agencies interested in the study of bioarchaeology.

Early in 2002, the lab expanded into three divisions: research, services and teaching.The teaching division, consisting of undergraduate and graduate students (through the Department of Biology), can be found at the Lakehead University teaching facility on campus.The research and services divisions are located in a new laboratory facility at the Northern Ontario Technology Centre. Here, the research division conducts advanced DNA research, while the services division provides fee-for-service DNA analysis.