The technique of DNA fingerprinting in humans was first developed by which of the following scientists?

Introduction:
DNA fingerprinting is a powerful technique used to identify individuals based on variations in their DNA. It has important applications in forensic science, paternity testing and population genetics. This question asks you to recall which scientist first developed the human DNA fingerprinting technique and distinguish that person from other researchers associated with genetics and forensic science in later years.

Given Data / Assumptions:
- The topic is the first development of DNA fingerprinting in humans. - Options list Lalji Singh, Alec Jeffreys, R. Ericson and J. Black. - We assume standard historical accounts of molecular biology and forensic genetics. - The question is about who developed the technique originally, not who later applied or refined it in different countries.

Concept / Approach:
Alec Jeffreys, a British geneticist, is credited with developing the first DNA fingerprinting technique in 1984. He discovered that certain regions of human DNA contained variable number tandem repeats that were highly specific to individuals. By using restriction enzymes, gel electrophoresis and hybridisation with specific probes, he showed that each individual had a unique pattern, like a fingerprint. Lalji Singh is known as the father of DNA fingerprinting in India for his contributions to implementing and popularising the technique in that country, but he did not invent it first. The other names listed are not widely recognised as the original developers of DNA fingerprinting.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that DNA fingerprinting emerged in the 1980s as a new tool in genetics and forensics. Step 2: Associate the name Alec Jeffreys with the first demonstration of variable number tandem repeats used to identify individuals. Step 3: Remember that he and his team published landmark papers and applied the technique to immigration and paternity cases in the United Kingdom. Step 4: Recognise that Lalji Singh contributed later by establishing DNA fingerprinting laboratories in India and adapting the method for local use. Step 5: Note that R. Ericson and J. Black do not appear in standard accounts as the original inventors of DNA fingerprinting. Step 6: Conclude that Alec Jeffreys is the correct choice for first developing human DNA fingerprinting.

Verification / Alternative check:
Molecular biology and forensic science references credit Alec Jeffreys with the discovery of DNA fingerprinting in 1984 at the University of Leicester. Biographical summaries mention his accidental observation of unique banding patterns in a family and the subsequent development of the technique. Indian science sources describe Lalji Singh's role in bringing DNA fingerprinting to India and solving local forensic cases, often calling him the father of DNA fingerprinting in India, not worldwide. This clearly supports Alec Jeffreys as the original developer of the technique.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Lalji Singh: A leading Indian molecular biologist who popularised and implemented DNA fingerprinting in India but did not first develop the technique. R. Ericson: Not generally recognised in standard texts as the originator of human DNA fingerprinting. J. Black: Also not cited as the original developer of DNA fingerprinting in the key historical accounts.

Common Pitfalls:
Students in India may be familiar with the name Lalji Singh and quickly choose him, forgetting that the question asks about the first development of DNA fingerprinting in humans, not its introduction in a specific country. To avoid this, remember the distinction between the inventor of a technique and those who later implement or popularise it. Alec Jeffreys is associated with the original invention, while Lalji Singh is linked with its Indian applications.

Final Answer:
The technique of DNA fingerprinting in humans was first developed by Alec Jeffreys.