FORENSIC SCIENTIST

Forensic Scientist



Forensic Scientist

Introduction

Forensic scientists use cutting-edge scientific techniques to preserve and examine evidence and develop investigative leads in connection with civil and criminal proceedings. Their job duties fall into two basic categories: analyzing evidence and acting as expert witnesses in legal proceedings. Forensic scientists collect, identify, and analyze physical evidence related to criminal investigations and testify as expert witnesses on evidence or crime laboratory techniques. Forensic scientists often specialize in a particular area of expertise, such as ballistics, DNA analysis, fingerprinting, handwriting, toxicology or biochemistry.

Education

While some forensic scientists hold a certificate or associate's degree, candidates with bachelor's degrees will find the most career opportunities. Degrees in biology, chemistry, forensic science, pre-med, microbiology or related natural science field are common for careers in forensic science. Some forensic scientists possess advanced degrees; those who provide expert analysis and testimony often have a Ph.D. or master's degree in their field of expertise.

Skills

Excellent communication skills are important in order to convey findings and testify in court. Forensic scientists must also possess strong analytical skills, attention to detail and objectivity to analyze evidence and interpret scientific results. A background in law enforcement and an understanding of, or experience with, the law and legal procedures can be helpful.

Work Environment

Forensic scientists are employed in a number of work environments including police departments, government agencies, investigation and security service organizations, prosecutors' offices, law firms, medical and diagnostic laboratories, insurance companies, hospitals and consulting firms. Some specialists are self-employed, such as those who offer testimony as expert witnesses.

Current Perception of Forensic Science

Before discussing the current perception of forensic science, this discussion focuses on stages commonly involved in adapting society's concept of malicious use of various technologies. First is a realization by consumers that the new technology can be used for unauthorized and possibly unlawful purposes. Growing concern follows as incidents take place and become more serious. The increasing volume of misuse and percentage of unlawful activity eventually causes authorities to recognize that they need some level of expertise to help identify, understand, and thwart any future wrongdoing. Authorities then cultivate certified expertise, building on a deeper understanding of the problem, its symptoms, and the motivations of those involved in wrongful activities.

Based on these stages, the depth of their implementation becomes a function of several related factors. The first factor addresses the complexity involved in the technology. True subject matter experts are required to have a complete understanding of the associated technology as a prerequisite to stating conclusions about the evidence. The second factor is that sufficient research must employ the techniques needed to examine and analyze evidence that could become proof. Up to the present, actions to address both of these related factors have been closely aligned with the formation and evolution of most forensic disciplines.

Due in large part to our focus on entertainment in western society, the word forensic conjures up specific images, such as those on television programs like “Quincy ME,” Discovery Channel's “The New Detectives,” and “CSI: Crime Scene ...