Forensic Scientist

What is a forensic Scientist?

A forensic scientist is a crime scene investigator who uses forensic analysis and software to help solve crimes. He or she may work in DNA analysis (one of the most popular specialization options for forensic scientists), weapons analysis, or other fields of forensics to match suspects to a crime. Forensic scientists use biological evidence to match perpetrators to a crime, examine materials at a crime scene, recreate ballistics and scenarios, and are also required to keep close documentation, including cataloguing crime scene pictures and properly storing evidence. They must then create reports that document their findings to be submitted to attorneys, police officers, detectives, and judges. Forensic scientists are often called upon to act as expert witnesses, detailing their forensic findings in a courtroom in an effort to convince a jury of a suspect’s guilt or innocence. Some forensic scientists, especially those who are highly educated and have elite expertise, may contract out these services privately.

Forensic scientists are often required to travel to reach crime scenes, but otherwise can expect to spend most of their work time in a laboratory. Forensic scientists must become experts at working with some of the most advanced equipment available. In addition to being technically skilled and knowledgeable in chemistry, biology, and computer science, forensic scientists must also be creative and attentive to particulars, as crime scene investigation requires noticing minute details and picking up on specifics that most would overlook.

Before pursuing a forensic science career, an individual should carefully ask himself such questions as:
• Am I comfortable working in a sensitive criminal environment, requiring handling biological materials, and working with those who have committed violent offenses?
• Am I prepared to work with ever-evolving technologies, often managing machines and software myself?
• Am I comfortable working in a laboratory setting?
• Do I want to work in the criminal justice system, with attorneys, police, and investigators?
• Am I prepared to study advanced science courses, particularly in chemistry and biology?

How do I become a forensic scientist?

In order to become a forensic scientist, an applicant must usually earn a bachelor’s degree. The most successful job candidates have at least a bachelor’s degree, and sometimes a master’s degree, in forensic science or a related field. However, those with degrees in chemistry, biology, computer science, or mathematics may also be eligible if they have also taken steps to familiarize themselves with forensic technologies and criminal procedures. While in school, future forensic scientists should seek out internship opportunities with law enforcement or detective agencies that allow them the chance to get hands-on experience with equipment and software. Individuals may also wish to find some field work that is more closely related to criminal proceedings, such as in law offices. The more experienced a candidate is at working directly with crime scene investigations, the better his or her chances of being hired will be.

What can I expect in a career in forensic science?

Of all science technician careers, the field of forensic science is expecting some of the fastest growth, mostly at the state and local government level. The entire criminal justice industry is expanding, and becoming increasingly reliant on technologies. Therefore, those individuals who have the most expertise in technologies will have the best career opportunities. Altogether, the forensic science field is anticipating a 20% growth over the next ten years.

Most forensic scientists are paid hourly, with earnings averaging around $23.97 per hour. Some forensic scientists may go through periodic bouts of unemployment, because the amount of work available depends on the criminal activity in their place of employment at any given time. Some forensic scientists can increase their yearly earnings by working as expert witnesses in high-profile cases.