Forensic Scientist

Forensic Scientist

LIsa Black

Cape Coral, FL

Female, 49

I spent the five happiest years of my life in a morgue. As a forensic scientist in the Cleveland coroner’s office I analyzed gunshot residue on hands and clothing, hairs, fibers, paint, glass, DNA, blood and many other forms of trace evidence, as well as crime scenes. Now I'm a certified latent print examiner and CSI for a police department in Florida. I also write a series of forensic suspense novels, turning the day job into fiction. My books have been translated into six languages.

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Last Answer on July 21, 2022

Best Rated

Do you work with cops on the regular?

Asked by Ronna over 5 years ago

I work in a police department, so yes, work with them every day.Though my immediate coworkers and immediate supervisor are all civilians.

What do you think of Ms. Maxwell? Just whatever you think

Asked by Jim over 5 years ago

I’m sorry but to be honest, I haven’t thought of her at all. I don’t know any more about the case than you do—probably considerably less—and I’m not aware of the relevant forensic evidence. And like most I’ve had many more immediately personal issues to hold my attention in recent months so I’m afraid I can’t help you.

Hello Lisa, what has changed in your job since you started to now

Asked by Jamie almost 4 years ago

The ability to find 'contact' DNA, the improvement and proliferation of video cameras and the improvement and proliferation of downloading cell phone data. I think those are the major points.

Hope that helps!

Do people when you give them your email when they are asking homework or school work questions ever really email you?

Asked by Conner over 5 years ago

Sometimes. Perhaps 10% of the time.

Why do many films try to make it out like the good guys always when when that is not always true? Many people get away, many cases go unsolved, many people are never found, etc. I know God has his vengeance but you know what I am saying

Asked by Joker over 5 years ago

Because films are entertainment, and stories are more satisfying when they have a definite end.

Thanks for your quick response.

Besides black powder, do I need to use a special type of brush and/or lighting such as a UV light to uncover gloveprints?

I should add that the color of the Nitrile gloves I am trying to obtain prints from are blue.

Asked by Richard Gray over 5 years ago

No, just a regular brush, and UV light, as far as anyone here knows, wouldn’t make any difference. The gloves will, however, leave more traces the longer they are worn.

Last question. I'm sorry, these were for my class.
If you were just choosing a career field, would you still choose to be a forensic scientist? Why or why not?

Asked by Jessie almost 4 years ago

Yes, absolutely. I can’t think of anything I’d enjoy as much.