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.

SubscribeGet emails when new questions are answered. Ask Me Anything!Show Bio +

Share:

Ask me anything!

Submit Your Question

989 Questions

Share:

Last Answer on July 21, 2022

Best Rated

What type of education/training does this job need to be successful in this type of work? What type of education/training have you had?

Asked by Violet over 8 years ago

See above. I have a bachelor's degree in biology, plus over a thousand hours of continuing education in forensic topics (accumulated over 20 years).

Hi Ms.Black,I was wondering if you had any advice for a high school junior hoping to get into forensic science?I've been researching colleges and forensic programs in California(where I live) but I hope you can help me understand the process better.

Asked by Brit over 8 years ago

Most agencies do not have huge staffs like on TV, and people tend to stay in the field. Thanks to the TV shows there is a universe more competition than I faced. On the other hand thanks to the current emphasis on forensics, agencies are always expanding--the federal government will be setting mandates and providing grant money to expand labs and services Check out every level (city, county, state, federal) in your area that you can find and also private labs.  Check the websites for the International Association for Identification and the American Academy of Forensic Sciences.  

What is some things people worry about when coming a forensic scientist?

Asked by Kristen over 8 years ago

Usually the biggest worry is getting sick or faint around dead bodies. But actually they rarely do.

can dna from sperm be off an article of clothing?

Asked by Ifeatu about 8 years ago

Yes, absolutely.

How long does it take to get through a really tough case?

Asked by pkdk882 over 8 years ago

That's impossible to answer. Things can range from something like the Orlando shooting, which was massive to process but in terms of 'whodunit' it was over as soon as it began. Then you might have a person shot on the street, no casings, no witnesses--a very simple event, but nearly impossible to solve unless someone talks. Then there's every possible combination in between.

-What is your favorite part of working in forensics?
-Is there anything about this field of work that you don’t like?
-What was your minor in college?
-Are there any classes you suggest taking while in high school?

Asked by shelby over 8 years ago

That every day is different.I don't like after-hours calls. I didn't have a minor. As many science classes as you can.

What do you enjoy most about your job? (Sorry for the typo on the last question, it was supposed to say: "(Thank you for your time in advance)"

Asked by Nate over 8 years ago

All the interesting, different, bizarre stories that make up the crimes that have happened that we have to investigate.