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

What's one of the weirdest cases you've worked?

Asked by Emily over 8 years ago

Unfortunately I can't really discuss that on a public forum. And they're all weird, in their way.

As a Forensic Scientist, are you legally exempt from being a Juror?

Asked by Ahmed Jordan Ezz Jr. over 8 years ago

This may vary by county or state, but I am not because I'm a civilian employee and not a sworn officer.

Do I need a bachelor's degree in both forensic science and Biology to become a forensic biologist, because many universities i like don't offer forensics, so i'd have to take forensics at a 2 year college and some website say i need bachelors in both

Asked by Ailyn over 8 years ago

That depends on what agencies mean by the title 'forensic biologist' and what your job duties would be. The only way to know that is to contact them and ask. You can also check websites of forensic organizations such as American Academy and the International Association for Identification and look at their job postings. That will give you an idea of requirements for different positions.

So I am going to get my associates degree (and a forensic certification), is that enough to get a job working for a forensic police department?

Asked by Geo about 8 years ago

I have no idea. You'll have to ask the agency to which you are applying. They may all have different requirements.

Do you usually have a lot of free time or none at all?

Asked by Emily over 8 years ago

Not much free time, no. There's always work to do.

After graduation, what do you advice future forensic scientists to do and expect when getting a job in this field?

Asked by kwony123 over 7 years ago

It’s not easy to get a job in this field—there’s a lot of competition and staffs are not as large as you might think. The best thing you can do, after graduation if not before, is get an internship somewhere to get some practical experience and meet people. It will also help if you’re willing to relocate.

What are the best colleges in Minnesota for forensics? I want a 4 year, if possible.

Asked by Sarah almost 8 years ago

I'm afraid I wouldn't have any idea. Call your local crime labs and ask their personnel for suggestions.