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

I was accused of rape by a diabolical tenant and her daughter! I actually sprayed w d40 and it backsplashed right in my face! I was blwng my nose, wiping sweat frm my head & spit in tissue. Cld they wipe Tht on them or in them and claim rape?

Asked by Pes almost 9 years ago

No, because those fluids would not contain acid phosphatase.

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 almost 9 years ago

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

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Asked by Shane over 8 years ago

I think it's unlikely that there wouldn't be any injuries, but I'm afraid I couldn't tell you. You would need a pathologist for that.

Cadaveric spasm has also been called 'instantaneous rigor'. Will muscles/muscle groups frozen from cadaveric spasm 'unfreeze' before the muscles that froze from rigor mortis?

Asked by Tom Phillips about 9 years ago

I'm sorry I can't help but that's a pathology question. I do not know.

what on going knowledge does your job keep up with.

Asked by amelia almost 9 years ago

Our office gets journals from the American Academy of Forensic Sciences and the International Association for Identification, as well as smaller publications like newsletters for the Florida Division of the IAI and the one for the association of Bloodstain Pattern Analysts.

Would it be better to have a bachelors degree in biology? Or a bachelors degree in Criminal Justice focused on forensics?

Asked by Sabrina almost 9 years ago

That depends on what job you're applying for--does it entail more lab work or more scene work? The only way to know for sure is call the places you might want to work and ask, or at least check out job postings online.

During interviews, is there a certain type of "personality" that forensic scientists look for?

Asked by kwow111 over 8 years ago

No, just attention to detail and patience.