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

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 over 7 years ago

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

Hi my name Is Gemali Monzon and I go to Chehalis Middle School and we are doing a project on the career we want. I want to be a forensic science technician and would like to interview you. You can get back at me at monzongasparg23@chehalisschool.org

Asked by Gemali Monzon almost 8 years ago

Sure, I'll email you.

I just tried to email you and it came back undeliverable. You can email me at lisa-black@live.com.

For the Ga Fatality Review Board, why wouldnt a minor child who died a Violent death not be in the Statics for that County?

Asked by Brandy almost 8 years ago

I have no idea. You'd have to ask the review board. Since statistics are just numbers, how do you know it's not included?

What are the questions you would ask when you find a fiber?

Asked by Cory over 7 years ago

Well, if it's found on the victim, you might ask if it came from the suspect's clothing/upholstery/etc., and vice versa. Or it could similarly link either party to the crime scene, depending upon the circumstances of the case.

If I decide to pursue forensic science at uni, will I manage if I did not have chemistry in high school (I'm doing the IB)? Of course I do have some knowledge but only basics. will I learn at uni or is it expected of me to have previous knowledge?

Asked by Justyna over 7 years ago

I really don’t know, since my degree is in biology, not forensic science. You should ask one of faculty advisors in the forensic science program at the university (or better yet several universities). You could probably just call the departments on the phone and ask.

Hi there! I was wondering if I can interview you for my school project ? if so please contact me @litzy475@gmail.com

Asked by Litzy garza over 7 years ago

Yes, I'll email you when I'm back at work tomorrow.