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

How many people do you think have committed a crime and came here for help desposing the body and everything else?

Asked by Randlel over 7 years ago

My guess would be 0.Mostly it’s just kids wanting me to answer their homework questions.

I am a student doing a research report, when can we connect?

Asked by Meshya Ragan about 7 years ago

Email me at: lisa-black@live.com.

What is the best way to read the writing imprints left on paper towels or ziplocks without scientific equipment?

Asked by Amyleigh73 almost 8 years ago

I would try oblique lighting—try laying the piece down as flat as possible and then hold a flashlight to the side so the light beam travels across the piece instead of down onto it. Adjust the light to where it’s the most helpful. With the ziploc bag you might also put a piece of dark paper inside it to increase the constraint. That’s all I can think of since I’m not an expert in questioned documents. Best of luck!

I am currently a Forensic Science Major and have to complete an internship, would a wildlife rehab and education center be a good location for this?

Asked by Sosi over 7 years ago

I think that depends entirely on where you live or want to work. If you intend to apply for lab or crime scene work in a large city, then no. If you're going to work crime scene in a remote area with a lot of outdoor scenes and animal activity, then maybe yes. Regardless, an internship at your local forensic facility would be better. If that's not possible, at least call them and ask for their advice.

What is the next step from secondary school in order to become a forensic scientist ?

Asked by Maria over 7 years ago

Go to college and major in forensic science or one of the natural sciences. Best of luck!

Hey got another question what skill do you need to be a forensic scientist

Asked by Sara over 7 years ago

titles and job requirements aren't uniform, so the only way to know is to call the crime labs in your area or whereever you might be interested in working and ask them. You can also go on the websites for professional organizations such as the American Academy of Forensic Sciences and check out their job vacancy postings and see what the various positions require. Good luck.

How long does a body have to be exposed in warm temps before it starts to deteriorate?

Asked by LookingForJustice over 7 years ago

Bodies begin to deteriorate immediately, but the process might progress more slowly or less slowly depending on temperature, humidity, exposure or any medical conditions of the victim.