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

Can a body be in water and not have rigamortis?

Asked by Amanda Marsh about 7 years ago

As far as I know, water doesn’t change the process of rigor mortis. The temperature of the water may speed it up or slow it down, but the process would still occur.

Does being a forensic scientist allow time to have a family of your own?

Asked by Sophie almost 6 years ago

Yes, of course! You often have to be a little flexible in your schedule, but it's no more a problem than in any other job.

How much school is need to become a forensic scientist, as well as what classes do you need to take?

Asked by Denisse Parada almost 7 years ago

The job requirements are whatever the hiring agency says they are, so it could be anything from a high school diploma to a PhD in genetics. The only way to know is to call the department or check their website for job vacancies.

Why did you want to be in the criminology department?

Asked by jasmine nunez almost 7 years ago

If you have a list of homework questions, please email me at: Lisa-black@live.com

Do you help with Forensic Homework?

Asked by Al over 7 years ago

I think that's what I'm doing most of the time when I answer questions on this site. If you look over the previous Q&As you'll probably see a lot of homework questions.

Do you worry about the corona virus?

Asked by Jamie about 6 years ago

So far it hasn’t come up in my work, and we have lots of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment).

What is your least favorite part of your job?

Asked by Hily about 7 years ago

Being on call and having to leave dinner or get up in the middle of the night to go to a crime scene. And having to schedule vacations and events around whether I can get someone else to cover my call for me.