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How to become a Forensic Scientist

Forensic Scientist jobs

908

Forensic Scientist courses

Career progression and salary expectations for a Forensic Scientist

Junior Forensic Scientist

| Up to £20,000

Forensic Scientist

| Up to £35,000

Reporting Scientist

| Up to £45,000

The role of a Forensic Scientist

What does a Forensic Scientist do?

Looking for a career in science? Forensics might be in your DNA…

Forensic Scientists use various types of scientific and mathematical analysis to assess the evidence found at crime scenes.By examining a range of (potentially unpleasant) biological and physical substances (such as blood, hair, bodily fluids etc.), they’re able to provide links to suspects and victims – which may help towards solving crimes.

The types of crime scenes and materials they analyse will usually depend on their specialism – which could include chemistry, biology, or drugs and toxicology. Although they’re usually based in a lab, Forensic Scientists may also be required to visit crime scenes to observe the evidence first-hand.

General duties for a Forensic Scientist include:

Investigating crime scenes and collecting evidence
Using scientific techniques and procedures to test samples
Carrying out DNA profiling and blood grouping
Testing for traces of drugs and poisons in biological samples
Using computer systems to extract and input data
Sorting, categorising, and comparing evidence
Creating written reports to document findings

Is a career as a Forensic Scientist right for me?

To be a successful Forensic Scientist, you’ll need an enquiring and analytical mind, along with a high level of logic, patience, and concentration.

Because of the intricate detail and complex work involved with gathering, sorting, and analysing evidence, you’ll also need to have an excellent attention to detail combined with great observation skills.

And, if gritty episodes of CSI always make you feel queasy – this role probably isn’t for you.

You’ll also need to be:

Confident
An excellent communicator
Persistent
Methodical
Objective
Accurate

What's it like to be a Forensic Scientist?

"Although lots of people assume working in forensic science involves spending all hours at a crime scene – it isn’t always that grisly. At least not on a daily basis. My job as a Forensic Scientist is mostly based in a lab, where I carry out experiments on samples, and analyse my findings using technical equipment and software. Although it can be stressful and tedious at times, it’s really fulfilling to know that my work could be helping to solve a crime. The analysis is also understandably pretty full-on, so if you’re not into writing reports and statistics, you might struggle. I also wouldn’t recommend it for anyone with a fear of blood (or any other bodily fluid, for that matter…)"

Get qualified as a Forensic Scientist

You’ll usually need a degree in forensic science to become a Forensic Scientist, and many will have postgraduate qualifications. However, it is possible to start in an entry level position, such as a Forensics Lab Support Assistant (providing you have the relevant A levels and work experience) and undertake relevant Forensic Science courses – where you’ll be able to progress within the industry.

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