About Forensic Scientist Jobs
Forensic science has gained in popularity over the years, helped by television and movies. These scientists work in crime scene investigation departments, picking apart evidence to determine the nature of a crime.
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The Truth
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At the heart of a forensic scientist is the need to discover the truth via scientific method. That is why forensic scientists are employed in many aspects of the criminal justice system. Their work goes beyond what a defense attorney or prosecutor wants to see. A good, ethical forensic scientist only works on the side of truth by examining the physical evidence involved with the criminal setting or circumstances. This could involve anywhere from studying how far blood splattered from a particular location to determining how long a body has been decomposing based on the larvae stage of the flies surrounding it. Forensic science isn't always pretty, but it can be effective.
Education
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According to the American Academy of Forensic Sciences, forensic scientists should possess at least a bachelor's degree in a scientific field to start work. For more advanced forensic scientist jobs, advanced degrees in sciences like chemistry, biology, or math are required. Special courses in a diverse set of fields may be required for forensic scientist work. If a forensic scientist works in a homicide division, she may need to take additional courses related to body decomposition--such as microbiology to study how microbes affect flesh or etymology to identify flora on or near a body.
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Skills and Qualifications
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Forensic scientists must possess and apply their special knowledge and be able to communicate it well. Forensic scientists may be called to testify as a professional witness; therefore, good speaking skills are required. The ability to clearly write a report and take very detailed notes will also come in handy for recall and review purposes. Perhaps the most important qualification a forensic scientist should have is integrity to find and report the truth despite personal feelings or pressure from external forces.
Locations
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Forensic scientists often work with criminal law and the justice system. For forensic scientists working in those fields, locations could be wherever the Drug Enforcement Agency. FBI or local police departments are. Forensic scientists can also work in hospitals and universities as special examiners. They can also work in mortuary affairs, as well as on special teams involved with disaster relief.
Salary
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Forensic scientists generally make a decent salary, regardless of their level of experience or whether employed by the government. But they make far less than doctors and other medical professionals.
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