Forensic Entomologist Training

Forensic entomologists examine insect evidence at crime scenes.

In A.D. 1235, Chinese investigator Sung Tz'u detailed a forensic entomology case in his book "The Washing Away of Wrongs." In his account, a village investigator solved a murder by commanding citizens to display their sickles in a predetermined place. One sword attracted flies to human tissue still on the blade, according to the American Board of Forensic Entomology (ABFE). A murder confession followed. Modern-day forensic entomologists examine insect and arthropod evidence for legal cases.

Education

While universities do offer advanced degrees in forensic entomology, you can pursue a master of science or doctorate in biology or other related field instead. The ABFE recognizes M.S. or Ph.D. degrees in "entomology, biology, zoology or ecology," according to the ABFE.

Certification

You can obtain different certifications to boost your career as a forensic entomologist. The ABFE offers two certification levels: member status and diplomate status. Both certifications demand stringent education, publication and experience requirements, as well as an examination, according to the ABFE. Diplomate status demands more rigorous requirements, such as a Ph.D. and additional publications and presentations. The Entomological Society of America also offers certification, with two different levels for scientists with an M.S. or Ph.D., according to the ESA.

Function

An M.S. or Ph.D. ensures that you possess relevant scientific knowledge to accurately analyze evidence. In addition, the casework experience required for certification trains you in legal standards, such as chain of custody for evidence and proper documentation procedures. Publication requirements for certification bolster your expert credentials, advance entomological research and improve the reputation of forensic entomology with the courts and American public.

Historic First

Neal Haskell, a professor of biology at Saint Joseph's College and a forensic entomologist, earned the first Ph.D. in forensic entomology from Purdue University in 1991, according to a 2001 article in "The Scientist."

Significance

Police departments rarely include forensic entomologists as routine members of their crime scene teams, but rigorous certification and education on par with medical and legal professionals may help to turn this situation around, according to the ABFE. As a well-trained forensic entomologist, you can educate law enforcement on the contributions of insect evidence. Increased recognition of forensic entomology might attract more scientists to the field. Although crime dramas often use insect evidence, as of 2010, the supply of board certified forensic entomologists remains short. The worldwide directory of forensic entomologists lists just 62 members, according to the ABFE.

References

• American Board of Forensic Entomology: History
• American Board of Forensic Entomology: Certification
• Entomological Society of America: Certification
• "The Scientist": "Where the Bugs Are: Forensic Entomology"
• American Board of Forensic Entomology: Professional Status

Resources

• Forensic Entomologist: Forensic Entomology at Texas A & M University