What Is the Job Description for a Forensic Entomologist?
A forensic entomologist is a scientist specializing in the study of insects, and who applies this expertise to help in legal investigations.
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Responsibilities
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Forensic entomologists collect and analyze specimens and data, and provide professional opinions to the investigating party. They often perform forensic duties on an ad hoc basis; that is, their work as a forensics expert often is secondary to academic research, instruction or other duties.
Types
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Forensic entomologists fall into three categories. Medico-legal entomologists deal with insect relationship to a crime or crime scene. Urban forensic entomologists deal with insect-human interaction on a broader level, though this type of forensic entomology often includes criminal or other legal components. Stored product pest forensic entomologists deal with insects found in food and other consumer products.
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Requirements
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Most forensic entomologists have degrees in zoology, entomology, medicine or a related field. Though not required in order to offer forensic entomology services, the American Board of Forensic Entomology offers a certification that may bolster an entomologist's visibility in the forensic community.
Other Demands
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Forensic entomologists often must deal directly with evidence of crimes, including crimes involving death. They must be able to deal with graphic crime scene evidence as well as competently discuss graphic or disturbing aspects of a criminal investigation.
Compensation
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Compensation for forensic entomologists varies by type of position and relationship with the investigating party. Entomologists seldom are employed as full-time members of a crime scene unit, and they typically are compensated as consultants. In contrast, some entomologists, particularly those who don't specialize as forensic experts, may provide services free of charge.
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References
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