How to Become a Wildlife Forensic Specialist
Wildlife forensic science is a relatively new branch of forensics that deals with criminal acts against animals. The sleuths in this field conduct scientific investigations, prepare reports and testify in court. Wildlife forensic specialists usually work for universities, animal protection groups, or government agencies that focus on foreign trade or wildlife preservation.
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Instructions
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Complete a bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, forensic science or wildlife sciences. Wildlife forensics is a complex field that also requires courses in criminal justice or psychology.
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Obtain professional certifications related to wildlife forensics to give you a leg up on the competition. The Society for Wildlife Forensic Science and the American Board of Criminalistics offer such certification programs.
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Apply for jobs at university wildlife research or forensics labs, private research companies, wildlife activist groups or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. State and national parks and local law enforcement agencies are also good places to start your search.
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Network with others in the field by attending conferences, maintaining professional contact with former instructors or employers, and joining professional wildlife and forensic science organizations. Keep your knowledge of industry news and policy current by subscribing to professional journals. This will help you learn the needs and programs of the agencies you approach for jobs.
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Tips & Warnings
Seek out internships and training positions to gain experience with the policies and procedures for criminal forensic investigation. Aspiring wildlife forensic scientists have few entry-level jobs to choose from, so having this experience can help you to stand out among other applicants or secure a higher-level position.
Make sure your resume includes specific courses or certifications you have completed, as well as any research projects, internships or investigations you have contributed to.
