How to Understand the Job of a CSI Professional

CSI professionals have one of the most unique jobs in the world. They are involved in crime scenes, but aren't detectives. They spend a good portion of their time testifying in trials, but they aren't judges or lawyers. More than 80 percent of their time is spent in laboratories, but they aren't technically scientists. The job of those in CSI is to collect, analyze and interpret the evidence found at crime scenes. Following are some tips for understanding the job of those in CSI.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Collecting evidence at crime scenes is the first job of those in CSI. They search for tiny fibers, take samples of fluids, form impressions of tool marks and collect bullets from the objects in which they lodge.
2. Reconstructing crime scenes is also an important job of those in CSI. Reconstruction can take place while the crime scene is still in situ (where nothing has been moved), or it can be done later with props at the lab.
3. Transporting evidence to the laboratory is the next job of those in CSI. Evidence is kept in bags, buttons and tubes to be analyzed further by scientists. Sometimes CSI professionals perform the experiments and tests, though often an expert or scientist does them instead.
4. Interpreting the results of toxicology screens, DNA analysis, fingerprint examinations and chemical tests are also an important part of the CSI job. This might include determining the origin of a granule of sand or discovering the shoe type and size of a print found at the scene.
5. Canvassing the residences, offices and cars of suspects is an integral part of a CSI professional's job. Trace evidence and fluids can be found at places other than where the crime actually took place and CSI professionals will be called there, as well.
6. Continuing their education of forensics and technology is one of the most important aspects of a CSI professional's job. Because advances are made nearly every day, they must stay on top of the latest discoveries.

Tips & Warnings

• Understand that a CSI professional will often have to branch out into new areas of forensics in order to process a crime scene.
• Visit the Crime Scene Investigator Web site to learn more about the specific roles of CSI professionals in the investigation process.
• Check out Reddy's forensic page for links to job listings and CSI advice.