forensic science education

Forensic Science Education

Dr. Jason LinvilleUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham

[email protected]

Forensic Science Education

Finding a Forensic Jobor

The Beginning

“Neato. Maybe I want to be a forensic scientist.”

Questions:

What does a forensic scientist do?

What type of education is needed for the job?

Summary

Jobs in Forensic Science

Education in Forensic Science

Finding a Job in Forensic Science

Forensic Science

George W. Bush American

Dick Cheney

Forensic Science

Let’s GO!

Summary





Many Areas:

• Fingerprinting• Firearms• Documents• Trace Evidence

• DNA • Drugs• Related Areas


What would I do?

Where would I work?

What are the advancement opportunities?

How much money would I make?

Two main areas of forensic science:

Forensic Chemistry

Forensic Biology

Other areas (entomology, psychiatry, odontology, etc.)


Forensic Chemistry


• Drugs• Trace• Firearms

• Fingerprints• Arson

What does the analyst do?

Forensic Chemistry (inside the lab)


Instrumental Analysis• GC/MS, Infrared spectroscopy

Database Analysis• Fingerprint, ballistic search

Microscopic Analysis• Fibers, drugs, hair, trace

Forensic Chemistry (outside the lab)


Crime Scene Work• Not necessarily required

Scientific Meetings• Presentations, continuing education

Court Testimony

Forensic Biology (inside the lab)


DNA Extraction and Amplification• Pipettes and small tubes

Instrumental and Computer Analysis• Generates a genetic profile

Forensic Serology• Detecting blood or semen stains

Forensic Biology (outside the lab)


Crime Scene Work• Not necessarily required

Scientific Meetings• Presentations, continuing education

Court Testimony

Many fields of study have forensic applications:

Forensic scientists in these fields are educated in the general field, then specialize in the forensic application of the science.


• Forensic Entomology• Forensic Anthropology• Forensic Odontology• Forensic Pathology




Entomologists and Anthropologists most likely work mainly in a University setting.




Forensic Odontologists are probably practicing dentists.




Forensic Pathologists are probably full-time Forensic Pathologists.


What would I do?

Where would I work?



Forensic Scientist or Criminalist (entry level):• In Alabama, enter as Forensic Scientist I • Perform analysis & testify


Forensic Scientist and Criminalist II - IV• Can have additional supervisory duties• Sometimes other titles (technical leader or coordinator)

Director or Assistant Director


What would I do?

Where would I work?



Where would I work?


1. State Agency

2. Federal Agencies

• State Police• State Bureau of Investigation• County or City Crime Labs

• FBI• DEA

• ATF• Armed Forces

• Secret Service• U.S. Postal Service


3. Private Labs

4. Non Forensic Laboratories

• Private DNA Labs• Paternity Labs• Drug Analysis

• Analytical Chemistry• Research Labs

• Pursue an advanced degree

Where would I work?


What would I do?

Where would I work?




Money?

• Marry a rich person

• Entry Level: $30,000 – $40,000


What do I need to get a job?

• B.S.?• Masters?• Ph.D.?

• Law Degree?• Medical Degree?

In my personal opinion, a Masters Degree in Forensic Sciencewill best prepare an individual for a career in forensic science.

Undergraduate Education:

What’s my major?

Myth: Forensic Science is half science and half criminal justice

Fact: Forensic Science is mostly science


Undergraduate Education:

What’s my major?Chemistry or Biology (B.S.)

Forensic Science (B.S.) (also Forensic Chemistry or Forensic Biology)

B.S. in Forensic Science may help,

but does not guarantee a job after undergrad.


Undergraduate Programs:

• University of New Haven• West Virginia University• Florida International University • Ohio University


Complete List: American Academy of Forensic Sciences www.aafs.org


Masters of Science in Forensic Science

• Masters Degree makes you more competitive compared to B.S. applicants

• Allows for additional lab experience including internships

Graduate Education:

• Allows for promotion to supervisory positions


Graduate Programs:

Complete List: American Academy of Forensic Sciences www.aafs.org

• University of Alabama at Birmingham• University of New Haven• Marshall University• University of Illinois - Chicago • George Washington University


Education for Other Areas:

• Forensic Entomology• Forensic Anthropology• Forensic Psychiatry

Requires a Ph.D.

Research mentor should work in the field.


Education for Other Areas:

• Forensic Odontology• Forensic Pathology

Requires a M.D. or dental degree (D.D.S.)

May be specialized degree programs.

FORENSIC CHEMIST

The Oakland County Human Resources Office is seeking applicants for the position of Forensic Chemist. Qualifications include a bachelor's degree with a major in chemistry, biology, microbiology, biochemistry, forensic science; AND two (2) years experience in a lab with analysis in controlled substances, trace evidence, and/or serology. A master's degree in one of the fields listed may substitute for one (1) year experience. Applicants must not have been convicted of a violation of criminal law. Responsibilities include the analysis, identification, and classification of a variety of trace/chemical evidence and preserves it for future court room testimony; using a variety of analytical instrument techniques to characterize materials and identify samples and specimens; testifying in court as an expert witness regarding evidence and forensic laboratory techniques; conferring with experts when reviewing evidence; performing routine maintenance on laboratory equipment as required; preparing and conducting presentations to community organizations; assisting with training new personnel; preparing reports, correspondence and records; and, coordinating the destruction of evidence. The above job description is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be all inclusive or limiting as to specific duties. All persons interested in applying for this examination must complete the required official Oakland County Merit System employment application forms, and submit these forms directly to the Personnel Department. Salary: $49,126 - $64,434/annual.

FORENSIC SCIENTISTS - ENTRY LEVEL AND LEVEL I

(Posted 6/27/03)The Oregon State Police Forensic Services Division is seeking applicant for Forensic Scientist Entry and Forensic Scientist I level positions for all disciplines including controlled substance, toxicology, DNA, latent prints, crime scenes, and primary evidence evaluation. Application forms may be obtained from any local office of the Oregon Employment Department, most state agency personnel offices, or at the following website - www.oregonjobs.org. If you have a disability and need an alternate format, call the Personnel Services Section at (503) 378-3720 Ext 4711. For any inquiries or questions regarding the application process or these positions, please email [email protected].

DRUG ANALYST

(Posted 8/19/03)The Hamilton County Coroner's Crime Laboratory is seeking applicants for the position of Drug Analyst. Qualifications include a BS/BA degree in forensic science or some other natural science from an accredited college. Applicants must have completed an internship in a forensic lab. Responsibilities include analyzing and identifying controlled substances by instrumental means to meet the requirements of a Rapid Indictment Program. Salary: $33,467/annual. Applicants selected for interviews pay their own travel and expenses. Lab is accredited by ASCLD/LAB and NAME.

CONTACT:William L. Dean 3159 Eden AvenueCincinnati, OH 45219 (513) 946-8755 Fax: (513) 946-8772 [email protected] www.hamilton-co.org/coroner

FORENSIC DNA ANALYSTS

(Posted 7/16/03)Orchid Cellmark, currently seeks Forensic DNA Analysts for its Germantown, MD, facility. Analysts are responsible for performing DNA Profiling procedures including conducting DNA purification, PCR amplification, fluorescent DNA analysis and various other laboratory skills and techniques on forensic high-throughput criminal casework samples. Scientists will also interpret test results, and provide court testimony as required. Candidates must possess a BS degree in a biological science. Minimum six months to one year of forensic DNA experience. Experience with ABI 377, 3100 or 310 Genesequencers desirable. Excellent written and oral communications skills required. Candidates must submit transcripts from degree programs to verify satisfaction of ASCLD-LAB requirements. Please submit resume, cover letter with salary history, and transcripts. For immediate consideration e-mail cover letter and resume to [email protected].

Note about Crime Scene Work:

• Some, but not all, forensic scientists work crime scenes

• System varies from region to region• Death scene investigator is a real job

Landing your ideal job requires patience and the ability to relocate.


CSI: Fact or Fiction?

Fact:

Crime scene investigators do existInvestigation system varies from region to region

Fiction:

They do too much!

Not very likely that they dramatically communicate with the victims or suspects


Thank you, Internet.

• American Academy of Forensic Science (AAFS)

• Crime Lab Directors (ASCLD)

www.aafs.org

www.ascld.org• State or Federal Web Pages

• Word of Mouth (through University)


Interview Process:• Extensive Background Check

Past Landlords Past Employers

• Polygraph

• Relatively Strict on Past Drug Use


Job Availability:

10,000 positions to fill,

but no money to pay employees.

Flexibility in relocation greatly enhances your chances of getting a job.

Web Links American Academy of Forensic Sciences -

www.aafs.org American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors

www.ascld.org List of Graduate Programs

http://www.gradschools.com/listings/all/forensic.html FSU Professor Opinion

http://www.criminology.fsu.edu/faculty/nute/FScareers.html

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