Looking for a career in science? Forensics might be in your DNA…
Forensic Scientists use various types of scientific and mathematical analysis to assess the evidence found at crime scenes.By examining a range of (potentially unpleasant) biological and physical substances (such as blood, hair, bodily fluids etc.), they’re able to provide links to suspects and victims – which may help towards solving crimes.
The types of crime scenes and materials they analyse will usually depend on their specialism – which could include chemistry, biology, or drugs and toxicology. Although they’re usually based in a lab, Forensic Scientists may also be required to visit crime scenes to observe the evidence first-hand.
General duties for a Forensic Scientist include:
- Investigating crime scenes and collecting evidence
- Using scientific techniques and procedures to test samples
- Carrying out DNA profiling and blood grouping
- Testing for traces of drugs and poisons in biological samples
- Using computer systems to extract and input data
- Sorting, categorising, and comparing evidence
- Creating written reports to document findings