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How to become a Forensic Scientist

Forensic Scientist

Career progression and salary expectations for a Forensic Scientist

1

Junior Forensic Scientist

| Up to £20,000
2

Forensic Scientist

| Up to £35,000
3

Reporting Scientist

| Up to £45,000

The role of a Forensic Scientist

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
To be a successful Forensic Scientist, you’ll need an enquiring and analytical mind, along with a high level of logic, patience, and concentration.

Because of the intricate detail and complex work involved with gathering, sorting, and analysing evidence, you’ll also need to have an excellent attention to detail combined with great observation skills.

And, if gritty episodes of CSI always make you feel queasy – this role probably isn’t for you.

You’ll also need to be:

  • Confident
  • An excellent communicator
  • Persistent
  • Methodical
  • Objective
  • Accurate
"Although lots of people assume working in forensic science involves spending all hours at a crime scene – it isn’t always that grisly. At least not on a daily basis. My job as a Forensic Scientist is mostly based in a lab, where I carry out experiments on samples, and analyse my findings using technical equipment and software. Although it can be stressful and tedious at times, it’s really fulfilling to know that my work could be helping to solve a crime. The analysis is also understandably pretty full-on, so if you’re not into writing reports and statistics, you might struggle. I also wouldn’t recommend it for anyone with a fear of blood (or any other bodily fluid, for that matter…)"

Get qualified as a Forensic Scientist

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