Is there specific types of forensic scientist?

Hi Jammy,

By its simplest definition, forensics refers to the application of scientific techniques and principles to the law. The term “forensic” is derived from the Latin word forensis, which means public or pertaining to a forum.

Today, forensics encompasses a wide range of disciplines within the criminal justice system. Forensics has become synonymous with forensic science and there are numerous subdivisions that fall under this broad umbrella. Criminal forensic specialists may work in a number of different settings, including scientific laboratories, hospitals, correctional facilities, state and federal law enforcement agencies, and other government organizations. The following are just a few of the more popular career paths in the forensic sciences.

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  Forensic Psychology
  Forensic psychology is essentially where the field of psychology meets the law. In reality, forensic psychologists work within the criminal justice system to assess the mental health of individuals who have been charged with a crime. They may be asked to determine if a suspect is competent to stand trial or make recommendations regarding an offender’s sentencing or treatment.

  
  


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  Forensic Pathology
  When a death occurs, it may be up to the forensic pathologist to determine how and why the victim died. Pathologists are charged with performing autopsies and using their findings to pinpoint the cause and manner of death. Autopsies may be performed in cases where foul play is suspected or when the death is unusual or sudden.

  
  


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  Forensic Anthropology
  In cases where human remains are severely decomposed, the help of a forensic anthropologist may be necessary. Forensic anthropology primarily focuses on the study of the human skeleton to find clues regarding the individual’s identity, determine the cause of death, and/or uncover evidence of a crime.

  
  


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  Crime Scene Investigation
  Crime scene investigation is all about documenting the scene of the crime. It is the job of the crime scene investigator to carefully comb the crime scene taking photos, looking for hairs, blood, fibers, fingerprints, bullet fragments, and other pieces of evidence that might point to a suspect or help to formulate a theory of what events took place. Crime scene investigators are generally police officers and may have little to no scientific training.

  
  


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  Criminalistics
  Criminalistics refers to the scientific analysis of evidence collected from the crime scene. Criminalists analyze physical evidence in the crime lab, including hairs, fibers, gunshot residue, arson accelerants, and body fluids such as blood or saliva (for DNA testing). Criminalists have strong science backgrounds, usually in chemistry, biology, or related subjects.

  
  


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  Forensic Nursing
  Forensic nursing is an emerging field in forensic sciences that acts as a bridge between the medical profession and the criminal justice system. Forensic nurses are frequently called on to assist in investigations involving the victims or perpetrators of sexual abuse, domestic assault, child abuse, or other types of trauma. They’re responsible for collecting blood and hair samples, DNA, and other evidence.

  
  

Forensic science is more than just what you see on television. There may be dozens of people who are involved in a criminal investigation and there’s a significant need for individuals with specialized skills and training. With so many subdisciplines to choose from, the field of forensic science offers a virtually limitless number of career paths to students who are interested in the mechanics of crime-solving.

More in: http://discovercriminaljustice.com/articles/beyond-forensic-science-the-different-types-of-forensics/

Best!