Which forensic science related job would be best for me based on my interests?
With a forensic science major, I intend to work with trace evidence, but I can't determine which job would allow me to do so. I know of Forensic Anthropologists, Blood Splatter Technicians, Entomologists, etc. but I don't know which of these (and the rest) I would need to work as to be able to collect and work with actual evidence from crime scenes. I suppose my real question is, what is a list of possible jobs (in forensic science) that would allow me to work with evidence? I've searched for an answer, but I keep getting different responses, so I'm hoping someone qualified and knowledgeable can help me figure out what it is that I really want to do. If more information is needed, I will say that I wouldn't mind working with fingerprints, blood, fibers, fluids, and any other evidence. I know I can rule out the DNA matching and toxicology since that is more chemistry related (I prefer biology), but as for information on the others, any help is appreciated.
#career #science #biology #career-paths #forensic #stem #women-in-stem #crime-scene-investigator
2 answers
Ana’s Answer
Many evidences are hidden in the digital world nowadays - think of online searches, text messages, pictures, etc.
If you enjoy technology and working directly with evidence, Digital Forensics might be a path to look into.
Ana recommends the following next steps:
christine’s Answer
Forensic science graduates are highly employable, both in the specialist arena of forensic investigation and in other associated areas requiring an enquiring, scientific and legal mind
Job options
Jobs directly related to your degree include:
•Analytical chemist
•Biomedical scientist
•Forensic scientist
•Scientific laboratory technician
•Teaching laboratory technician
•Toxicologist
Jobs where your degree would be useful include:
•Further education teacher
•Higher education lecturer
•Police officer
•Science writer
•Secondary school teacher
•Solicitor
•Solicitor, Scotland
Remember that many employers accept applications from graduates with any degree subject, so don't restrict your thinking to the jobs listed here.
Related case studies
Shelina
Forensic facial mapping expert
Work experience
It's essential that you gain some laboratory work experience, in order to prove you have the necessary skills, such as attention to detail and accuracy. Work experience is more likely to be found in a scientific or hospital laboratory than a forensic setting due to the sensitive nature of the work. Working for the police is another good option, for example, as a special constable, as this will provide you with a valuable insight into police work and the role of forensics.
Those graduates seeking to extend their laboratory experience may find internships from smaller employers that are initially voluntary but may lead to paid employment.
Search for placements and find out more about work experience and internships.
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Typical employers
The government outsources most of its forensic work, so job opportunities mainly arise in private companies.
Other major employers of forensic science graduates include police support departments and the Ministry of Defence (MoD), particularly the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory. Opportunities can often be found by exploring the strong links between academic departments and employers, so check with your university for potential contacts.
Find information on employers in science and pharmaceuticals, law enforcement and security and other job sectors.
Skills for your CV
Studying forensic science develops skills specific to laboratory work including:
•attention to detail;
•analytical and interpretative skills;
•a methodical approach;
•patience and concentration, as laboratory work can be routine and detailed.
Some skills are transferable, such as:
•team work and working independently;
•presentation skills, as you need to be an effective verbal and written communicator, e.g. court reports.
There are personal qualities that may be useful, such as a resilient outlook, as some work is upsetting or unpleasant. You could be asked to work unsocial hours, so a flexible approach is helpful.
Further study
Typical postgraduate study includes Masters in forensic science, molecular biology or fire investigation. Doctorate research could include drug, perfume or DNA analysis, or terrorism.
A relevant Masters degree or PhD can significantly improve your employment prospects as competition intensifies for jobs. However, it is worth considering that courses can be difficult to fund and demand a higher level of academic ability.
For more information on further study and to find a course that interests you, see Masters degrees and search postgraduate courses.
What do forensic science graduates do?
Laboratory technician is the top job held by graduates employed in the UK six months after graduation.
Destination
Percentage
Employed 70.5
Further study 14.7
Working and studying 4.0
Unemployed 7.9
Other 2.9
Graduate destinations for forensic science
Type of work
Percentage
Technicians and other professionals 23.1
Retail, catering and bar work 20.7
Secretarial and numerical clerks 7.5
Science professionals 7.0
Other 41.7