forensic+chemist

Forensic Chemist

Job description- apply knowledge from diverse discliplines to the analysis of evidence found at crime scenes

Personality characters- Versatility and patience are the most often cited qualities of a forensic chemist. Forensic chemists must be able to spend hours rigorously applying analytical techniques to evidence and then defending their work in a court of law. They must be able to clearly and concisely answer challenges to their findings. Integrity is also an important characteristic, because it is not unusual for the different interests in a case to try to sway the forensic chemist's position.

Working Conditions- Forensic chemists generally work in government labs, which can be small, understaffed, and underfunded. They spend time preparing and giving testimony in court.

Places of Employment- Most labs are associated with a federal, state, or local police department, medical examiner's office, forensic services lab, or branch of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. There are some private labs that carry out forensic analyses.

Job Outlook- The forensic science field is guardedly optimistic about job prospects for the future. Greater interest in the use of DNA analysis is expected to create more jobs. Those interested in DNA work should keep up with the rapidly changing technology and develop skills that distinguish them from the pack

Salary Info- For forensic chemists with a B.S. degree, incomes start in the high $30,000s per year. The median salary is $50,000. Chemists at the high end are paid more than $60,000 per year. Scientists involved with fingerprint analysis are on the lower end of the pay scale.

Recommended Education and Training- A strong background in chemistry and instrumental analysis as well as a good grounding in criminalistics is vital. A forensic science degree at both the undergraduate and graduate level is recommended. Those interested in working with trace evidence, such as glass, hair, and paper, should focus on instrumentation skills and take courses in geology, soil chemistry, and materials science. If forensic biology and DNA analysis are preferred, take microbiology, genetics, and biochemistry courses. Those interested in the toxicological aspects of this work should study physiology, biochemistry, and chemistry.