Forensic Science Technicians
Forensic science technicians collect, identify, classify, and analyze physical evidence related to criminal investigations. They perform tests on weapons or substances, such as fibre, hair, and tissue to determine the significance to the investigation. They testify as expert witnesses on evidence or crime laboratory techniques. They serve as specialists in areas of expertise, such as ballistics, fingerprinting, handwriting, or biochemistry.
In forensic science jobs, scientists examine and analyze evidence from crime scenes and elsewhere to develop the objective of findings in a forensic science technician certificate programs that can assist in the investigation and prosecution of people indulged in a crime or save an innocent person from suspicion. Forensic lab scientists analyze and interpret evidence found at crime scenes including blood, saliva, fibres, tire tracks, drugs, alcohol, paint chips and firearm residue.
To become a crime scene investigator, a degree in forensic science, biological science, chemistry, criminology or psychology and a forensic science technican certificate program is preferable. A qualification in digital media such as photography is extremely beneficial as one needs to gather photographic evidence and film at incident sites. A candidate should get a related work experience with the police, volunteering or internship in crime work, which will give exposure before starting a job.
How to become a forensic technician? To be successful as a crime scene investigator, one needs a variety of skills and qualifications that includes the ability to use various forms of equipment or technology, thorough knowledge of law and rules, good communication and interview skills with qualities of honesty and good ethics.
Qualifications
Every career requires an element of study and academic qualification, and there can be several study routes and pathways you can take. In following any academic pathway you will study subjects that contribute to the specialised knowledge required to achieve your career goals. These qualifications provide a future employer with the evidence that you have the desired knowledge, understanding and experience of their industry, so it’s important to consider the various types of qualifications available to you and to understand how they can boost your career and create opportunities for you.
- M.D. Forensic Science
- B.Sc. Forensic Science
- MBBS Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery
Tasks
- Testify in court about investigative or analytical methods or findings.
- Interpret laboratory findings or test results to identify and classify substances, materials, or other evidence collected at crime scenes.
- Operate and maintain laboratory equipment and apparatus.
- Prepare solutions, reagents, or sample formulations needed for laboratory work.
- Collect evidence from crime scenes, storing it in conditions that preserve its integrity.
- Identify and quantify drugs or poisons found in biological fluids or tissues, in foods, or at crime scenes.
- Reconstruct crime scenes to determine relationships among pieces of evidence.
- Collect impressions of dust from surfaces to obtain and identify fingerprints.
- Analyze gunshot residue and bullet paths to determine how shootings occurred.
- Visit morgues, examine scenes of crimes, or contact other sources to obtain evidence or information to be used in investigations.
Progression Routes
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