3 Effective Tips on Becoming Forensic Scientist

Each year employment percentage in the field of Forensic science keeps growing exponentially. Advancement in technology has only contributed to the growth in the field and the retention of employees, which translates to job security. Police and defence have started relying exceptionally on criminal investigation with strong proof in forensics. However, the popularity of the field also means there is a steeper competition to secure prestigious positions in Criminal forensics. Here are a few tips to help you manoeuvre your way to a successful career as a forensic scientist.

Education prerequisites

Bachelor’s degree in either natural science or forensic science can be your chosen course. However, to retain specialized positions in the field you will need to specialize with further training. Some professionals believe that having a pure science degree in a relative field and further specialization might be a better course. This might include a master’s degree in specializations such as DNA analysis or ballistics Computer forensics or Animal forensics are some other specializations. These do not have degrees but competitive training available to hone your skills. You should choose your undergraduate programs with an eye to the final position you want to secure. Toxicology, criminal justice, criminal behaviour and biochemistry are some excellent choices. Expect to put in rigorous laboratory hours and internships before applying for any of the coveted positions in the country.

Understanding what the job description

Many TV series might have overly glamorized the profession; however, you have to be realistic in the job because a lot depends on it. As a forensic scientist recruited by the state, you will have the following responsibilities

• Collect samples from the secure vault or storage- you have to be analyzing samples according to their priority.
• You have to document findings and submit analysis reports to the higher authorities.
• If you are at a higher position within the department, you might have to manage analysts under you. In this case, you will have to authenticate their findings for major cases.
• Most positions require criminal forensic scientists to testify in court as expert witnesses. In this case, your job will be to simplify your reports and present in court so the nonprofessionals in the jury can understand the evidence in the best light.

The right career choice in the vastness of forensics

Your career choice in forensics will be determined by 3 primary factors – your instinct, your interest and your training. Forensics has many different sectors. Here are few choices for a forensic scientist’s career.

• Forensic computer science – a degree in computers and specific focus in forensic computer training are essential.
• Forensic artist – a degree in art as well as a degree in forensics can be your key to landing this career choice. you will need to specifically train for the job during your internship as well
• Forensic psychologist – criminal behaviours and criminal psychology are two main subjects that should feature in bachelors as well as master’s degree. Apart from that, you will need to put in viable internship hours in the field.