What does a forensic scientist do?

A forensic scientist collects, documents, and analyzes evidence in criminal investigations. They often perform tests on evidence to identify unknown substances. Forensic scientists may also testify in court about the tests they performed and the results of their analysis. In some agencies, related jobs may be called forensic investigators or crime scene specialists, though these roles can have different responsibilities.
 

What does a typical day look like in this job? 

In Arizona, forensic scientists often work in crime laboratories, medical examiner offices, or law‑enforcement agencies. Forensic scientists have many different responsibilities, and these responsibilities can vary from day to day. Sometimes, forensic scientists work in the field. Field work can include examining and photographing a crime scene, collecting evidence, and transporting evidence from a crime scene to a designated location.  
 
Other times, forensic scientists may work in a lab setting. In the lab, forensic scientists perform scientific tests to identify or evaluate evidence, such as DNA analysis or fingerprint comparison. They also perform comparisons to other evidence or evidence standards. In some specialized roles, forensic scientists might attend autopsies to take photographs or collect fingerprints.

What skills or abilities are important for this job? 

Forensic scientists need to have good organizational skills. It is very important that the evidence collected and analyzed by forensic scientists is organized and documented properly so that it can be used in criminal investigations. Additionally, forensic scientists must have good verbal and written communication skills so that they can communicate their findings to other people. 
 
Forensic scientists need to understand the laws that relate to forensic activities. This includes the policies and procedures of the agency or crime lab the scientist is working for as well as the state and federal laws about forensic operations. They also need to be aware of lab and chemical safety protocols so that they can work safely and successfully in a laboratory. Attention to detail and critical thinking skills are also important, since even small mistakes can affect a case.

What kind of education, certification, or training is required? 

The required education for a forensic scientist varies depending on where they are employed, but most employers require a bachelor’s degree in a field related to forensic science. These include degrees in forensic science, natural science, biology, or chemistry. Some forensic units have more specific educational requirements. For example, the controlled substances unit may require a forensic scientist to complete a certain number of college chemistry courses. 
 
Forensic scientists usually have to go through additional training once they are hired. These can include fingerprint classification trainings or forensic laboratory trainings. Additionally, there are many national organizations and colleges that offer certifications that may be helpful for forensic scientists. These include certifications in crime scene investigation, forensic DNA, and drug analysis. While certification is not always required, it can help show advanced knowledge and experience.

What is most challenging about this job? 

One challenging part about being a forensic scientist is having to work in very upsetting environments. Forensic scientists often work at crime scenes, where they may see people who have died, bodily fluids, or other emotional situations. These situations can happen anywhere, including outside in very hot weather. A forensic scientist needs to be able to stay calm and focused even when the situation is sad or uncomfortable. This can be very difficult and emotionally draining, but forensic scientists are trained to handle these situations so that they can do their jobs well. In lab-based roles, the pressure to avoid mistakes and meet deadlines can also be challenging, since test results may affect someone’s freedom or future.

What is the average salary in Arizona? 

Visit Zip Recruiter to see recent information about the average salary of a forensic scientist in Arizona.