Forensic Scientist

Forensic Scientist

LIsa Black

Cape Coral, FL

Female, 49

I spent the five happiest years of my life in a morgue. As a forensic scientist in the Cleveland coroner’s office I analyzed gunshot residue on hands and clothing, hairs, fibers, paint, glass, DNA, blood and many other forms of trace evidence, as well as crime scenes. Now I'm a certified latent print examiner and CSI for a police department in Florida. I also write a series of forensic suspense novels, turning the day job into fiction. My books have been translated into six languages.

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Last Answer on July 21, 2022

Best Rated

Accused of rape, she has changed the times from morning to night, claims semen was in her knickers but if it happened at night semen would of turned to water?

Asked by Pat almost 3 years ago

I have no idea what you mean by ‘water’ and I don’t see why nighttime would make a difference.

On a scale of 1-10 how hard is it to be a forensic scientist.

Asked by Fayyad almost 4 years ago

7

Hi Lisa! Besides taking science based classes, I also want to shadow some criminalists that I connected with on LinkedIn. Have you ever shadowed/had someone shadow you? What was it like?

Asked by Theresa over 3 years ago

Sure, I visited crime labs and the coroner’s office before I got my first forensics job—usually it was just a tour and answering questions though I got to sit in with a police class at the coroner’s and view an autopsy and hear some lectures. Then I would do the same when we had visiting students. Interns are here for a longer period. We usually have them do minor paperwork and tasks and they can observe our work with evidence, fingerprints, scenes, etc so we can explain what we’re doing and why. It’s a great experience. I think you’ll find people in forensics very friendly and helpful. Best of luck to you!

What is the outlook for employment? What is the level of education required? What do you like most about your career? What do you like least? What special skills are required? Are there any special physical demands?

Asked by Jessie over 3 years ago

Job requirements depend on the job. Requirements might range from a HS diploma to a PhD. Check the websites of forensic professional organizations (IAI, AAFS, pathology or other disciplines) for job vacancies. I like the variability of the days.I dislike the hours, which can be unpredictable, and require being ‘on call.’

Is there anyone special you worked with?

Asked by Jason about 3 years ago

Could you clarify that question? I'm not sure what mean.

Since, you are in the forensics field. Do you know anything about forensic toxicologists? If so can you elaborate on what you know about this field?

Asked by GunKillerOdin about 3 years ago

Unfortunately, no, I cannot. I've never worked in toxicology. Sorry I couldn't help.

how long can a DNA be found on a dried semen stain on skin considering the swab was taken after ejaculation's by more than 36 hours and the skin area haven't been washed

Asked by jo about 3 years ago

If the stain is still visible, then clearly the semen is still there, so I see no reason why it wouldn't still have DNA in it. There might be a mixture from swabbing up the skin cells as well as the stain.

Hope that helps!