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

Please email me, I have tried to learn Forensics for my child's case, due to the Law lacking in Preserving and Safe Guarding evidence and lacking any witness statemnets although there was alit of people as potential witnesses?

Asked by Brandy about 8 years ago

Witness statements would be included with the officer's work, not the forensics unit. I'm sorry for your loss. Is there a victim's advocate at the police department that handled the crash that could help you? They could walk you through where to find all the information you want. You didn't include your email address.

Hi I’m in 9th grade doing an interview project-How much does a person usually make in this career? What kind of lifestye does this career provide? What skills should I develop for this career? What are the day to day duties of this job?

Asked by Mandy P. over 7 years ago

Email me at Lisa-black@live.com and I’ll send answers.

-What is your favorite part of working in forensics?
-Is there anything about this field of work that you don’t like?
-What was your minor in college?
-Are there any classes you suggest taking while in high school?

Asked by shelby about 8 years ago

That every day is different.I don't like after-hours calls. I didn't have a minor. As many science classes as you can.

What time span does the investigation autopsy go for on average?

Asked by bart white over 7 years ago

The average autopsy takes 1 to 4 hours.

1: What is required for your current position? Could you explain a typical day in your career? 2: what inspired you to choose this career? 3: What are some likes and dislikes about your job? what would you do change about your job?

Asked by my name is Brent and im doing a project for class where I have to ask someone with my dream job a few questions. almost 8 years ago

For homework assignments can you please email me offline at: lisa-black@live. com and I can send you a list of answers to these types of questions.

What are the educational requirements for an entry-level position in this line of work?

Asked by Violet over 8 years ago

The requirements are whatever your employer says they are (same with your job title). DNA analysts are often required to have a PhD in genetics. At the coroner's I had to have a BS in one of the natural sciences. At my police department they only require a high school diploma, but give extra points for advanced schooling so we all have BSs. 

If a deceased is found on a soft surface such as a bed with no lividity or rigor mortis, what can be said about the estimated time of death?

Asked by Erica M over 8 years ago

Whether a surface is soft or hard wouldn't affect the presence of lividity or rigor mortis, they would develop regardless. It might affect the pattern of lividity (whiter at the pressure points).