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

Hello, I have some questions that I would feel better if I asked through a personal email if that is alright with you. May I ask for your email you?

Asked by YTK111 over 7 years ago

Sure, email me at: lisa-black@live.com

is there a way for me to contact you directly so i can ask more questions

Asked by a student about 7 years ago

Sure you can email me at lisa-black@live.com

What was your first thought when you started your career in forensic science ?

Asked by Krystal over 7 years ago

I’m not sure what you mean—when I decided to go into forensic science (in which case it would be “that sounds really cool, like I could solve mysteries without being a cop”) or more like my very first day on the job (which would be “I hope I don’t screw up “).

How fast would a Chevy Cavalier 2000 year model, 2.2 liter, 4 cylinder, have to go to throw a child less than 80 lbs and 3'7 & 5/8? What would the MPH be????

Asked by Brandy almost 8 years ago

As I am not trained in accident investigation, I wouldn't have any idea.

I am writing a paranormal suspense thriller novel and I need to know if you could figure out a person's identity in 2010 if all you had were the eyeballs and they were preserved since the 1970s.

Asked by Yvonne Schuchart about 7 years ago

My guess would be no. I would think the formaldehyde would destroy the DNA in the cells, though I don’t know for sure, and in any event they weren’t doing DNA in the 70’s so you’d have to find something of the person’s to compare the eyeball DNA. If you have something of the person’s retained from the 70’s, especially hair for example, perhaps there is mitochondrial DNA in some cell in the eyeballs that could still be obtained and compared to the mDNA from the hair.Otherwise I doubt ophthalmologists would take or save retinal scans back in the 70’s. Hope that helps. Best of luck!

What is the best college in Minnesota to get a Forensic Science Bachelor's Degree at?

Asked by Talia about 7 years ago

I have no idea. They didn't have forensic science degrees when I went to school. But I will check with a friend of mine who teaches.

What steps should one take to become a forensic scientist in school? I am currently a student working on a BA in chemistry, but I don't know what the next step is as far as after college.

Asked by Brianne over 7 years ago

A good way to get a handle on the situation is to look at online job postings from places where you might want to work--the local police department, the county morgue, the state crime lab. They will post the duties and requirements for each position. You can also check the same information on the websites of professional organizations such as the American Academy of Forensic Sciences or the International Association for Identification. That should give you a good start.