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

I’m positive that there was a lot of sexual activity in a bedroom. Therefore, there must be evidence of semen somewhere, right? Even if the person tried to be “as clean” as possible there must be drops leftover. How do u scour room to find evidence?

Asked by PH13 about 7 years ago

Sorry for the delay, I’ve been on vacation. I guess it depends where the activity took place. If it all took place in bed and they washed the sheets, then there may not be any to find. An alternate light source can look for possible spots of semen, but the problem is many things can fluoresce, such as vaginal secretions, sweat, saliva, cleaners, certain fibers, etc.

With respect to drug profiling, could you please explain why it is necessary to have a full understanding of the chemistry of drug synthesis?

Asked by Laura almost 7 years ago

I'm sorry but I've never worked in toxicology.

What is the minimum requirement of education needed for this profession? Is grad school necessary?

Asked by Junn111 about 7 years ago

Titles and job requirements aren't uniform, so the only way to know is to call the crime labs in your area or wherever you might be interested in working and ask them. At the coroner's office we had to have at least a bachelor's in a natural science (this was before they had forensic science majors). At the police department where I am now, they only require a high school diploma but you get more points in the interviewing process for having a four year degree, so we all have one. You can also go on the websites for professional organizations such as the American Academy of Forensic Sciences and check out their job vacancy postings and see what the various positions require. Good luck.

As an aspiring forensic scientist, do you have any advice or suggestions for me before I enter this career?

Asked by Eric over 7 years ago

Take all the science courses you can and visit labs that do the kind of services you’re interested in.

How long does “Touch DNA” last? For example, if a person touched a hard surface and no one else ever touched it, how long will that persons “touch” or skin cells be there?

Asked by Jazmin about 7 years ago

Good question. If the surface isn't disturbed and the temperature and humidity are cool and steady, I know fingerprints can last indefinitely, so I suppose skin cells would last as well.

Hi, my name is Tyler and I have a lot of questions and was wondering if it was possible to talk to you one on one via email if that's OK. My email is tylerkinsler@yahoo.com.

Asked by Tyler over 7 years ago

Sure, I'll email you.

During your High school year what subjects did you take in order to get to where you are today? Also what courses would you suggest to take for someone looking to become a forensic scientist?

Asked by katelin almost 7 years ago

Take as many science and then math courses as you can.

Best of luck!