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 have not used cocaine in a year, why is my hair still testing positive for cocaine?

Asked by Terence J Donnelly almost 6 years ago

Hair is just dead cells, so once something is there, it stays there. Hair grows at about 1/2 inch per month, in general (mine, to my frustration, grows much more slowly). So if your hair is longer than say 6 inches, the cocaine will still be there. If your hair is much shorter, then I don’t know what’s happening.Hope that helps.

Why did you choose this career?

Asked by Beanie about 5 years ago

I always loved mysteries and detection, but didn't want to be a cop.

Hi Lisa, have you ever thought about going through the process of becoming a sworn officer?

Asked by Scott about 5 years ago

No, thank you. I would never want to be a cop--I don' t know how they do what they do. I would hate having to deal with stressed-out people all day long.

I want to become a forensic scientist but I've heard that you have to go through police academy and become a police officer first. Is that true?

Asked by Emily Jones about 6 years ago

That entirely depends upon what agency you work for. Some police department crime labs may have that requirement. Many, like mine, have civilian employees for forensic support. The only way to know is to call the place you might want to work at and ask. (Or check their website for job postings.)

is it possible to be stabbed in your subclavian vein leading to death [while standing up] and not get blood on your shoes

Asked by Kerry Ferris about 6 years ago

Wow, sorry, I have no idea where the subclavian vein even is. I’m afraid you need a pathologist.

Sorry I couldn’t be more help!



Are chaplains always sworn employees or can they be citizen employees?

Asked by Dan almost 5 years ago

At my agency the chaplains are all civilians from local denominations.

How do I become a forensic Scientist and what skills should I obtain?

Asked by Laura L. almost 6 years ago

Any science major is a good thing. The requirements for each agency or lab vary, so if you have a particular location in which you wish to work, you might call all your potential employers and ask what the job requirements are. Then you can decide whether a science degree, a forensic science degree, a masters or a PhD would be best. Also check salaries and decide whether they are sufficient, and be prepared for a lot of competition.