What Is a Forensic Scientist?
Forensic scientists have been the focus of many popular television shows, driving more individuals to seek for themselves what a forensic scientist does on a regular basis. Forensic scientists, sometimes also called forensic science technicians or crime laboratory analysts, utilize evidence in criminal and legal matters to determine the truthful facts of the issue at hand. The word “forensic” comes from a Latin word meaning “public” or “for the public.” This name is fitting, because in addition to analyzing the evidence, a forensic scientist must often give testimony in court as to his or her findings.
A forensic scientist often has one area he or she specializes in, including, but not limited to, the fields of DNA analysis, firearms and toxicology. The field of wildlife forensics is considered to be of increasing importance as incidences of illegal poaching increase around the world. Similarly, forensic psychiatry is also in increasing demand as the justice system seeks to understand why criminals commit their crimes. Other forensic scientists specialize in odontology, or the study of teeth; pathology; biology; or handwriting and document analysis. Each specialization requires continual and additional education supplementary to the basic requirements to become a forensic scientist.
This type of work is almost always in demand, leading to an abundance of forensic scientist jobs available for those who wish to pursue them. The requirements to obtain a forensic scientist job vary by location, but most forensic scientists are required to have a bachelor's degree or higher. Public speaking skills, the ability to take notes and understand them, as well as being able to maintain a code of ethics are all integral qualities for a forensic scientist. While there is no typical forensic scientist salary, as the money earned is dependent upon the hours, location and specialties pursued, the average hourly wage of all employed forensic scientists in the United States, as of 2006, was $21.79 US Dollars (USD), according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
A forensic scientist may work in a crime laboratory setting, in the field at crime scenes and archaeological digs, in the offices of lawyers or universities, in hospitals or a variety of other settings. Forensic science jobs are often full-time, with many opportunities for overtime. Some forensic scientists, particularly those working in the field or in hospital settings, may be on call and required to report to their workplace at any time. Forensic science is considered a field of growing interest, and the projected number of forensic scientist jobs in the United States is projected to rise 31 percent by the year 2016.
Written by Britt Archer
