Forensic Scientist 


Click above for information on Crime Scene Investigator role.^

What do Forensic Scientists do?

Forensic science is a competitive area to get into so make sure you have some lab experience and a related scientific degree.


As a forensic scientist you'll provide scientific evidence for use in courts of law to support the prosecution or defence in criminal and civil investigations.

You'll be primarily concerned with searching for and examining contact trace material associated with crimes. This material can include:


Although evidence is usually presented in writing as a formal statement or report, you may have to attend court to give your evidence in person as an expert witness.

Types of Forensic Scientist

Types of forensic scientist

Job activities depend on the area of forensics in which you work. The main areas are:


Qualifications 

You will need either an undergraduate degree in forensic science or a science degree and a postgraduate award in forensic science to become a forensic scientist. Degrees related to chemistry, biology, life sciences, applied sciences or medical sciences are likely to be the most appropriate, depending on the type of forensic work you want to do. 

To do a degree, you usually need five GCSEs (A-C) including maths, English and science, plus three A levels (a combination of science-related subjects) or an equivalent level 3 qualification. Check with universities for exact entry requirements.

There may be opportunities to start with a company as a forensics lab support assistant if you have qualifications such as HND, BTEC or A levels in science, together with relevant work experience. As with all forensics vacancies, there will be tough competition for jobs. Colour-normal vision is usually required.


<Taken from ucas.com- 2021>

work placement

Employers

Look for job vacancies at:

There's no one place where jobs are advertised, so check the websites of relevant professional bodies, police forces and key employers, as well as industry publications.

Strong links exist between some university departments and employers, so check with your university for potential contacts.

Forensic scientists are employed by commercial companies that provide forensic science services to the police and other agencies. Employers include:

In Scotland, a national forensic service - which includes biology, chemistry, DNA, drugs analysis, scene investigation, fingerprints and specialist services (such as documents and handwriting) - is provided by the Scottish Police Authority Forensic Services.

Other employers include:


University advice & guidance 

Career Videos 

Day in the life of a Forensic Scientist

Study Forensic Science in Liverpool

Week in the life of a forensic science student

Careers in Biomedical Science.pptx

What Is Forensic Science?

Careers in biomedical science and what to watch out for with accredited courses