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.

SubscribeGet emails when new questions are answered. Ask Me Anything!Show Bio +

Share:

Ask me anything!

Submit Your Question

989 Questions

Share:

Last Answer on July 21, 2022

Best Rated

Would there be DNA left if someone used a forge and turned a murder weapon (say a knife) into something else, or maybe just folded the steel multiple times?

Asked by RDSBandit almost 9 years ago

I'm fairly sure that the high temperatures used in melting metal would destroy any DNA.

788 Votes

How long would it take for a deceased body to drop below 32 degrees centigrade if they were in good health previously and the ambient temp was 17 degrees centigrade. Would the body be cold and blue to touch inside 2 hours?

Asked by Iain almost 9 years ago

I'm sorry but I have no idea. That's a question for a pathologist. Sorry I couldn't help!

787 Votes

So you wanna be a Forensic Scientist?

Check our Jobstr's career page for salary information, educational requirements, suggested reading and more!

An HVAC condensate leak resolved 1mth prior yet occupant complained of 'worms' & 'biting bugs' entering via the air vents. Photo enlargement an assumed mold/debri pile in pan looks to be decomposing carcass. https://photos.shutterfly.com/full/6232696

Asked by Sleepy almost 9 years ago

I doubt I can help you but I'll try to get the pic.

786 Votes

Hello, my name is Maria and I'm currently a High School senior. For my college and career project I need to interview someone in my field of interest which is forensics. Is it possible I could interview you through FaceTime or something? Thank you:)

Asked by mariataipe1523 almost 9 years ago

Sure, send me your email address. If you don't want to post it here you can email me through my website: www.lisa-black@live.com.

785 Votes

Also on Jobstr...

iPhone & iPad Technician

iPhone & iPad TechnicianWhat's something you think Apple does surprisingly POORLY?

Freelance Writer

Freelance WriterCan a freelance writer live comfortably?

Court Reporter

Court ReporterHow do you transcribe when people in the courtroom are talking over and interrupting each other?

What is a color

Asked by Angel almost 9 years ago

I don't know what you mean.

785 Votes

What are some of the difficult parts of this job

Asked by Angel almost 9 years ago

Being 'on call' and knowing you can be interrupted at any moment of the day and have to go to a crime scene, even if it's the middle of the night or a holiday. I've also had to change vacations because I have to testify in a trial. I hate that. 

784 Votes

Do firearms have a unique spray pattern when fired? Something similar to a fingerprint?

Asked by Marco over 8 years ago

No. You might be able to estimate muzzle to target distance from a spray pattern, but not firearm type or brand.

781 Votes

Home Browse Jobs Host a Q&A Search Blog FAQ Terms Contact

Copyright Jobstr 2014