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

when you find that you have a cold case, how do you find breakthroughs? Or are they almost pure luck?

Asked by NB almost 9 years ago

That’s more of a question for detectives, since ‘solving ‘ the case is their responsibility—I’m just there to provide forensic support. But in the cases I’ve been involved with, luck is of course a huge factor.

Well, according to the movie, as fingerprints leave an oily residue, they found traces of R-12 mixed with it. They also said that the uric acid levels in the eccrine gland residue were inconsistent with a guy with active metabolism. Too far fetched?

Asked by R-Mod over 8 years ago

Yes. Unless they have a crime lab more incredibly equipped than any I've ever visited.

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

Asked by Eric almost 9 years ago

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

Okay I am righting a book, and I am looking for a way to describe it from a forensic scientist/analyzer's point of view. the man would die with a caved in skull, holding his brain in one hand, and his wife's heart in the other.

Asked by Paula over 8 years ago

Sorry, I'm having a hard time picturing how what you're describing would be possible.

1 What is the education requirement for this position? 2 What knowledge do you need to have? 3 What skills do you need to learn and how long did it take you to learn them? 4 What is a normal day like in this job?

Asked by Mattea almost 9 years ago

For homework assignments please email me at: lisa-black@live.com.

What was your first thought when you started your career in forensic science ?

Asked by Krystal over 8 years ago

I’m not sure what you mean—when I decided to go into forensic science (in which case it would be “that sounds really cool, like I could solve mysteries without being a cop”) or more like my very first day on the job (which would be “I hope I don’t screw up “).

I want to use aconite in a skin cream for the murder "weapon" in my mystery novel. Could he add enough to kill, but not right away?

Asked by Gloria over 8 years ago

I'm sorry but that's beyond my technical expertise. You need a toxicologist for that one.

Best of luck!