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.
For school projects please email me at: lisa-black@live.com
Share Answer: 
Most likely.
Share Answer: 
titles and job requirements aren't uniform, so the only way to know is to call the crime labs in your area or whereever you might be interested in working and ask them. At the coroner's office we had to have at least a bachelor's in a natural science (this was before they had forensic science majors). At the police department where I am now, they only require a high school diploma but you get more points in the interviewing process for having a four year degree, so we all have one. You can also go on the websites for professional organizations such as the American Academy of Forensic Sciences and check out their job vacancy postings and see what the various positions require. Good luck.
Share Answer: 
Bleach will also destroy DNA but of course that may damage items. Soap and water will do.
Share Answer: 
Subway Store Manager
What do you think is the healthiest option on the Subway menu?
Help Desk Technician
What's the closest you've come to "losing it" on someone you were helping?
Football Official
Were the replacement refs actually worse than the regular refs?
In the way of helping to solve crimes.
Share Answer: 
I'm not trying to be snippy, but no, I really can't. 'Forensics' could be anything from having a PhD in genetics to working in evidence intake. Start with why you're thinking about it as a career, what it is you see yourself doing. Then try to find facilities near you that do that and ask for a tour. It's a good way to get specific answers to specific questions as well as begin to make contacts in the field.
Share Answer: 
Good question. If the surface isn't disturbed and the temperature and humidity are cool and steady, I know fingerprints can last indefinitely, so I suppose skin cells would last as well.
Share Answer: 
-OR-
Login with Facebook (max 20 characters - letters, numbers, and underscores only. Note that your username is private, and you have the option to choose an alias when asking questions or hosting a Q&A.)
(A valid e-mail address is required. Your e-mail will not be shared with anyone.)
(min 5 characters)
By checking this box, you acknowledge that you have read and agree to Jobstr.com’s Terms and Privacy Policy.
-OR-
Register with Facebook(Don't worry: you'll be able to choose an alias when asking questions or hosting a Q&A.)
Browse Jobs
Host a Q&A
Search
Submit Your Question
Host a Q&A
Last 7
