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

I am busy studying Forensic DNA and srtuggle with the following questions:
consequences of contamination collecting DNA

Your assistance would be appreciated.

Asked by Lindi Steyn almost 8 years ago

Contamination may make it impossible to get a DNA profile, or the profile might show a mixture. It will not cause a profile to look like someone else's DNA. Or it may have no effect at all. It depends what is contaminated with what.

Reading a book & evangelist claims to have raised someone dead for about six hours. He pinched her nose, picked up her hand & leg they just flopped down. Is this possible with Rigor Mortis?

Asked by Mia almost 8 years ago

I’m not a pathologist but I think it’s possible even if not likely. Bodies start to stiffen in 1-2 hours but rigor reaches its peak somewhere around 12 hours. It can depend a great deal on temperature, body type and medical conditions.

Hey I will ask you since your at the top of the list. Why do so many people not answer but have their accounts open? I know a few of them occasionally will answer but for the most part they lay dormant,

Asked by Sam almost 6 years ago

I have no idea.

How long would it take you to analyze evidence?

Asked by Denise_ot5 almost 7 years ago

That completely depends on what kind of evidence and what analysis we’re doing.

What are some safety hazards, contamination / degradation hazards and how do u package SEMINAL STAINS A

Asked by Jayleen over 6 years ago

That's a pretty broad question. I can tell you that for both seminal stains and blood stains, the best way to package one is to let it dry, then place in a sterile paper envelope or bag. Never plastic! Then keep in a dry, cool environment.

Hope that helps.

What college did you go to? What was your major? I’m having lot of trouble finding a “forensic science” major so what should I major in??

Asked by Hannah over 7 years ago

I have a degree in biology because they didn't have forensic science degrees at that time. I would think any natural science is a good basis for the field. A friend of mine who teaches at Miami-Dade recommends Miami-Dade, of course; also the University of New Haven, and Keiser University has some good programs.

Where do you burry a body?

Asked by The man almost 7 years ago

Where ever it’s convenient, I suppose.