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

Hello. I am a senior in high school that must do an interview for a career. I was wondering if I could interview you. My email is brimattia661@gmail.com . Thank you.

Asked by Brianne about 6 years ago

I'll email you.

how can you tell how long someone has been dead if they have been formaldehyde/ formalin poisoned?

Asked by Student about 6 years ago

You'd have to ask a pathologist, but I believe that drinking (I assume) formalin and dying of poison would not preserve the body as it would if someone was embalmed with formalin/formaldehyde. So the indicators for time of death would be the same as with any other death. But I don't know that for sure. Best of luck!

I currently work as a Lab Tech in the Military and looking into future careers. I have a huge interest in forensics. The problem is I have a little bit of a criminal history when I was a kid. Will this be an issue when it comes to finding a job?

Asked by Re over 6 years ago

I doubt it. It depends on how little it was, and if those juvenile records are sealed (they usually are) but if it didn't prevent you from joining the military I'm guessing it wouldn't affect you working in a crime lab.

Where do you burry a body?

Asked by The man over 5 years ago

Where ever it’s convenient, I suppose.

How important are strong written and verbal communication skills in your field? ( I’m asking as an English assignment )

Asked by Madison over 6 years ago

Well, they need to be complete and accurate, but otherwise the actual English used can be pretty basic. Happily we’re not graded on our composition skills!

Have you ever found any bodies with missing organs? Do you know the effects on a body when organs are removed in a crude way?

Asked by Aly about 6 years ago

No and no, I’m afraid. That’s more a question for a pathologist.

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 6 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.