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

I'm going to be graduating high school in a few months and I'm looking to do forensic science, mostly leaning towards biology and examining. I want to know if going to a FEPAC school really matters.

Asked by Morgan over 7 years ago

I'm sorry but I don't know what a FEPAC school is.

Does being a forensic scientist allow time to have a family of your own?

Asked by Sophie about 6 years ago

Yes, of course! You often have to be a little flexible in your schedule, but it's no more a problem than in any other job.

What are the physical and chemical properties of blood, hair, footprints?

Asked by Abby over 7 years ago

That's an awfully broad question. What do you think are the physical and chemical properties? Blood has hemoglobin. Hair grows out of your head. Footprints are impressions in the dirt. I'm pretty sure you could write a good answer to this question yourself.

If you were looking to find the amounts of lead in paints, would it be better to analyze liquid paint or paint chips?

Asked by NJ210 about 7 years ago

I used to analyze dried paint with an FTIR, which I believe would detect lead, but as to what would be better I really don’t know. Sorry I can’t be more help.

Which is better to be forensic scientist, forensic science in the middle and low university or biology in the good university?

Asked by Kim about 7 years ago

It may depend on what you want to do. If you want to work crime scene, then you might be a more attractive candidate with all the hands-on practical work of a forensic science degree. But if you want to be a DNA analyst, then I’d go with biology. Best thing to do is call the labs where you might someday apply and ask them. Best of luck!

what would i need to study to become a forensic pathologist?

Asked by esthers33741212 over 7 years ago

Medicine. Forensic pathologists are doctors and go to medical school. So I would suggest you take every science course you can, especially biological sciences. Best of luck to you!

What does forensic science mean to you?

Asked by Caroline over 6 years ago

For homework interview questions, please email me at lisa-black@live.com.