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

Why did you choose this career?

Asked by Beanie over 5 years ago

I always loved mysteries and detection, but didn't want to be a cop.

Hello! How easy is it to collect finger prints, scan them and identify a match (I imagine its very hard) but out of say 100 cases how many could actually be solved using fingerprint analysis?

Asked by Eliza over 6 years ago

Generally about a 6 to 10% identified rate is good. Many prints that are collected at scenes by officers are ‘not of value for comparison ‘ (smudges or only have a few ridges) and many that are good belong to the victim or their friends, family, employees etc.

I was trying to remember this question one of my friends had asked me to fill in the blank so could you help me?

Once the DNA is extracted, it is cut into __ by certain ___ that act as Chemical__

Asked by Saihara over 6 years ago

Sorry, I think that's something I used to know years ago but have since forgotten. I know the DNA can be cut, maybe by enzymes? into the sections of short tandem repeats. But I haven't done DNA analysis in 20 years, so my skills are not up to date. Sorry I couldn't help!

I am writing a paper on the neuroses and role of sadistic behavior of female-targeting serial murderers. With your professional stance, I feel that your contribution would be helpful. Do you have information on this topic?

Asked by HG almost 7 years ago

Sorry, but no. I’ve never been involved in the psychology of the suspects.Best of luck!

Good morning, My name is scott hunter and i a trying to research, career exploration. I was wondering if it would be possible to meet with you or call you to learn about your profession?i would be greatful for about 20 minutes of your time. Thank you

Asked by scott about 7 years ago

Sure, no problem. Please email me at lisa-black@live.com.

How do I become a forensic Scientist and what skills should I obtain?

Asked by Laura L. over 6 years ago

Any science major is a good thing. The requirements for each agency or lab vary, so if you have a particular location in which you wish to work, you might call all your potential employers and ask what the job requirements are. Then you can decide whether a science degree, a forensic science degree, a masters or a PhD would be best. Also check salaries and decide whether they are sufficient, and be prepared for a lot of competition.

Will you go out with me?

Asked by Generic White Male over 6 years ago

No.