Forensic scientist

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• an apprenticeship
• applying directly

University

You can do a degree or postgraduate qualification in:

• forensic science
• a related subject like chemistry, biological science, physics or medical sciences

Entry to jobs is competitive, so it may help to choose a university qualification accredited by The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences .

Entry requirements:

• 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including chemistry
• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

Entry requirements:

Apprenticeship

The following science degree apprenticeships may be relevant to this role:

• research scientist degree apprenticeship
• laboratory scientist degree apprenticeship

It will help if you do your aprenticeship with a company that provides forensic science services, or with a police force that has its own in-house lab facilities.

Entry requirements:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

DirectApplication

You can apply directly to forensic services providers if you've got a lot of lab experience, and qualifications in science, especially chemistry.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Skills:

• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• knowledge of public safety and security
• excellent written communication skills
• the ability to work on your own
• legal knowledge including court procedures and government regulations
• customer service skills
• to be flexible and open to change
• excellent verbal communication skills
• active listening skills
• administration skills
• thinking and reasoning skills
• the ability to read English
• knowledge of English language
• concentration skills
• the ability to learn through your work
• the ability to work well with your hands
• physical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and grace

What you'll do:

Forensic scientists prepare traces of physical evidence for use in courts of law.

In this role you could:

• perform blood grouping and DNA profiling
• analyse fluid and tissue samples for traces of drugs and poisons
• examine splash patterns and the distribution of particles
• analyse handwriting, signatures, ink and paper
• provide expert advice on explosives, firearms and ballistics
• research and develop new technologies
• recover data from computers, mobile phones and other electronic equipment
• attend crime scenes, like a murder or fire
• give impartial, scientific evidence in court

Location : You could work in a laboratory, in a court or visit sites.
Environment : Your working environment may be emotionally demanding.
Uniform : You may need to wear protective clothing.

Salary:

Starter : £18,000
Experienced : £45,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

37 - 40 hours a week

Working Pattern is on call at short notice

Career Path:

With experience, you could move into management and direct other forensics staff as a forensics manager or casework examiner.

You could also work as a reporting scientist, acting as an expert witness in court.