Forensic Scientists
1. Where can I find information about current openings and apply for a Forensic Scientist position?
For information about current openings and the application to apply for a position, visit the ISP Civilian Opportunities webpage.
2.What are the educational requirements to apply for a position as a Forensic Scientist?
Crime Scene Investigator
- Baccalaureate degree or higher with natural science, forensic science, and/or criminal justice courses.
Digital Forensic Examination
- Baccalaureate degree or higher in digital/cyber forensics or computer science.
DNA Analysis
- A Baccalaureate degree in biology, chemistry, or forensic science.
- Must have successfully completed the following college courses: Genetics, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Statistics.
Drug Analysis
- A Baccalaureate degree in a natural science or forensic science that includes a minimum of one semester of physics and analytical chemistry/instrumental methods and one year or equivalent in each of general chemistry and organic chemistry including lecture and associated laboratory classes.
Microanalysis
- A Baccalaureate degree in a natural science or forensic science that includes a minimum of one semester of physics and one year or equivalent in each of general chemistry, organic chemistry, and analytical chemistry/instrumental methods including lecture and associated laboratory classes.
Firearms Examination, Latent Prints Comparisons and Questioned Documents Analysis
- A Baccalaureate degree with science courses.
Polygraph Examination
- Baccalaureate degree or five years’ experience as a polygraph examiner having graduated from a polygraph school accredited by the American Polygraph Association.
3. What are the other general job requirements and essential functions for a Forensic Scientist?
- Basic knowledge of the theory and practical operation of a variety of scientific instrumentation and analytical techniques.
- Ability to communicate clearly in English both orally and in writing with scientific and non-scientific personnel.
- Must have the ability to differentiate colors as evidenced by medical certification.
- Must possess a valid Indiana State Driver’s License.
- Ability to travel by aircraft.
- Ability to attend training at alternate locations for extended periods of time.
4. What are the job duties and responsibilities of a Forensic Scientist?
- Conduct analysis on evidence (various depending on discipline):
- Crime Scene Investigations.
- Serological tests to identify and analyze body fluids, tissues and various types of related matter.
- DNA analysis.
- Examination and determination of physical, microscopic, and compositional characteristics of physical evidence such as fibers, paint, glass, and ignitable liquids.
- Drug identification.
- Hand writing comparisons and questioned document examinations.
- Examination of firearms and firearms related evidence.
- Latent fingerprint development and comparisons.
- Communicate analytical procedures, methodology, and conclusions to various representatives of the criminal justice system including court testimony as an expert witness.
- Participate in a proficiency testing program.
- Assist in calibration and maintenance of laboratory instruments.
- Participate in training and continuing education programs.
- Preparation of laboratory case notes and written reports.
- Polygraph Examinations
5. How does the training program work?
Each person selected for a Forensic Scientist position, once hired, will participate in an extensive laboratory training program. The program consists of lectures and practical laboratory exercises. The trainees must successfully complete written tests, practical examinations and a mock courtroom testimony exercise. The duration of the training period varies depending on the laboratory discipline. The training could last as long as two years. Forensic Scientists may have opportunities to receive training outside the laboratory from various agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Forensic Scientists may also be able to attend conferences, such as American Academy of Forensic Sciences, held at various locations throughout the United States.