Forensic scientist
Forensic scientists collect and analyse physical and digital evidence to support criminal and accident investigations.
Also known as: Forensic examiner
- Starter salary£27,000 a year
- Experienced£45,000 a year
- Typical hours37 to 40 a week
What you'll do
As a forensic scientist, you could:
- receive, classify and prepare forensic samples for analysis
- carry out blood grouping tests and DNA profiling
- analyse fluid, hair and tissue samples for traces of evidence , like drugs or toxins
- analyse handwriting, signatures, ink and paper
- provide expert advice on explosives, firearms and ballistics
- research and develop new procedures
- recover data from computers, mobile phones and other devices
- work closely with crime scene officers, the police and accident investigators
- write forensic reports on findings for investigating teams
- act as an expert witness in court
Working environment
You could work in a laboratory or visit sites.
Your working environment may be emotionally demanding.
You may need to wear protective clothing.
Skills and knowledge you'll need
You'll need:
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
- knowledge of public safety and security
- concentration skills
- the ability to work on your own
- to be flexible and open to change
- excellent written communication skills
- excellent verbal communication skills
- to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications
How to become a forensic scientist
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
- biochemistry
- forensic anthropology
- computer and digital forensics
- medical sciences
It may help to choose a university qualification that is accredited by The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences , as entry into the profession is competitive.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including a science, for a degree
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
Apprenticeship
You could apply to do an apprenticeship, such as:
- Digital Forensic Technician Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
- Scientist Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship - options in chemistry, biology and physics
These apprenticeships last between 2 and 5 years. They are offered by companies that provide forensic services and police forces that have their own in-house forensics unit.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
Direct application
You can apply directly to forensic services providers if you've got a lot of lab experience, and higher education qualifications in science, especially chemistry.
Restrictions and requirements
You'll need to:
- pass enhanced background checks
- pass security checks
Career path and progression
As your career develops, you may wish to specialise in a particular branch of forensics, for example:
- DNA profiling
- toxicology
- digital forensics
- ballistics
You could also move into management and co-ordinate the work of a forensics team.
With experience, you could work towards Chartered Forensic Practitioner status , which demonstrates your skills and expertise in the profession.
Career tips
If you want to specialise in recovering data from computers and mobile phones, you'll need relevant experience and qualifications in subjects like computer science, electronics engineering, digital forensics or physics.
Professional and industry bodies
You can join The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences for professional development and advice. The society has student membership, for undergraduates aiming to get into a forensic science career.
Guides for this industry
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