They also must be knowledgeable in physics and math. Be sure any program you choose is accredited by the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC).Ī master’s degree in forensic science is usually required in order to advance as a forensic biologist in a crime laboratory.Ī successful forensic biologist must have a strong commitment to the highest standards of scientific procedure. They need extensive laboratory experience and may take courses in genetics, biostatistics and general and organic chemistry. Most graduate from a four-year college with a degree in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology or forensic biology. Academic Requirementsįorensic biologists are scientists.

The work can be repetitive and boring, but the reward comes in finding a critical piece of evidence investigators can use to solve the crime. They photograph and catalog the evidence and perform DNA and other tests on the samples. In the lab, forensic biologists examine this evidence using microscopes and other technology. They may sift through the surrounding dirt and even garbage looking for biological evidence. At crime scenes, forensic biologists collect leaves, insects and other biological material and examine the victim’s clothing and remains (which may be in an advanced state of decomposition). Working so closely with biological material (including every sort of fluid found in the human body) can be messy, smelly and generally unpleasant.įield work can be particularly dirty work.

Working Conditions | Academic Requirements | Resources Working Conditions

What does a forensic scientist do