Forensic DNA Analyst

DNA analysts often work in forensic crime labs where they examine samples of DNA to identify potential suspects. After conducting tests on each sample, analysts compare the identity of the sample with other known samples. If they can find a match on the system of known suspects, they can provide law enforcement agents with a positive identification. Some analysts work in privately owned forensic laboratories, where as others work in police station crime labs.

Analysts spend most of their time in the laboratory cataloguing and analyzing DNA evidence. Since the findings from the analysis can be used in court to prove the innocence or guilt of suspects, analysts must follow strict protocols regarding the custody of evidence, testing procedures and reporting guidelines. Every step of the procedure must be notated and reported, which includes when the sample was received, the quality of the sample, the tests performed and their results. Analysts are often called to appear in court as expert witnesses to verify the findings of a particular DNA analysis.

In the lab, analysts also perform routine maintenance and quality control checks. They maintain each piece of equipment, check for damages and request replacement equipment as needed. To make sure that each analysis is performed correctly, analysts often conduct peer reviews on each others findings. This can include retesting samples and double-checking the findings reports.

Certification:

To work in a crime lab approved by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), DNA analysts must meet the minimum requirement of a bachelor's degree related to molecular biology, genetics or forensic sciences. Undergraduate coursework in molecular genetics programs include microbiology, immunology, infectious diseases, gene development and biochemistry. Most programs include mandatory laboratory hours for students to familiarize themselves with equipment and laboratory procedures.

In June 2011, job postings for DNA analysts with state and local government agencies in Pennsylvania and Delaware requested candidates with strong communication skills, both verbally and in writing. These same employers also desired candidates who could periodically train personnel. Similarly, analysts would be expected to work well with the laboratory's team of analysts as well as other professionals.

Required Skills:

Forensic technicians manage crime scene evidence for police departments. Also called criminalists, crime scene investigators or evidence technicians, they play an integral role in the catching, conviction and acquittal of suspects in cases of all levels.

The general tasks of a forensic technician include collecting evidence, analyzing collected evidence in a laboratory setting and writing reports summarizing the results of this analysis. Forensic technicians may specialize in particular types of evidence, including fingerprinting, biochemistry, ballistics or handwriting analysis. Forensic technicians may also be asked to testify in court cases, especially in an area of individual expertise.

In the lab, forensic technicians interpret evidence collected from crime scenes. This includes identifying unknown substances and objects, theorizing about their relevancy and relationship to the suspect and victim. DNA typing can help identify the person who shed blood or other body fluids at the scene. Forensic technicians may even identify drug powders or determine which type of gun fired a bullet, explains the California Employment Development Department. Then, forensic techs compile and document the results of analysis into reports.

Forensic technicians must have analytical thinking and reasoning skills. They must also have good control over their emotions and possess the ability to work both individually and as part of a team while under large amounts of stress. Necessary skills to be a forensic technician can be broken down into three sets: skills needed in the field, skills required in the lab and skills needed to communicate the results of evidence analysis.