Forensic Analyst (Biology)
OFO No:
Youtube clip – All about Forensic Careers
For training options in South Africa – scroll down
What is a Forensic Analyst (Biology)?
Do you watch CSI? Do you watch Law and Order? If you do, you might have noticed actors playing the roles of Forensic Analysts!
Forensic Analysts (BIOLOGY) usually work on crime scenes. They analyse the biological evidence by studying DNA – human or animal tissue, hair, dental records, fluids like blood and saliva etc. They can also analyse plant samples.
By studying all these different elements, they can then determine how a crime ‘went down’ and give evidence in court. Their job is very precise and extremely important. Their research can solve a crime and send a person to jail or not – so their work has to be 100% correct.
What does a Forensic Analyst do?
- helps police departments
- analyses DNA and biological samples
- identifies humans through samples
- proves whether a person (perpetrator) was present at a scene of a crime or not
- attends post mortems (autopsies)
- gives evidence in court
- writes reports
- maintains data base
Are you . . . ?
- interested in science?
- a problem solver?
- inquisitive?
- methodical and accurate?
- detail orientated?
- persistent?
- reliable?
- willing to work unusual hours?
How do I become a Forensic Analyst (BIOLOGY)?
To work in the forensic department of the police – you must have a BSc Degree or equivalent qualification majoring in one of the following subjects:
- Biochemistry
- Microbiology
- Zoology
- Physiology
- Genetics
- Molecular biology is compulsory
After your BSc – you will be given SAPS internal training in:
- Forensic biology case work
- Body fluid identification
- Forensic molecular biology course
- Forensic trichology
- Forensic anthropology
TRAINING:
- CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
- Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
- To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions.
- SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE SERVICES
http://www.saps.gov.za/careers/career_quest/red/forensic_biology.htm
Forensic Analysts work for the Forensic Science Laboratories of the SAPS: Detective Services.
OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Bodyguard or Dental Technician
Is becoming a Forensic Analyst (BIOLOGY) the right career choice for me?
