Forensic DNA Analyst

Duties

Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Examines and analyzes various types of biological evidence using scientifically valid laboratory tests/procedures to identify inclusions and exclusions of DNA profiles between evidence, known references, and database samples.
• Explains and interprets forensic DNA results and conclusions, their scientific basis, and statistical significance in criminal court proceedings to provide expert testimony
• Liaisons with federal, state, county, and local law enforcement agencies, the medical and scientific communities, and communications media to explain analytical results and provide information concerning forensic DNA services at the Crime Laboratory.
• Trains law enforcement personnel in proper methods of handling physical items to ensure the integrity and continuity of case evidence and the Crime Laboratory’s forensic DNA analysis capabilities.
• Participates in programs including DNA proficiency tests, quality assurance, and laboratory safety to maintain national accreditation and ensure the integrity of analytical testing and results.
• Writes and maintains daily logs, reports, and case records to document information for future reference and retrieval.
• Orders and maintain stock levels of supplies, reagents, and chemicals to ensure sufficient inventory required to perform testing/services.
• Writes technical reports and opinions of analytical results and conclusions to document and provide expert written opinion and courtroom testimony.
• This position is supervised by the Forensic Biology Supervisor

Skills or knowledge required:

• Knowledge of forensic DNA principles, laboratory techniques, procedures, and technology.
• Knowledge of physical evidence collection and preservation techniques.
• Knowledge of rules of evidence.
• Knowledge of forensic serology.
• Knowledge of Electrophoresis.
• Knowledge of the principles and practices of quantitative/qualitative organic chemistry.
• Knowledge of biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, and statistics and/or population genetics.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety rules, regulations, and procedures.
• Knowledge of forensic DNA laboratory proficiency and validation studies.
• Ability to perform forensic DNA - PCR analyses.
• Ability to evaluate and interpret forensic DNA test results.
• Ability to present and defend findings in a court of law.
• Ability to communicate effectively.
• Ability to write clearly and effectively.
• Ability to examine, analyze, identify, and compare various types of physical evidence.
• Ability to prepare reagents and solutions.

 Earn a Degree in Crime Scene Investigation, Forensic Science, or Computer Forensics

Requirements

Minimum qualifications:

• A seven year combination of education, training, and/or experience comprised of a Bachelors Degree in a biological, chemical, or forensic science which includes training or coursework in the areas of genetics, biochemistry, and molecular biology -AND- three years experience in forensic analysis which includes training or experience in the location, identification, and genetic characterization of body fluids.

Preference will be given to those applicants:

• With a seven-year combination of education, training, and/or experience comprised of a bachelor’s degree in a biological, chemical, or forensic science which must have science and laboratory-based coursework as an integral component. Coursework must include a minimum of nine cumulative semester hours (or equivalent) that cover the required subject areas of biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, and statistics/population genetics -AND- three years of experience in forensic analysis which includes training or experience in the identification and genetic characterization of biological material.

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