Forensic Scientist, Biology/DNA

Duties

• Identify, examine, analyze, evaluate and interpret evidence in the investigation of crimes;
• Use forensic science in the analysis of evidence in order to reach scientific conclusions in the area of Biology/DNA;
• Effectively communicate results and findings, verbally and in writing, to the appropriate parties.

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

Requirements

Forensic Scientist Biology/DNA SCT – Trainee

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in physical science, forensic science, chemistry, biology or related field.
• Additional academic courses required as specified in the FBI QAS CODIS requirements.

Forensic Scientist Biology/DNA I SCI – Entry Level

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in physical science, forensic science, chemistry, biology or related field; and
• One (1) year of examination training and/or casework.
• Additional academic courses required as specified in the FBI QAS CODIS requirements.

Forensic Scientist Biology/DNA II SC2 – Journeyman Level

• Master's degree from an accredited college or university in physical science, forensic science, chemistry, biology or related field; and
• Three (3) years of examination training and/or casework; -OR-
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in physical science, forensic science, chemistry, biology or related field; and
• Five (5) years of examination training and/or casework.
• Additional academic courses required as specified in the FBI QAS CODIS requirements.

Forensic Scientist Biology/DNA III SC3 - Advanced Level

• Master's degree from an accredited college or university in physical science, forensic science, chemistry, biology; and
• Eight (8) years of examination training and/or casework; -OR-
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in physical science, forensic science, chemistry, biology; and
• Ten (10) years of examination training and/or casework.
• Additional academic courses required as specified in the FBI QAS CODIS requirements.

Additional Requirements

• Possession of a valid New Mexico Driver's License or the ability to obtain by date of hire.
• Possession of a City Operator's Permit (COP) within 6 months from date of hire.

Preferred Knowledge

• All areas of examinations conducted by a Biology/DNA unit
• Theories and techniques of Biology/DNA examinations and related duties
• Advanced molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, and statistics principles
• Stereo and comparison microscopes, assorted accessories and equipment used in the Laboratory
• Understand, in detail, the principles and use of current DNA analysis as applied to forensic science
• Use of Combined DNA Index System (CODIS)
• Operations, services, procedures and activities of a forensic laboratory
• Crime scene investigations
• Methods and techniques of forensic evidence collection and evaluation
• Operation of forensic instruments, equipment and tools
• Operation of basic power and hand tools
• Occupational hazards and standard safety practices
• Pertinent Federal, State and local codes, laws and regulations
• Computers and various programs and data bases
• Scientific Working Group on DNA Analysis Methods (SWGDAM)
• Association of Forensic DNA Analysts and Administrators (AFDAA)
• American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS)
• American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors - Laboratory accreditation Board, and other applicable quality assurance standards.

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