With the popularity of TV shows such as NCIS and CSI, the career of a forensic chemist, someone who analyzes crime scene evidence such as blood, hair samples and more, is hotter and more interesting than ever. While this field might look fascinating on television, it takes a lot of work, intelligence and specialized education to achieve this career goal.
Instructions
Become a Forensic Chemist
1. Get a broad-based forensic science degree at both the undergraduate and graduate level. In addition to chemistry, forensic chemists must also be well-versed in biology, biochemistry, genetics, geology, materials science and criminalistics, depending on your particular pursuit. More higher-learning institutions continue to offer specialized forensic chemistry degrees.
While some people are able to find jobs with an undergraduate degree, a graduate degree will give you a boost in this increasingly popular and competitive field.
2. Practice your public speaking skills. Forensic chemists who analyze evidence from crime scenes are routinely called on to testify in court. Make sure you are comfortable with this role.
3. Look for work in labs. Labs can be private, but they are often affiliated with a federal or local police department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) or a medical examiner's office. Other options include teaching or working in a hospital or morgue.
4. Continue your education even after completing school with updated training courses and seminars that will keep you apprised of the latest developments and techniques in forensic chemistry.
Tags: Become Forensic, Become Forensic Chemist, forensic chemistry
