Forensic scientist
Help solve crimes by finding evidence that links a suspect to a crime scene.
About the job
What it's like
Are you a science lover who enjoys solving mysteries? Then a career as a forensic scientist could be perfect for you.
In this role, you'll uphold the law by finding evidence that links suspects to a crime scene. Forensic scientists gather and analyse evidence from a variety of sources – including blood and other body fluids, hairs, textile fibres, glass fragments and tyre marks.
You'll attend crime scenes, which may be unpleasant, and examine them to collect potential evidence. It's vital you analyse all traces of physical evidence and prepare them for use in court cases.
This is a high-pressure job, with urgent deadlines and a need to justify your findings. So, do you have what it takes to pull on that white lab coat and solve crimes?
Your tasks might include:
identifying blood groups and doing DNA profiling
analysing fluid and tissue samples for traces of drugs and poisons
examining splash patterns, the distribution of particles, handwriting, signatures, ink and paper
providing expert advice on explosives, firearms and ballistics
recovering data from computers, mobile phones and other electronic equipment
giving impartial scientific evidence in court
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
Scottish Police Authority (Forensic Services) – learn about forensic services
The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences – find out about the professional body of forensic science
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Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Life sciences Digital technologies
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- understanding
- time management
- taking initiative
- attention to detail
- researching
- observation
- written communication
- verbal communication
- cooperating
- resilience
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Biology
Chemistry
Maths (Mathematics)
Science
Skills for Work: Laboratory Science
Applications of Mathematics
This is a small profession and entry is very competitive.
Let's explore the routes you can take to become a forensic scientist.
University
You’ll need a degree or postgraduate qualification in a relevant subject, such as:
Forensic Science
Chemistry
Biology
Biomedical Science
Digital Forensics or Computing
Criminology with Science
Use the My World of Work course search to find degrees.
Apprenticeships
Modern Apprenticeships (MAs) mean you learn on the job. You get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time. You might want to consider an MA in areas such as:
Work
Are you working in a different area of science? If you have lots of lab experience and relevant qualifications, you can apply directly for forensic scientist positions.
Use the My World of Work job search to find vacancies.
Want to specialise in recovering data from computers and mobile phones? You'll need relevant experience and qualifications in areas like computing, electrical engineering, electronics or physics.
Find the right course for you
Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Forensic scientist'
