Forensic Chemist Jobs

A forensic chemist analyzes evidence that is brought in from crime scenes and reaches conclusions based on tests run on that evidence. A forensic chemist identifies and characterizes the evidence as part of the larger process of solving a crime. A forensic chemist handles the evidence collected from the crime scene and understands that analysis of the evidence requires tools from many disciplines, including chemistry, biology, material science, and genetics. A forensic chemist communicates with supervisors, police personnel, other city employees, attorneys, and the general public, assists with the evaluation of evidence for the investigation of crimes, and prepares for court. A forensic chemist communicates with other experts in the field to exchange information on the analyses of evidence. A forensic chemist consults and coordinates with latent print examiners, police officers, attorneys, private experts, and others on plans for the solution of problems involving the analysis, comparison, and identification of physical evidence.

A forensic chemist position requires a BS or MS degree in chemistry and instrumental analysis. A graduate-level forensic science degree is also preferred. A forensic chemist should be versatile and patient. A forensic chemist should be able to spend many hours rigorously applying analytical techniques to evidence and then defending his or her work in a court of law. A forensic chemist should likewise have good analytical and communication skills.