Forensic Scientist

Forensic Scientist

LIsa Black

Cape Coral, FL

Female, 49

I spent the five happiest years of my life in a morgue. As a forensic scientist in the Cleveland coroner’s office I analyzed gunshot residue on hands and clothing, hairs, fibers, paint, glass, DNA, blood and many other forms of trace evidence, as well as crime scenes. Now I'm a certified latent print examiner and CSI for a police department in Florida. I also write a series of forensic suspense novels, turning the day job into fiction. My books have been translated into six languages.

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Last Answer on July 21, 2022

Best Rated

Can you be multiple different types of a forensic scientist?

Asked by Molly almost 8 years ago

Most people are cross-trained in more than one area. In smaller agencies people might have to wear a lot of hats.

How much methamphetamine would it take in a body that was submerged 4 two weeks, for an ME to consider it intoxicated? drowning with environmental hypothermia, contributory cause: methamphetamine intoxication

Asked by Lina N Lete about 7 years ago

I’m sorry but I have no idea. I’ve never worked in Toxicology.

My son died recently and his keys were in his pocket. They gave me back the keys and wallet in a baggie and I need to clean them. I don't want to open the bag without knowing the best way to do it without the smell and such being overwhelming?

Asked by lmc over 7 years ago

I’m so sorry for your loss. My advice would be to use rubber gloves and take the items to a porch or some dry outside spot if it’s not going to rain for a while, or the garage or utility room if so. If you’re sensitive to smells you might use swimmers nose plugs or a bandana tied over your face. Spread the items out on a clean paper bag or newspaper (or wax paper if there’s some pieces of paper in his wallet you want to keep. Anything that can be wet, like car keys or plastic cards, dip or wash them in a container of water with some bleach in it, then let dry. Let all the stuff in the wallet dry if necessary, then keep what you want and discard the rest. Some of the smell will dissipate the longer its left to dry but if it’s something that can’t be soaked in bleach, you may never get a smell completely out, as far as I know. Best of luck.

Is it dangerous to be a forensic scientist ?
Thanks

Asked by Tatiana almost 8 years ago

No.

If I have a BS in Physics, is that the right path to become a blood spatter analyst or a ballistics expert?

Asked by Trey over 7 years ago

I think it would certainly be an asset!

Best of luck.

How (or where) can I get someone to review an autopsy for mistakes or inconsistencies, if corruption is suspected from the investigative agency that was present, and influential during the examination?

Asked by Lina about 7 years ago

You would need another forensic pathologist to review the work of the first forensic pathologist.

Best of luck.

I am applying for a grad. program that allows me to pursue a masters in forensic science and a PhD in Biochemistry. How would this compare to if I acquire a PhD in forensic science instead? Thank you.

Asked by Joe over 7 years ago

I'm sorry but I have absolutely no idea. You might call the labs at which you'd like to work and ask about the positions you'd like to get, and see what they suggest. They would know a lot more than I would.

Best of luck!