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

Have you ever been emotional with the cases you have worked on?

Asked by Denise_ot5 almost 7 years ago

Once in a great while something will catch me when I’m not expecting it. But very rarely.

I'm going to be graduating high school in a few months and I'm looking to do forensic science, mostly leaning towards biology and examining. I want to know if going to a FEPAC school really matters.

Asked by Morgan over 7 years ago

I'm sorry but I don't know what a FEPAC school is.

Can a body be in water and not have rigamortis?

Asked by Amanda Marsh about 7 years ago

As far as I know, water doesn’t change the process of rigor mortis. The temperature of the water may speed it up or slow it down, but the process would still occur.

Does being a forensic scientist allow time to have a family of your own?

Asked by Sophie almost 6 years ago

Yes, of course! You often have to be a little flexible in your schedule, but it's no more a problem than in any other job.

How much school is need to become a forensic scientist, as well as what classes do you need to take?

Asked by Denisse Parada almost 7 years ago

The job requirements are whatever the hiring agency says they are, so it could be anything from a high school diploma to a PhD in genetics. The only way to know is to call the department or check their website for job vacancies.

What is your least favorite part of your job?

Asked by Hily over 7 years ago

Being on call and having to leave dinner or get up in the middle of the night to go to a crime scene. And having to schedule vacations and events around whether I can get someone else to cover my call for me.

Do you think physical evidence has increased in importance over the last several decades, with advancements in technology and testing procedures? Why or why not?

Asked by Ar about 7 years ago

Physical evidence was always extremely important. What has changed with technology is what types of evidence are more commonly examined. It used to be hairs and pollen and now it's touch DNA and cell phones.