Forensic Scientist I
About The Position
The State Crime Laboratory of the Department of Justice maintains a full-service forensic science laboratory to assist all law enforcement agencies in North Carolina in the investigation of criminal matters. The Laboratory’s mission is to provide state-of-the-art forensic services in the areas of drug analysis, blood alcohol/drug content, firearms, latent prints, footwear and tire tracks, forensic biology, computer forensics, and trace evidence. The services are provided by a central laboratory in Raleigh, N.C. and regional laboratories located in Edneyville, N.C. and Greensboro, N.C. The primary purpose of the Forensic Scientist I is to perform entry level Forensic Biology casework.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree with a major in biology, microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, animal science, zoology, medical technology, forensic science with biology/DNA concentration, or closely related curriculum from an appropriately accredited institution including coursework in biochemistry, genetic, molecular biology, statistics and population genetics; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Must obtain individual certification consistent with international and ISO standards within eighteen months of the date the analyst becomes eligible to seek certification according to the standards of the certifying entity.
Nice To Haves
- Master’s degree in biological science or related science or 2 years laboratory experience.
Responsibilities
- Perform an equitable share of analyses performed by the Section to include preparing written reports of the results and providing expert testimony in court on the results of analyses.
- Examine evidence for the presence of bodily fluids (e.g. blood and semen).
- Perform DNA testing to determine the donor of that particular body fluid or other biological evidence (hairs, epithelial cells, organs, muscle etc.) submitted.
- Analyze evidence from all case types excluding cold cases, and highly complex cases until such time as the need arises and enough experience has been gained.
- Perform casework with a high degree of technical independence.
- Perform Serology testing using a combination of visual and chemical testing of a wide range of different evidence types, utilizing a variety of presumptive and/or confirmatory tests.
- Stay current in the field of Forensic Biology to keep up with the latest trends and technologies by periodically reviewing scientific literature and attending scientific conferences and training.
- Complete at minimum 8.0 hours of continuing education as required by federal guidelines.
- Complete the annual requirements for proficiency testing.
- Review peer’s laboratory reports and supporting documentation to ensure they meet laboratory standards for quality assurance prior to issuance.
- Testify in state and federal courts as to his/her analysis of evidence.
- Project a professional image in dealing with the public, law enforcement officers, and attorneys by telephone, written communications, and in person.
- Be assigned one or more collateral duties and/or perform advanced level tasks reserved for a Forensic Scientist I that are essential to ensure the daily operations of the Section are maintained.
- Overtime may be required due to the business needs of the laboratory.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
