Forensic Scientist or Trainee - Forensic Biology - Western Laboratory - CF608

State of Virginia • Roanoke County, VA

341d • $58,008 - $102,070

About The Position

The Virginia Department of Forensic Science (DFS) is seeking a qualified applicant to perform forensic biology examinations at the Western Regional Laboratory, located in Roanoke, Virginia. Duties of this position include identification/detection of blood and other body fluids, DNA PCR-based STR fluorescence imaging analysis and comparisons of genetic material on criminal evidence using state-of-the-art analytical methodologies, techniques, and instrumentation. Accesses CODIS for data entry and evaluation of candidate matches, prepares reports of findings, to include statistical calculations as applicable, for use by the criminal justice system. Testifies in court as an expert witness. Communicates with medical and legal officials on testing procedures, results, and conclusions. Instructs law enforcement officials on the handling of evidence. This position requires occasional overnight travel, and employee will provide own transportation.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, forensic science, or related scientific field.
• Minimum of nine cumulative semester hours in genetics, biochemistry, and molecular biology.
• Minimum of six months forensic human DNA laboratory experience.
• Successful completion of a documented training program in forensic DNA PCR-based STR analysis.
• Experience as a qualified DNA casework analyst in an accredited forensic laboratory.
• Forensic laboratory casework experience performing body fluid identification/detection testing.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety and QA/QC procedures.
• Ability to testify in court through experience and/or training.
• Valid driver's license and/or other means of reliable transportation.

Nice To Haves

• Experience as an expert witness providing courtroom testimony.
• Experience with CODIS software related to DNA casework profiles.
• Experience teaching forensic related courses or conducting forensic training.
• Experience conducting forensic Y-STR analysis.
• Experience with STRmix or other probabilistic genotyping software.
• Certification by a nationally recognized body.

Responsibilities

• Perform forensic biology examinations at the Western Regional Laboratory.
• Identify and detect blood and other body fluids.
• Conduct DNA PCR-based STR fluorescence imaging analysis.
• Compare genetic material on criminal evidence.
• Access CODIS for data entry and evaluation of candidate matches.
• Prepare reports of findings, including statistical calculations.
• Testify in court as an expert witness.
• Communicate with medical and legal officials on testing procedures and results.
• Instruct law enforcement officials on the handling of evidence.

Benefits

• Salary range of $58,108 - $102,070 for Forensic Scientist.
• Salary of $49,059 for Forensic Scientist Trainee.
• Training duration of approximately 9 to 12 months for Trainee.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees