Criminalist
Core
Performs scientific analysis on physical evidence from criminal cases and convicted offender DNA samples, issues reports, and testifies as an expert witness.
Role type
Forensic Criminalist (Physical Evidence & DNA Analysis)
Builds
Forensic analysis reports, evidence profiles in databases (CODIS, AFIS, NIBIN), and expert testimony
Domain
Law enforcement / Forensic Science
Required skills
Forensic evidence analysis, DNA sample processing, crime scene processing, expert witness testimony, quality control audits, technical protocol development, grant writing, legislative advocacy, training of personnel, database management (CODIS/AFIS/NIBIN)
Preferred skills
Advanced scientific research, new technique validation, complex case analysis, independent crime scene processing
Technologies
CODIS, AFIS, PDQ, NIBIN, ISO IEC 17025 compliant lab equipment
Responsibilities
Perform scientific analysis on evidence items and issue reports; process and interpret crime scenes including fingerprinting deceased persons; testify as an expert witness in court; review and assess federal publications and directives; identify and write grant applications; provide training to law enforcement and legal professionals; monitor and write legislation to improve forensics; perform internal quality audits; develop and maintain technical protocols and safety policies.