Careers

Vacancy: Reporting Forensic Scientist

Job Title:

Reporting Forensic Scientist

Summary of Job:

A forensic scientist with biological specialisation who has experience of a broad range of scientific techniques, scene attendance and court appearance as an expert witness. This person will be expected to handle a full casework load and to provide forensic case strategy, whilst providing a liaison point with our police customers.

Reporting Relationship:

Reporting to Senior Reporting Forensic Scientist

Principal Accountabilities:

• Case management and coordination, to ensure the integration of evidential findings from all specialised analyses and to ensure appropriate communication with all case stake holders.
• To liaise with police officers and other authorities to establish a forensic strategy as required on a case by case basis.
• Examination of crime scene samples in accordance with the agreed forensic strategy, (this examination will incorporate a broad range of potential evidence types).
• Ensure that high quality standards and integrity of the forensic analysis process are maintained at all times.
• Preparation of reports for (e.g.) police, CPS, coroner.
• Provide verbal and written testimony for the results reported.
• Responding to routine enquiries and urgent enquiries to a high standard.
• To train and mentor staff in a broad range of examination techniques and reporting procedures
• Maintain an up to date and complete technical knowledge of a broad range of forensic analysis processes.

Subordinates:

To be determined

Job Requirements:

Education:

• B.Sc. Degree in Biology, Genetics, Forensics or related subject.
• Accredited by CRFP

Competencies:

• Competent at reporting a broad range of cases including serious crimes such as rape and murder
• Experience of presenting expert evidence in court
• Competent to interpret the results of DNA analysis, including complex mixtures, and possessing a knowledge of the forensic DNA profiling process.
• Understanding of casework assessment and interpretation
• Ability to undertake bloodstain pattern analysis in the laboratory and at crime scenes and to report the findings.
• Experience in the examination of textile damage and of hairs would be an advantage

Technical Skills:

• Laboratory examination of casework items for biological evidence
• Familiarity with using computers for word processing and other applications.
• In depth knowledge of present DNA profiling techniques and associated statistical evaluation
• Knowledge of the legal system as it pertains to forensic science.
• Knowledge of validation procedures
• Solid background in biology and forensics. Chemistry experience would be an advantage.
• Ability to present technical data clearly and concisely in both written and verbal forms
• Maintain an awareness of developments in forensic science.

Non-Technical Skills:

• Excellent verbal communication and presentation skills.
• Highly ethically motivated
• Management, motivating and mentoring skills
• Project management experience.
• Professional demeanour.
• Innovative and enthusiasm to instigate change
• Gravitas.

Physical Demands:

• This role requires good concentration, meticulous attention to detail, and accurate record keeping.
• Some crime scene attendance may be required which could be out of hours in inhospitable environments.
• VDU Operation
• Microscopy
• Sitting

Working Conditions:

• A computer workstation in an air conditioned office.
• Laboratory work
• Will be required to take part in out of hours and weekend working rota
• Occasional requirement to be on call for emergencies

To apply email us your current CV with a covering letter.