FORENSIC SCIENTISTS

Discussion About how to become Forensic Scientists and their work profile and Job prospects

INTRODUCTION
Forensic science is primarily concerned with the application of scientific principles for the investigation of crime. Using the very latest in technology, forensic scientists convert the clues collected from a crime scene in evidence admissible in a court of law. It is the use or application of science in courts or legal proceedings. This is a challenging and interesting field for those who have are inquisitive and loves adventure. The job involves close examination of samples of evidence in the laboratory using microscope, spectroscopes, infrared and ultraviolet lights, etc. They also photograph the site of the crime to piece together facts and document evidence.

Forensic Science is essentially a crime laboratory-based profession; the course qualifies students to apply their knowledge of science to the investigation of crime. But the expertise of a forensic professional is also used in civil cases for issues like proving the validity of a signature on a will, to a claim of the products liability, to find out whether an industry is complying with environmental rules.

Forensic scientists scientifically analyze, identify and classify physical evidence relating to criminal or suspected cases of crime. They investigate the site of the crime to look for evidence. During criminal proceedings in court they testify and explain, with records, their findings and interpretations.

EDUCATIONAL TRAITS
To take up a masters course in forensic science you need to be a graduate preferably with a first division in Physics. chemistry, zoology, botany, biochemistry, microbiology, B.pharm, BOS or applied science.
To become a specialist who conducts postmortems on dead bodies to find out the cause of death, you must secure an MBBS degree and then go for an MO in Forensic Science. All Indian Universities that offer MBBS courses also offer an MD in Forensic Science.

JOB PROSPECTS
Forensic scientists can find employment with law enforcement agencies, police, legal system and in the investigative services of the government and also private agencies. They can also work as teachers in institutes that conduct courses in this subject. Opportunities for forensic scientists exist in government organizations such as the Intelligence Bureau (IB), the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and as investigative officers in the crime cells of state police forces. Forensic experts essentially work in forensic labs and sometimes even in large private detective agencies to establish the link between the criminal and the crime.

CAREER OPTIONS

There are a variety of options for forensic professionals. The qualifications vary from one institute to another but the common criteria is that the student must hail from a science background .The options may include: Forensic pathology, Forensic toxicology, Forensic odontology, Forensic Anthropology, Forensic Psychology and Psychiatry, Clinical Forensic Medicine Forensic Entomology, Forensic Serology, Forensic Chemist, Dactyloscopy, Forensic linguists ,Ballistic , Toxicology.

EARNINGS

Remuneration for various state forensics departments would be as per government pay scales. The state department salaries begin around Rs. 4000 and increases according to the rank and years of experience. Forensic scientists holding postgraduate qualifications can expect to start with a salary of Rs. 6000 - RS.8000 depending on the nature of the organization. Private forensic laboratories offer lucrative pay packages to scientists with a few years of experience behind them. A freelancer in the field can charge according to requirements of the individual case.

PERSONAL TRAITS

An aptitude for scientific and systematic investigation is needed. .;' An eager mind, logic, curiosity, systematic work habits are essential. They must be trained to keep a balance during investigation by distancing themselves from the crime. An inquisitive nature and a concern for accuracy is the main attribute required. They must have keen observation, intelligence, an eye for detail, ability to work along with a team, a logical, practical and methodical approach