|
A forensic chemist has the job of analyzing and testing
evidence from a crime scene, helping law enforcement officials, lawyers, and
judges to draw important conclusions about a criminal case. A person who wants
to become a forensic chemist typically graduates from high school and earns at
least a bachelor’s degree in chemistry. Additionally, some employers prefer job
applicants who have advanced education, so earning a master’s degree or a Doctor
of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree may prove helpful as well.An individual who becomes
a forensic chemist works to apply chemistry and other scientific knowledge to
analyzing crime scene evidence. He analyzes and tests evidence collected not
only from crimes scenes, but also from the bodies of victims or suspects. These
scientists may perform their work in labs as well as at crime scenes. Many
people think of forensic scientists as working to help prosecutors prove their
cases. In reality, a forensic chemist works to analyze evidence that may help
either the prosecution or the defense. An individual who wants to become a
forensic chemist will typically have to graduate from high school or earn a
general educational development (GED) degree. While in high school, a person
interested in this field may boost his chances for college success by taking
chemistry, biology, and other science courses. Math courses may prove helpful as
well. Since college degrees are often required of those beginning forensic
science careers, a person who wants to become a forensic chemist typically
pursues a bachelor's degree in chemistry. To improve his chances of securing a
job or advancing in his career, a person interested in this job may seek an
advanced science degree as well. Additionally, a prospective forensic chemist
can benefit from gaining experience working with lab instruments and tests.
While some of this experience may be gained in college, chemistry-related
internships or work-study jobs may prove helpful as well. In addition to
education, a person who wants to become a forensic chemist is usually expected
to have certain qualities and skills. For example, a person in this field
typically needs to be patient and capable of adapting to change. He should be
able to focus for long periods of time and pay attention to detail. He’ll also
need to be trustworthy and unbiased, demonstrating good communication skills as
well. |
