Forensic scientist : Training

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1. Job description
2. Salary and conditions
3. Entry requirements
4. Career development
5. Training
6. Employers and vacancy …
7. Related jobs

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Case studies

• Forensic scientist: Moina Macaskill

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Training varies according to the employer and area of specialty, all entrants will already have relevant educational experience. However, most graduate entrants are likely to undergo a programme of on-the-job training and development, which may involve short, residential courses. Employers provide a programme of training for each new intake of employees. Technical areas covered may include:

• laboratory skills and proficiency tests;
• blood pattern analysis;
• statement writing.

More general skills areas in which new entrants may receive training include:

• health and safety;
• court room and presentation skills;
• project management.

External courses are provided by the relevant sector organisations. Course content will depend on the trainee's original discipline. Occasionally, within the research and development sector, work may be written up as a research project, leading to a PhD or MSc. The changing nature of forensic science means that keeping up to date with research is a vital part of continuing professional development (CPD) at all levels.