Careers for Forensic Chemistry

Careers for Forensic Chemistry

At Marshall University, our Forensic Chemistry program offers a comprehensive and dynamic education that prepares you for a wide range of careers.

A word cloud featuring various careers in forensic chemistry

Career Fields & Popular Careers

Forensic Analysis & Laboratory Work
Forensic Analysis & Laboratory Work

This group focuses on careers that involve analyzing evidence and conducting laboratory tests to support criminal investigations. Professionals in these roles work in crime labs, forensic labs, and research institutions.

Popular Careers

  • Forensic Chemist – Analyzes chemicals and substances found at crime scenes.
  • DNA Analyst – Examines genetic evidence to help solve criminal cases.
  • Crime Lab Analyst – Processes and tests evidence in a forensic laboratory.

Career Information

Field Investigation & Crime Scene Work
Field Investigation & Crime Scene Work

This category includes careers that involve investigating crime scenes, collecting evidence, and analyzing physical evidence on-site. These roles are often found in law enforcement agencies and private investigation firms.

Popular Careers

  • Crime Scene Investigator – Collects and documents physical evidence from crime scenes.
  • Arson Investigator – Collects and documents physical evidence from crime scenes.
  • Fire Investigator – Examines fire scenes to uncover origins and potential crimes.

Career Information

Forensic Toxicology & Pathology
Forensic Toxicology & Pathology

Careers in this group apply toxicology and pathology principles to investigate causes of death, poisoning, and substance use. These professionals work in medical examiner offices, hospitals, and forensic labs.

Popular Careers

  • Toxicologist – Studies how chemicals and poisons affect the human body.
  • Forensic Toxicologist – Identifies toxins in blood, tissue, or other evidence.
  • Forensic Pathology Assistant – Supports autopsies to help determine causes of death.

Career Information

Forensic Engineering & Document Examination
Forensic Engineering & Document Examination

This group involves careers that focus on examining documents, materials, and engineering aspects related to criminal investigations. These roles are prevalent in forensic labs and consulting firms.

Popular Careers

  • Forensic Document Examiner – Analyzes handwriting, paper, and inks in legal cases.
  • Firearm and Toolmark Examiner – Matches bullets and tools to weapons or objects.
  • Forensic Materials Analyst – Tests unknown substances like fibers, paint, or glass.

Career Information

Forensic Science & Education
Forensic Science & Education

Careers in this category focus on educating future forensic scientists and providing expert consulting services in legal cases. Professionals in these roles work in academic institutions, consulting firms, and as independent experts.

Popular Careers

  • Forensic Science Educator – Teaches students how science applies to criminal investigations.
  • Legal Forensics Consultant – Advises legal teams using expert knowledge of forensics.
  • Court Expert Witness – Explains scientific evidence to juries during trials.

Career Information

 

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