When you hear the word Forensics, for most of us the first thing that comes to our mind is Dr. Salunke and Dr. Tarika of CID. Have you ever thought of working in those high-tech labs, finding fingerprints and mixing chemicals for finding the prime suspect? Then this fascinating career in Forensics Sciences is just for you?
What is Forensic Sciences?
Forensic Sciences is a vital aspect in the modern-day judicial system where a forensic expert works in coordination to find out the evidence of a crime committed to the courts and help them to solve the case with legally acceptable evidence.
It is a multi-disciplinary subject encompassing various fields like physics, chemistry, biology, geology, psychology, social sciences, engineering etc. It is an interesting link between science and crime. Most of the criminal cases are solved by Forensic Experts. It is the application of scientific knowledge and methodology for solving criminal cases and legal problems and for protecting public health, enforcement of criminal laws and regulations and resolving civil disputes.
Responsibilities of forensic professionals
The following are some of the responsibilities of Forensic professionals like forensic scientists.
- Collect, identify, classify and analyze the physical evidence in criminal investigations.
- Performing tests on weapons or collected substances like hair, fibre and tissue found at the crime scene.
- Testify as expert witnesses on gathered evidence or usage of crime laboratory techniques.
- Preparation of reports and maintaining the detailed findings, investigative methods and lab techniques.
- Use photographic and video equipment for documentation of crime scene evidence.
- Visiting morgues, examining crime scenes and contacting other sources for obtaining evidence or information for carrying out investigations.
- Reconstruction of crime scenes for determining the relationship between different pieces of evidence.
Education and Eligibility
- Completion of 10+2 in Science stream from a recognized board.
- Completion of undergraduate courses to become a forensic expert. Pursue courses like B.sc Forensic Sciences and/or criminology, B.Tech in Cyber Security and Forensics, B,Sc in Biology or Chemistry.
- Pursue specialized masters program or Post graduate Diploma in forensic sciences.
- For career advancement and handsome pay package, pursue M.Phil or PhD in forensic Sciences.
Top Institutes in India offering courses in Forensic Sciences
- Central Forensic Research Laboratory in Hyderabad, Chandigarh and Kolkata.
- Institute of Criminology and Forensic Sciences, New Delhi.
- Anna University, Chennai.
- Gujarat Forensic Sciences University.
- The University of Lucknow.
- Xavier’s College, Mumbai.
Top Universities in abroad for forensic sciences
- Virginia Commonwealth University.
- University of Technology in Sydney.
- University of Liverpool.
- University of Glasgow.
- University of Oxford.
Skills Required
The following are some of the skills a forensic scientist should possess for identification and collecting the evidence, gathering correct information for arresting the culprit and investigating about the crime.
- Research skills for learning about latest technologies.
- Excellent observation skills and a keen eye for detail.
- Analytical Skills and Mathematical Reasoning.
- Logical and Creative thinking skills.
- Strong technical skills in various science fields.
- Chemistry and data Analysis.
- Chromatography.
- Electron Microscopy and DNA profiling.
Job Profiles in Forensic Sciences
The Forensic Sciences graduates can join in any of the following roles after graduation like:
- Crime Reporter.
- Forensic Expert.
- Forensic Scientist.
- Forensic Serologist.
- Forensic Psychologist.
- Latent fingerprint examiner.
- Legal Counselor.
- Handwriting expert.
- Teacher/Professor.
- Forensic Engineer.
Top recruiters of Forensic Sciences graduates
The following are the organizations a forensic graduate can be employed is based on his specialization:
- Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
- Intelligence Bureau (Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India).
- Broadcast Engineering Consultants India Limited (BECIL).
- IFO forensic Sciences and Research Pvt Ltd.
- Quality Control Bureau.
- Hospitals.
- Private Detective Agencies.
- Defence or Army.
- Police Departments and Law firms.
Salary and Career Outlook
The salary of a Forensic Science graduate depends on the sector he works in. In the government sector, the salary is fixed and depends on the pay scale and structure. In private organizations, an entry-level forensic expert can earn an average of INR 3-4 LPA. With experience, these professionals can earn INR 6-10 LPA. In abroad, the salary of forensic professionals on average is $52,000 annually in the US and other foreign countries is $97,400.
Most of the job opportunities for forensic professionals are in the government sector like in law enforcement agencies such as police, legal departments and investigative services of central and state governments.
The crime rates are going on increasing every day. There is a huge demand for highly qualified and skilled Forensic Science experts in India. Lack of awareness and fewer students opting for these courses is also raising the demand and supply gap.
– Samiya Firdous
