JOB TITLE: FORENSIC DNA SCIENTIST TRAINEE

JOB CODE: 72055

SERIES NATURE OF WORK: The Forensic Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) Scientist job series describes work involving the chemical and biological analysis of forensic human DNA.

DEFINITION: This is entry level laboratory work in the chemical and biological analysis of forensic human DNA.

An employee in this job participates in structured training and practical exercises designed to develop proficiency in performing chemical and biological analysis and comparison of human DNA samples and evidence gathered and submitted by law enforcement authorities. Work involves receiving instruction in the techniques and procedures utilized in a State Police forensic DNA laboratory in the scientific analysis of DNA samples collected from known individuals and criminal casework. Work also involves training in preparing analytical reports associated with evidence processed, maintaining evidence chain of custody, delivering testimony at court proceedings, and maintaining laboratory equipment and reagents. Work is performed under the immediate supervision of a professional employee who assigns and reviews work for quality, completeness, technical merit, and compliance with laboratory policies and standards. Work is performed with increasing independence as experience is gained.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: (NOTE: The examples of work are representative of the work, but every position classified to this job may not perform all examples of work listed. Conversely, this is not an all-inclusive list of work examples.)

• Receives training in chemical and biological techniques such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), short tandem repeat (STR) analysis, and capillary electrophoresis.

• Receives training in the various techniques used for the collection, preservation, and handling of evidence, including samples from convicted offenders, and in the importance of maintaining and documenting evidence chain of custody.

• Receives training in the identification of human DNA profiles.

• Receives training in the analysis of DNA samples collected from known individuals.

• Receives training in isolation, extraction, and amplification of human DNA from forensic casework.

• Receives training in conducting forensic DNA analysis.

• Receives training in comparing known and unknown DNA profiles and statistically interpreting the results as a match, nonmatch, or inconclusive.

• Receives training in the use of thermal cyclers, genetic analyzers, automation platforms, the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS), and other equipment and systems unique to the forensic DNA program.

• Receives training in preparing detailed records of analysis and findings that are compliant with laboratory policies and the laws governing the admissibility of evidence in court.

• Receives training in courtroom procedures, courtroom demeanor, and delivering testimony, and participates in mock trials.

• Receives training in laws and standards that apply to DNA analysis and lab accreditation.

• Receives training in conducting performance checks and maintenance of laboratory equipment.

• Receives training in inspecting reagents and supplies common to the forensic DNA discipline to ensure that they meet quality standards and specifications.

• Attends and participates in staff meetings, conferences, and other training and developmental activities.

• Reviews pertinent operational manuals, textbooks, journals, periodicals, and other documents.

• Performs related work as required.

ENTRY LEVEL KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of the principles and practices of quantitative and qualitative biochemical and chemical analysis.

• Knowledge of the principles and practices of molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, and population genetics or statistics.

• Knowledge of biochemical and chemical laboratory equipment and materials.

• Ability to perform complex calculations to make comparative assessments of relevant data and evidence to yield final results.

• Ability to prepare scientifically accurate and thorough laboratory reports of analysis and findings.

• Ability to read and interpret technical material.

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

• Ability to effectively communicate orally.

• Ability to effectively communicate in writing.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: (NOTE: Based on the Entry Level Knowledges, Skills, and Abilities)

• A bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology, forensic science, or a closely related physical or natural science, which includes or is supplemented by 16 college credits in chemistry and three credits each in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, and population genetics or statistics.