01/28/2011 72061

FORENSIC SCIENTIST TRAINEE

DEFINITION: This is entry level work in the chemical, physical and biological analysis and comparison of criminal evidence.

An employee in this job participates in structured training and practical casework designed to develop proficiency in performing chemical, physical and biological analysis and comparison of evidence gathered and submitted by law enforcement authorities. Work involves receiving instruction in the techniques and methods utilized by one of the State Police forensic laboratory’s discipline areas, such as drug identification, serological examinations, and trace evidence analysis. Work also involves training in preparing analytical reports associated with evidence processed, maintaining evidence chain of custody, delivering testimony, 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: Receives training in physical, chemical, microscopic, chromatographic and instrumental techniques such as gas chromatography, ultraviolet spectrophotometry, infrared spectrophotometry, atomic absorption spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, energy dispersive Xray spectrometry and electron microscopy.

Receives training in the identification of controlled drug substances and related chemical compounds.

Receives training in the comparison and identification of physical evidence such as hairs, fibers, paints, polymers, fire debris, drugs, glass, gunshot primer residue, obliterated serial numbers, and metals.

Receives training in the identification of biological fluids and assessment of same for potential forensic DNA analysis.

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

Receives training in preparing detailed case 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 maintaining and calibrating scientific instruments common to the assigned forensic discipline.

Performs limited practical casework by examining, comparing, identifying and evaluating physical evidence.

Assists in preparing analytical reports associated with evidence processed.

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

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

Performs related work as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of the principles and practices of quantitative and qualitative biochemical and chemical analysis.

Knowledge of biochemical, chemical and physical laboratory equipment and materials.

Knowledge of the principles of physics.

Knowledge of the practices of physical testing.

Ability to perform complex calculations to make comparative assessments and yield final results.

Ability to prepare scientifically accurate and thorough 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: 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.