Steadfast objectivity and a keen interest in solving mysteries may be at the core of successful forensic scientists. However, the discipline requires substantially more than unbiased judgment and a fascination with science. From comprehensive knowledge of the law to a facility with laboratory equipment, excelling in the field of forensic science demands a diverse set of forensic scientist requirements and skills.¹

What these capabilities might be may ultimately depend on the career path you choose to pursue. And yet, forensic scientists across the board have several essential competencies in common. Let’s look at five of the most vital forensic scientist skills and their impact on the criminal justice system.

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1. Technical Skills in Forensic Science

The very phrase “forensic science” might call to mind the image of an expert arriving at a crime scene, blowing off shell casings, following trails of blood, and searching for torn clothing—ideas of the profession that have been heavily influenced by film and television.²

While it’s true that some forensic scientists work as crime scene investigators, just as many forensic science technicians work behind the scenes to perform highly-technical tasks, such as:³

• Extracting DNA from blood samples
• Examining bullets, hairs, fibers, and more with the use of a microscope
• Uncovering data and materials found in digital devices like smartphones and laptops⁴
• Testing human blood for the presence of intoxicants⁵
• Developing, evaluating, and comparing latent fingerprints⁶
• Conducting data analytics

Naturally, this part of the forensic scientist job description calls for a strong foundation in the sciences, as well as a robust understanding of the latest forensic tools, equipment, and technologies. But the payoff can be enormous. Advances in DNA analysis in forensic science and genetic genealogy research have helped solve a host of criminal cases, including the identification of “The Golden State Killer.”⁷

2. Analytical and Critical Thinking Skills

The ability to analyze and interpret evidence, and form an unprejudiced, comprehensively thought-out hypothesis, is essential to thriving in forensic science jobs. Further, a forensic scientist must be able to determine the relevance of physical evidence, and apply deductive reasoning during a criminal investigation to link it to the possible intricacies of a crime, the suspect, and victims.

Take the case of Jeffrey Dahmer, for example.⁸ The infamous murderer was responsible for killing 17 men in the 1970s and 80s. He was apprehended and brought to justice through the use of criminal profiling, a niche within forensic science that analyzes behavioral patterns to create a logical, meaningful profile of potential criminal offenders.

3. Attention to Detail

Attention to detail is also crucial for forensic scientists, whether they work as a digital forensic scientist or a crime scene investigator. But do forensic scientists go to crime scenes regularly?

Crime scene technicians, for one, must scout out every inch of a crime scene to uncover and examine critical pieces of evidence, such as:

• Footprints
• Tire tracks
• Blood and other bodily fluids
• Bullet casings
• Hairs
• Fibers

Forensic investigation demands a depth of meticulousness that cannot be overstated. Even a seemingly small error can result in a wrongful conviction.⁹ What’s more, an outstanding eye for detail helps ensure forensic scientists adhere to key regulations, policies, and procedures.

4. Communication and Interpersonal Skills

Forensic scientists are, by and large, part of a greater team. As such, they need to possess the ability to communicate well with a wide range of people, such as:

• Investigators and other law enforcement personnel 
• Members of the legal and judicial system
• Medical professionals
• Witnesses

Additionally, forensic scientists are frequently required to testify in court. This calls for professionalism, honesty, and eloquence, and the capacity to remain calm during criminal and civil cases.

5. Continuous Learning and Adaptability

Forensic science may date back to ancient Greek and Roman cultures, but the field has evolved dramatically since its start—and continues to do so to this day.¹⁰ One might wonder, is forensic science a good career in today's world?

In recent years, technology has transformed criminal investigations. Now, they’re performed with unprecedented speed and accuracy. This is thanks to the likes of:

• Rapid DNA testing 
• Cloud forensics
• Automated fingerprint and facial recognition 
• Alternative light photography
• Time-tracing fingerprint technology
• Drones

Accordingly, forensic scientists must stay on the cutting edge of the latest research and laboratory science technologies, just as they must commit to adaptability. This may entail pursuing an advanced degree in the field or obtaining specialized training.

The potential result of your efforts, though? A rewarding career that helps contribute to a more just and equitable society.

Develop Your Forensic Scientist Skills at Alliant International University

Forensic scientist skills run the gamut from computer proficiency to active listening. The competencies you might choose to practice and refine may hinge on the specific role you’re after, but one thing holds true: Practical education and hands-on training is fundamental to any forensic scientist’s success.

This is where Alliant International University comes in. Our MS in Forensic Science, Investigation, & Technology equips students with the knowledge and confidence they need to flourish. In addition to helping candidates develop both foundational and advanced skills in evidence collection and evaluation, the program concentrates on ethics, law, documentation, and cultural intelligence. This helps round out your education, and leave you primed to dive into even the most seemingly complex cases.

Discover the rich instruction that awaits at Alliant International University.

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Sources:

1. 18 in-demand skills for a forensic scientist to Learn | Indeed.com India. https://in.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/skills-for-a-for…. Accessed July 18, 2024. 
2. Crime Scene Examination.” National Institute of Justice. https://nij.ojp.gov/topics/law-enforcement/investigations/crime-scene. Accessed July 17, 2024. 
3. Malone, Maureen. “Skills Needed to Be a Forensic Science Technician.” Work, March 14, 2022. https://work.chron.com/skills-needed-forensic-science-technician-16848…. Accessed July 18, 2024. 
4. Tyas Tunggal, Abi. “What Is Digital Forensics?: Upguard.” RSS, April 26, 2024. https://www.upguard.com/blog/digital-forensics. Accessed July 17, 2024.
5. 10 forensic police jobs (with duties and requirements) | indeed.com, September 30, 2022. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/forensic-police-jobs. Accessed July 17, 2024. 
6. Forensic Sciences Careers.” DEA. https://www.dea.gov/careers/forensic-sciences. Accessed July 17, 2024.
7. Valko, Alana. “11 Cold Cases That Had Revolutionary Breakthroughs Decades Later.” BuzzFeed, October 24, 2023. https://www.buzzfeed.com/alanavalko/true-crime-cold-cases-recently-solv…. Accessed July 17, 2024.
8. Cassick, Callie, and Fox News. “Criminal Profiling: The Techniques Used by Police to Catch Dangerous Offenders.” Fox News, March 28, 2024. https://www.foxnews.com/us/true-crime-criminal-profiling. Accessed June 25, 2024. 
9. “The Impact of False or Misleading Forensic Evidence on Wrongful Convictions.” National Institute of Justice. https://nij.ojp.gov/topics/articles/impact-false-or-misleading-forensic…. Accessed July 18, 2024. 
10. Teja, | Sai. “History of Forensic Science .” Texial, January 3, 2024. https://texial.net/history-of-forensic-science/. Accessed July 18, 2024.