The forensic sciences can be defined as the application of science to the law. These help in establishing a link between the criminal and the crime by analysing the physical evidence obtained from the scene of the crime.
The Work
Forensic experts are involved in all aspects of criminal cases, their goal is to use all available evidence/information to determine the facts and, subsequently, the truth. Such evidence commonly includes blood and other body fluids, hairs, textile fibres from clothing etc, materials used in buildings such as paint and glass, footwear, tool and tyre marks, flammable substances used to start fires and so on. Sometimes the scientist will visit the scene itself to advise about likely sequence of events, any indicators as to who the perpetrator might be, and to join in the initial search for evidence.
Other forensic scintists may analyse suspected drugs of abuse, specimens from people thought to have taken them or to have been driving after drinking too much alcohol, or to have been poisoned. Yet other specialise in firearms, explosives, or documents whose authenticity is questioned.
Sometimes, these scientists are required to attend court to give their evidence in person. They can appear for either side criminal matters, and plaintiff or defendant in civil ones. They tend to present their findings and opinions in written from either as formal statements of evidence or reports.
Getting In
Most forensic science lab positions require at least a Bachelor's degree in physical science. But in order to become a forensic scientist one requires a postgraduation supplemented with further education. Eligibility for M.Sc. in Forensic Science is a graduate degree in science with physics, Chemistry, Zoology, Botany, Biochemistry, or Applied Sciences.
Key Skills
* An inquisitive nature and a concern for accuracy
* Strong analytical skills
* Keen observation and an eye for detail
* Logical bent of mind
* Good communication skills in order to give comprehensible testimonies in court.
Where to Study?
* University of Delhi, Delhi (http://www.du.ac.in/)
* Anna University, Chennai (http://www.annauniv.edu/)
* University of Madras, Chennai (http://www.unom.ac.in/)
* Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi (http://www.bhu.ac.in/)
* Forensic House, Chennai (www.tn.gov.in/tamilforensic/default.htm)
* Karnataka University, Dharwar (http://www.kud.emet.in/)
* Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai (http://www.tiss.edu/)
* University of Lucknow, Lucknow (http://www.lkouniv.ac.in/)
* Panjab University, Chandigarh (http://www.puchd.ac.in/)
* Central Forensic Science Laboratory at Hyderabad, Chandigarh and Kolkata (www.cbi.gov.in/cfsl/about.htm)
* LNJN National Institute of Criminology and Forensic Science, Delhi (http://www.nicfs.nic.in/)
* Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu (http://www.msuniversitytvl.net/)
Remuneration
Forensic scientists with postgraduation start with a salary of Rs. 10,000-15,000 depending on the nature of the organisation. Private forensic laboratories offer lucrative pay packages to scientists with a few years of experience behind them. A freelancer in the field can charge according to requirements of the individual case.
Prospects
Forensic scientists work in the district forensic laboratories, courts, prisons, CBI, police, detective and security agencies and law firms. After a few years of experience they can also set up their own forensic laboratories.
Due to the sharp rise in the incidence of crime and fraud, there is an acute shortage of forensic scientists in the country. The prospects for forensic scientists are increasing in the private sector too. Corporate houses are likely to hire forensic experts in a big way in future owing to the growing incidence of white-collar crimes, frauds and scams.
_______________ Wisdom
