FORENSIC SCIENTIST (BIOLOGY) III
21910
The work involves responsibility for collecting evidence, performing scientific testing and analyses of known and unknown biological substances and evidentiary material required in criminal and civil investigations and autopsies, preparation and presentation of findings in written reports and serving as an expert witness in court. The Forensic Scientist (Biology) III is involved in more complex forensic DNA cases and may assist in general laboratory maintenance, maintaining quality assurance, developing operating procedures, and provides guidance and training to less experienced personnel and clients. General supervision is received from the Senior DNA Scientist. All work is performed in accordance with Federal and State accreditation requirements and departmental procedure manuals and guidelines. Does related work as required.
Performs qualitative and physical analyses involving chemical, microscopic comparison, photography, DNA extraction and amplification, electrophoresis, computer and statistical analysis, and similar and related techniques.
Performs biological fluid analysis and forensic DNA comparisons on evidentiary materials and known biological samples.
Examines crime scenes and conducts on-scene and off-scene collection and preservation of evidence, handles materials and samples before and after analysis in order to maintain them for the chain of custody and evidence control procedures.
Performs and ensures routine prevention maintenance and calibration of laboratory equipment and analytical instruments; makes recommendations essential to maintaining laboratory standards and quality control procedures; participates in the quality control program within the laboratory; ensures maintenance of proper supplies, equipment, solutions and reagents.
Performs quality control and quality audit related tasks, participates in internal and external proficiency tests; assists in the review and preparation of competency and proficiency tests; engages in technical and peer review of casework.
Implements and monitors laboratory health and safety policies and procedures.
Assists in developing and implementing new laboratory methods and procedures for improving forensic analyses/DNA comparisons.
Evaluates and recommends modifications of existing testing procedures in order to meet specified requirements of a particular scientific laboratory investigation.
Researches technical journals, textbooks, chemical manuals and other source materials to determine the best methods of performing analytical testing and to remain abreast of scientific trends.
Serves as an expert witness in court regarding forensic analysis.
Trains less experienced personnel.
Participates in educational training sessions to client agencies.
Attends meetings on and off-site.
Participates in public health preparedness activities as trained and assigned.
Thorough knowledge of the theory, procedures, and techniques necessary to produce reliable results and conclusions relative to the areas of biological fluid analysis and forensic DNA analysis as they relate to criminal and civil investigations and autopsies.
Thorough knowledge of modern laboratory techniques, procedures, instrumentation, and safety precautions used in the fields of biological fluid analysis and forensic DNA analysis.
Thorough knowledge of the scientific principles of molecular biology, biochemistry, and genetics as they relate to forensic DNA analysis.
Ability to record, organize, analyze and present data with scientific accuracy and thoroughness.
Ability to interpret laboratory analysis techniques, procedures, and theories, orally and in writing, in a clear and concise manner so that the non-scientist may understand the significance of the results obtained.
Ability to demonstrate initiative, motivation, and dependability.
Ability to make sound judgments.
Ability to train less experienced co-workers and clients.
Physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.
Graduation from a regionally accredited college or university or one accredited by the New York State Board of Regents to grant degrees with a Bachelor’s Degree in a natural science, forensic science, criminalistics or a closely related field which must include or be supplemented by a minimum of nine (9) semester or equivalent hours of coursework (graduate/undergraduate) covering the following subject areas: biochemistry, genetics, and molecular biology, or other subjects which provide a basic understanding of the foundation of forensic DNA analysis and five (5) years of work experience, or its part-time equivalent, performing duties similar to a Forensic Scientist (Biology).
*Statistics/population genetics, biochemistry, genetics and molecular biology must be the primary component of the classes or courses; coursework completed with titles other than those listed may demonstrate compliance through submission of a student transcript, letter from university professor verifying course content, or a course syllabus The DNA training program previously offered by the FBI Laboratory, with graduate credit hours from the University of Virginia, may be applied toward the molecular biology coursework requirement associated with this standard. Statistics/population genetics training or coursework may be satisfied through internal or external mechanisms.
NOTE: Education may be substituted for experience as follows:
A Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree (Ph.D.) in a natural science, forensic science, criminalistics or a closely related field can be substituted for One (1) year of the required work experience.
BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION:
Applicants will be required to undergo a State and national criminal history background investigation which will include a fingerprint check to determine suitability for appointment. Failure to meet the standards for the background investigation may result in disqualification
2/2009 Date Revised