The Real World of a Forensic Scientist

by LEE, HENRY C.PAGLIARO, ELAINE M.

• ISBN13: 9781591027294
• ISBN10: 1591027292
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 2009-08-25
• Publisher: Prometheus Books

Summary

With the skyrocketing popularity of TV crime shows like CSI and CSI-Miami, interest in forensic science has reached unprec-edented levels. However compelling these programs are as dra-mas, they spread many misconceptions about the real world of the forensic scientist. Students who wish to pursue a career in this field are often unaware of the many diverse career choices available or have superficial notions of the rigors involved. In this in-depth insider's guide to this crucial area of criminal investi-gation, renowned forensic scientist Henry C Lee, along with veteran foren-sic experts Elaine M Pagliaro and Katherine Ramsland, provides a realis-tic picture of the education, skills, challenges, and rewards involved in the many specialities that encompass forensic science. Each of these specialities plays a role in unravelling seemingly baffling crimes. The first part of the book highlights Dr. Lee's personal story and forty-year career to demonstrate how forensic science developed in the twentieth century and came to be recognised by the courts and law enforcement as a crucial approach to investigating crimes. Dr. Lee shares many interesting stories about his experiences and those of his colleagues, who were instru-mental in developing forensic science laboratories in the United States. The second part focuses on careers in forensic science, illustrated by descriptions of high profile cases that required different forensic disciplines, including engineering, accounting, psychology, crime scene investigation, and DNA analysis. These cases also underscore the importance of forensic evidence in criminal and civil cases, national security, environmental pro-tection, and public safety. The third part presents the various specialties in forensic science cre-ated by the American Academy of Forensic Science; describes the types of evidence generally analysed in each area; and lays out the steps one should take to prepare for a career in a particular speciality. Also included is use-ful information about professional organisations, certification programs and requirements, laboratory opportunities, and university forensic science pro-grams. For those who wish to pursue a career in forensic science or for anyone who is interested in how criminal investigation is really done, this book is a must read.