Resources/Resume-Guide/Forensic Scientist
Forensic Scientist Resume Guidance
Forensic scientists assist law enforcement professionals in identifying and analyzing criminal evidence. This career requires many skills, like detail orientation, problem-solving, and deductive reasoning.18 Aug 2024
1. Personal Information
Include your name, phone number, email, and city/state. Optionally, add a LinkedIn profile or a link to a professional portfolio, if relevant.
2. Resume Objective or Summary
Craft a concise statement summarizing your expertise, skills, and goals. Tailor it to the job you’re applying for.
Example:
Meticulous and results-driven forensic scientist with 5+ years of experience analyzing physical evidence in criminal investigations. Proficient in laboratory techniques, evidence preservation, and data analysis. Dedicated to supporting justice through accurate, detailed forensic reporting and expert testimony.
3. Skills Section
Highlight technical and soft skills relevant to forensic science, such as:
- Evidence collection and preservation
- DNA analysis and profiling
- Fingerprint analysis
- Toxicology testing
- Criminal investigations
- Laboratory techniques (GC-MS, FTIR, PCR, etc.)
- Report writing and documentation
- Courtroom testimony
- Problem-solving and attention to detail
4. Work Experience
List positions in reverse chronological order. Focus on achievements and technical responsibilities, using quantifiable results where possible.
Example:
Forensic Scientist
State Crime Lab, Austin, TX
June 2019 – Present
- Conducted DNA analysis and toxicological testing on biological samples for over 150 criminal cases annually.
- Authored detailed forensic reports used in legal proceedings, achieving a 95% accuracy rate in court-presented findings.
- Provided expert testimony in 25+ criminal trials, effectively explaining complex scientific processes to juries.
- Ensured adherence to chain-of-custody protocols, reducing evidence contamination risks by 30%.
Forensic Lab Technician
City Police Department, Denver, CO
August 2016 – May 2019
- Processed and analyzed trace evidence, including fibers, hair, and residues, for ongoing investigations.
- Supported crime scene teams by collecting and documenting physical evidence in compliance with legal standards.
- Implemented quality control procedures, increasing lab efficiency by 20%.
5. Education
Include your degree(s), school(s), and graduation dates. Highlight relevant coursework, especially if you’re an entry-level candidate.
Example:
Master of Science in Forensic Science
University of New Haven, New Haven, CT
Graduated: May 2019
Bachelor of Science in Chemistry
University of Texas, Austin, TX
Graduated: May 2016
6. Certifications
List certifications and training relevant to forensic science, such as:
- Certified Forensic Scientist (CFS)
- Crime Scene Investigator (CSI) Certification
- DNA Analyst Certification (e.g., ASCLD/LAB)
- Training in specialized equipment (e.g., GC-MS, SEM, or MALDI-TOF MS)
7. Optional Sections
- Professional Affiliations: E.g., American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS)
- Publications/Presentations: Include research papers, case studies, or conference presentations.
- Volunteer Work: Relevant community service or pro bono case contributions.
Forensic Scientist Resume Example
[Your Name]
[Phone Number] | [Email Address] | [City, State] | [LinkedIn/Portfolio URL]
Objective
Meticulous and results-driven forensic scientist with 5+ years of experience analyzing physical evidence in criminal investigations. Proficient in laboratory techniques, evidence preservation, and data analysis. Dedicated to supporting justice through accurate, detailed forensic reporting and expert testimony.
Skills
- DNA analysis and toxicology testing
- Evidence collection and preservation
- Criminal investigations and expert testimony
- Advanced laboratory techniques (GC-MS, FTIR, PCR)
- Data interpretation and forensic report writing
- Chain-of-custody protocols
Experience
Forensic Scientist
State Crime Lab, Austin, TX
June 2019 – Present
- Conducted DNA analysis and toxicological testing on biological samples for over 150 criminal cases annually.
- Authored detailed forensic reports used in legal proceedings, achieving a 95% accuracy rate in court-presented findings.
- Provided expert testimony in 25+ criminal trials, effectively explaining complex scientific processes to juries.
- Ensured adherence to chain-of-custody protocols, reducing evidence contamination risks by 30%.
Forensic Lab Technician
City Police Department, Denver, CO
August 2016 – May 2019
- Processed and analyzed trace evidence, including fibers, hair, and residues, for ongoing investigations.
- Supported crime scene teams by collecting and documenting physical evidence in compliance with legal standards.
- Implemented quality control procedures, increasing lab efficiency by 20%.
Education
Master of Science in Forensic Science
University of New Haven, New Haven, CT
Graduated: May 2019
Bachelor of Science in Chemistry
University of Texas, Austin, TX
Graduated: May 2016
Certifications
- Certified Forensic Scientist (CFS)
- DNA Analyst Certification
- GC-MS and FTIR Equipment Training
Professional Affiliations
Member, International Association for Identification (IAI)
Member, American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS)