CSI

Real Life Forensic Scientist

• One person does a little of everything (investigate, interrogate, collect evidence, arrest people, analyze evidence)

• Police officers do crime scene investigation, interrogations, arrests
• Forensic scientists are IN THE LAB analyzing the evidence

• Analysis of evidence is completed in minutes
• Results are always clear and definite

• Analysis may take hours, days, weeks, or months
• Results need interpretation of a skilled scientist

• No messy paperwork to fill out

• LOTS of paperwork and report-writing required

• Forensic scientists respond to all crime scenes

• Rarely go to crime scenes

• Cool Hummer vehicles and all the latest equipment is available

• Most labs are state-funded, and budgets are often tight

• All alternate lighting is blue

• Need good full-spectrum lighting

• Dress in stylish clothing

• Conservative, professional dress and appearance required for court session
• Workplace attire appropriate for a laboratory setting

• Characters have degrees in chemistry, biology, or other sciences

• Challenging college course work in chemistry, biology, physics and math are needed to get the degree that will let you work in a crime lab