How to develop Portfolio as a Forensic Chemist, Assignments of Chemistry

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Portfolio: FORENSIC CHEMIST

By evaluating evidence ranging from fingerprints to chemical residues, my dream is to be a chemist that may give forensic experts and investigators with the knowledge they need to reach reasonable judgments about potential crimes. Successful evidence analysis is crucial to guaranteeing public justice. Forensic science has a long and illustrious history. Researchers have explored forensic ways to differentiate between innocence and proven guilty for hundreds of years. James Marsh, a chemist, developed a technique to assess whether materials contained the toxin arsenic in the early 1800s. The Scottish doctor Henry Faulds realized the possibility of utilizing human fingerprinting as a technique of identification at the end of the nineteenth century. Modern forensics laboratories use cutting-edge techniques as X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, trace chemical analysis and DNA fingerprinting to examine crime scene evidence. While many forensic laboratories utilize cutting-edge technology, forensic experts still evaluate physical evidence at crime scenes using traditional methods. To avoid contamination or sample deterioration, samples must be properly gathered before being tested in a forensic science laboratory. Before being taken from the crime scene, each sample is tagged and packed in a contaminate evidence bag. To ensure that the evidence is not tampered with throughout the transfer from the scene of a crime to the forensic laboratory, a meticulous record of all those who handled it is kept. Similarly, forensic scientists keep meticulous records of all tests done while the specimens are being evaluated, as the results will be used as evidence in court. A forensic match, it should be noted, gives strong proof that the accused was there at the murder site. The evidence, however, does not establish that the accused committed crimes. It cannot establish when a suspect arrived at the criminal investigation or his or her intent. To create a case, several additional pieces of evidence must come together.

Personal Development

I am willing to do a degree which is required in clinical chemistry or another similar scientific subject is usually required of a forensic scientist. In forensic chemistry, certain colleges now offer master's degrees and even doctorate degrees (Ph.D.).  I will Advanced scientific classes, such as AP chemistry and biology, are recommended.  Joining the debate squad to learn how to speak in public.  Taking part in sports to develop teamwork skills.  Making a science project that creatively incorporates forensic chemistry skills.  To improve fine motor abilities and acquire patience, building the scale models.  Taking law enforcement, criminal justice, or crime scene processing electives.  Considering pursuing a forensic science master's degree. In certain areas, they are becoming increasingly necessary to qualify for jobs.

 Looking for a program that focuses on laboratory scientific research, with courses on ethics, quality assurance physical evidence, crime scenes, and also interaction with real- world forensic labs.  Making it a point to keep learning throughout your career. In most positions, it will be necessary.

Professional Skills Development

To solve crimes, forensic chemists examine physical evidence & samples for clues. This work necessitates adaptability and patience. Forensic chemists spend many hours methodically documenting each step while applying analysis techniques to evidence. They must be able to reply to objections to their conclusions in a clear and succinct manner, even in a criminal court. Because it is fairly uncommon for multiple parties in a lawsuit to try and influence its forensic chemist's conclusions, integrity is a key attribute for a forensic scientist. Because they interact with internal organs and at murder scenes frequently, the ability to stay calm and unaffected is essential. On a typical workday, forensic experts evaluate evidence found at a crime scene or in the bodies of suspects using knowledge from a number of fields, including biochemistry, chemistry, biomedical engineering, and genetics. I am working on my performance mostly as forensic science specialist depends on a range of talents, including:  Oral and written communication  Computer proficiency  Prioritization of tasks  Time management  Good laboratory practices  Critical thinking  Observation and attention to detail  Public speaking  Interpersonal skills  Decision making The nature of the material is often unknown to forensic chemists before they study it. As a result, they employ criminalistics, which involves the qualitative investigation of proof utilizing microscopy & spot testing, as well as analytical toxicology, which employs a number of technologies ranging from optical methods to separations analyses to look for signs in body fluids. Mass spectroscopy is also commonly utilized in court since it delivers the most reliable evidence. Their results are used in current investigations and court cases, and they may be called to testify as an expert testimony and explain their findings to a jury.

Research Interests

As there are a lot of research interest for me, so I am planning to pick one or two simultaneously from these below fields. DNA Phenotyping While DNA from a scene of a crime may be used to identify a suspect by matching specimens, DNA may be used to figure out what a suspect looks like physically. The external appearance of DNA is coded by 23 chromosomes. Forensics experts can sequence a DNA specimen and give police information on the suspect's distinguishing characteristics, such as eye, skin colour and hair. Age and genetic background can also be predicted using newer approaches. Fingerprint Analysis Biosensors Fingerprints, like Genetics, can be analyzed to identify a culprit at a crime scene. On either hand, fingerprints are really not clear or readable. Forensic scientists may now use biosensors to evaluate minute amounts of human fluids included in fingerprints to find a suspect. Data such as age, medicines, gender, and lifestyle may all be recognized. Biosensors can also be used to evaluate other bodily fluids gathered at a crime scene. Immunochromatography Immunochromatography is a technique of disease testing that includes putting a small sample onto a pre-prepared test strip. This method is used in HIV testing as well as pregnancy tests testing. In forensics, immunochromatography tests are used to detect narcotics and medications in a person's bodily fluids. Immunochromatography on a saliva sample has been performed using a mobile phone sensor, eliminating the need for a lab visit. Using isotopic ratios of water to locate a suspect or victims Isotopes are unique from each other and may have their own signature. According to new forensic studies, scientists may determine where a picture came from by distinguishing the isotope inside a distilled water found on a suspect or victim. Isotopes might potentially recreate the subject's itinerary if there are other samples. Other isotope detection technologies can be used to determine the number of people present. Forensic Palynology Forensic palynology for a forensic scientist, is new area of study. Palynology is the analysis of spores, seed, pollens and grains, and which may be utilized in forensics to locate a person. Pollen & spores are very small and can go unnoticed on skin and clothing. Scientists have yet to develop tools to collect, compare, and use these trace elements as evidence. Cloud Forensics with Blockchain-Based Technologies And currently, more than half of all personal and business data is kept on the cloud or on remote servers. Therefore, astute forensic scientists must develop new techniques for gathering, analyzing, and assessing cloud data. This data management poses a variety of security and

privacy concerns. Due to the impossibility of tampering with blockchain technology, digital forensic chemists have begun using it to ensure data integrity and establish a custody chain. Forensics of Digital Vehicles Investigators have traditionally used vehicle forensics to collect tangible evidence such as fluid samples, trace materials and fingerprints such as soil. They can also analyze the vehicle to see how an accident, collision, or terrorist strike happened. However, as automobiles have gotten more technologically advanced, scientists and investigators have been able to obtain data including such recent destinations, regular routes, personal data, and preferred sites through the discipline of digital vehicle forensics. Forensics of Social Networks About 3.6 billion people use social media, a number that is projected to increase to 4.5 billion by

2025. When social media initially became popular, detectives and forensic scientists had less data to work with. The amount of social media information for a particular topic might now be overwhelming. Scientists have recently created methods for assessing information collected from social networks to aid in the evaluation of this data. To be accepted in court, automated data analysis must be based on assumptions that are repeatable, testable and explainable.

Technical Skills Development

As my wish is to forensic chemists which operate in laboratories and are frequently employed by municipal, state, or federal governments. They frequently try to sit for lengthy amounts of time, conduct repetitive jobs, and use advanced technology. They must follow precise processes for handling and documenting evidence, and also scientific standards to verify that tests and equipment are of high quality and dependability. The forensic scientist must be able to manage effectively and work quickly while verifying that the findings are correct, as the demand from law enforcement officers to provide results quickly might be tremendous. Strong communication skills are required while testifying in court, including the ability to remain cool throughout cross- examination and explain complicated scientific techniques in a way that jurors can comprehend.  Strong foundation in equipment and quantitative/qualitative analysis; excellent experimental method  Details are important.  Problem-solving and critical thinking  Even under hardship, excellent oral communicator (for example, providing expert testimony)  Written communication abilities are required to generate reports that will withstand examination. A bachelor degree in forensics or a biological science, including considerable courses in chemistry, biology and mathematics is required for employment in crime laboratories. A master's degree may be necessary for intermediate roles that are lab managers & supervisors). A Ph.D. is required for higher roles (such as lab director) A Ph.D. is necessary for forensic research employment in university institutions. Those who want to deal with trace evidence (glass, hairs,

gunshot residue, etc.) should emphasis on equipment skills and, soil chemistry, materials science and study geology courses. Take, genetics, biochemistry and microbiology classes if you want to pursue forensic biology (e.g., DNA analysis). Biochemistry, Physiology and chemistry should be studied by anyone concerned in the toxicological elements of this job (e.g., acquiring and understanding toxicology reports).

Career Development

I want to be a forensic chemist which operate in government, provincial, or county laboratories that are linked with the office of the medical examiner. However, there are other available occupations, including those in forensic science, academics, and administration. Additionally, chemists might grow within a corporation by assuming new responsibilities. Instead of being engaged in day-to-day analysis, the head of a crime lab may manage other forensic scientists. A director could also be in charge of case review and lab management. Some forensic chemists utilize their scientific knowledge to work in the field of patent law. As my wish is work as a forensic chemist which are employed by police agencies, medical inspector's offices, forensic services laboratories, or FBI sections (FBI). A small number of private labs do forensic analyses. A forensic scientist may advance through an organization's ranks to become the director of a crime lab. Forensic science technicians often get on-the-job training in the following areas:  Learning DNA analysis takes six to twelve months.  For guns analysis, it might take up to three years. Before being able to handle matters on their own, forensic scientists may indeed be required to complete a competence exam. They must keep current on improvements in both evidence collecting and analysis throughout their careers. Jobs in non-laboratory forensics can be found in forensic science, academia, and administration. Preparation for Employment As a Competitive applicant, I can demonstrate their suitability for forensics post by demonstrating their abilities, knowledge and skills (AKS). Statistics, professional norms of conduct, scientific method, inductive reasoning, quality assurance, logical reasoning, evidence control, ethics, report writing, and safety are some of the AKS that may be relevant to all future forensic science practitioners. Documentation of courses and practical experiences incorporating these AKS can considerably improve the objective information provided to a hiring agency. On-the-job work experience In near future, my work experience as the employing agency is going to be frequent after employment. Based on the agency, forensic science and trainee specialty, this first training is usually finished between 6 months to 3 years of hiring. Some specializations have created peer- based objective standards that have been embraced across the field, while others differ from one organization to the next.

Certification My best tries to get my forensic science laboratories must be licensed, whereas analysts and examiners must be certified. Employers value individuals whose skills have been validated by an impartial, peer-based, adequately qualified certifying organization. Outstanding laboratories seek accreditation from a forensic specialty’s accreditation board-accredited organization or similar program based on nationally or globally accepted criteria.