Forensic Scientist

Forensic Scientist

LIsa Black

Cape Coral, FL

Female, 49

I spent the five happiest years of my life in a morgue. As a forensic scientist in the Cleveland coroner’s office I analyzed gunshot residue on hands and clothing, hairs, fibers, paint, glass, DNA, blood and many other forms of trace evidence, as well as crime scenes. Now I'm a certified latent print examiner and CSI for a police department in Florida. I also write a series of forensic suspense novels, turning the day job into fiction. My books have been translated into six languages.

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Last Answer on July 21, 2022

Best Rated

After graduation, what do you advice future forensic scientists to do and expect when getting a job in this field?

Asked by kwony123 about 7 years ago

It’s not easy to get a job in this field—there’s a lot of competition and staffs are not as large as you might think. The best thing you can do, after graduation if not before, is get an internship somewhere to get some practical experience and meet people. It will also help if you’re willing to relocate.

I was accused of rape by a diabolical tenant and her daughter! I actually sprayed w d40 and it backsplashed right in my face! I was blwng my nose, wiping sweat frm my head & spit in tissue. Cld they wipe Tht on them or in them and claim rape?

Asked by Pes over 7 years ago

No, because those fluids would not contain acid phosphatase.

For the Ga Fatality Review Board, why wouldnt a minor child who died a Violent death not be in the Statics for that County?

Asked by Brandy over 7 years ago

I have no idea. You'd have to ask the review board. Since statistics are just numbers, how do you know it's not included?

What are the questions you would ask when you find a fiber?

Asked by Cory over 7 years ago

Well, if it's found on the victim, you might ask if it came from the suspect's clothing/upholstery/etc., and vice versa. Or it could similarly link either party to the crime scene, depending upon the circumstances of the case.

Can a dna test determine whether my husband is an uncle or a half brother

Asked by Donna over 7 years ago

I'm sorry but I don't know. A DNA testing company can probably help you. Best of luck!

Hi my name Is Gemali Monzon and I go to Chehalis Middle School and we are doing a project on the career we want. I want to be a forensic science technician and would like to interview you. You can get back at me at monzongasparg23@chehalisschool.org

Asked by Gemali Monzon over 7 years ago

Sure, I'll email you.

I just tried to email you and it came back undeliverable. You can email me at lisa-black@live.com.

Is there any printed literature or old case dockets I can reference that directly says examiners can distinguish between prints left by bare hands and those wearing gloves, or is this just common knowledge?

Asked by Kayla lions over 7 years ago

The only areas of the body with friction ridges are the palms and fingers of the hand and the soles of the feet. They could not possibly be found on gloves. I don't know if there's a paper that states that...it's kind of like finding research to say that an apple is not an Orange. However if you search 'identifying glove prints ' you could probably find what you need. Best of luck.