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

What is the next step from secondary school in order to become a forensic scientist ?

Asked by Maria almost 8 years ago

Go to college and major in forensic science or one of the natural sciences. Best of luck!

I am a student doing a research report, when can we connect?

Asked by Meshya Ragan over 7 years ago

Email me at: lisa-black@live.com.

Which drug do you think was the most fatal in this report?
Samples are ng/ml
Morphine 220
Tramadol 780
Fentanyl 19

Asked by Cheryl over 7 years ago

As I’m not a toxicologist, I’m afraid I’d have no idea. Sorry!

How long would it take you to analyze evidence?

Asked by Denise_ot5 about 7 years ago

That completely depends on what kind of evidence and what analysis we’re doing.

How long does a body have to be exposed in warm temps before it starts to deteriorate?

Asked by LookingForJustice almost 8 years ago

Bodies begin to deteriorate immediately, but the process might progress more slowly or less slowly depending on temperature, humidity, exposure or any medical conditions of the victim.

I currently work as a Lab Tech in the Military and looking into future careers. I have a huge interest in forensics. The problem is I have a little bit of a criminal history when I was a kid. Will this be an issue when it comes to finding a job?

Asked by Re almost 8 years ago

I doubt it. It depends on how little it was, and if those juvenile records are sealed (they usually are) but if it didn't prevent you from joining the military I'm guessing it wouldn't affect you working in a crime lab.

What is the best way to read the writing imprints left on paper towels or ziplocks without scientific equipment?

Asked by Amyleigh73 about 8 years ago

I would try oblique lighting—try laying the piece down as flat as possible and then hold a flashlight to the side so the light beam travels across the piece instead of down onto it. Adjust the light to where it’s the most helpful. With the ziploc bag you might also put a piece of dark paper inside it to increase the constraint. That’s all I can think of since I’m not an expert in questioned documents. Best of luck!