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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989 Questions

Last Answer on July 21, 2022

What is the regular intern day/night shift?

Asked by Crime Scene Investigator almost 7 years ago

We don't have a set schedule for interns. They'll come in on weekdays, but other than that we work with their school/work schedule.

615 Votes

Can a body be in water and not have rigamortis?

Asked by Amanda Marsh about 7 years ago

As far as I know, water doesn’t change the process of rigor mortis. The temperature of the water may speed it up or slow it down, but the process would still occur.

614 Votes

So you wanna be a Forensic Scientist?

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What does forensic science mean to you?

Asked by Caroline over 6 years ago

For homework interview questions, please email me at lisa-black@live.com.

614 Votes

I'm going to be graduating high school in a few months and I'm looking to do forensic science, mostly leaning towards biology and examining. I want to know if going to a FEPAC school really matters.

Asked by Morgan over 7 years ago

I'm sorry but I don't know what a FEPAC school is.

614 Votes

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Do you worry about the corona virus?

Asked by Jamie about 6 years ago

So far it hasn’t come up in my work, and we have lots of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment).

614 Votes

What is your least favorite part of your job?

Asked by Hily about 7 years ago

Being on call and having to leave dinner or get up in the middle of the night to go to a crime scene. And having to schedule vacations and events around whether I can get someone else to cover my call for me.

613 Votes

what would i need to study to become a forensic pathologist?

Asked by esthers33741212 about 7 years ago

Medicine. Forensic pathologists are doctors and go to medical school. So I would suggest you take every science course you can, especially biological sciences. Best of luck to you!

613 Votes