Are there any forensic scientists here?

Question

I'm very interested in the field of forensics. I want to know more about what exactly they do. I could research it on the web, but I want real and true answers, not glorified statements about the career. Is it generally a good job? How about the pay and benefits? Is there opportunities for promotion? Do you ever have to go to court and testify, or is that just for managers, etc? Is it a M-F day job, or are the labs run 24-7? Any info that someone could share with me would be appreciated. Thanks

Answer 1

Forensic science is a very tough field to crack because the pre-requisite education is extremely difficult. You need to do well enough in high school in science and human biology related subjects, and also math, to make the requirement for tertiary study which is, in itself, very challenging. Competition for places also means that the required grades are very high.
But to answer your query about day to day duties, you must remember that life rarely mirrors what we see on tv and at the movies in terms of intrigue and drama. This is not to say that the work can't be constantly challenging and satisfying.
In terms of remuneration, as in any field that is so highly skilled and specialised, ie: medicine or law, the financial rewards are better than the average.
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I just re-read what I wrote and wanted to add that I didn't mean to sound discouraging. Always remember that there is no age requirement for tertiary study. So if your grades are not adequate the first time around, there is absolutely nothing preventing you from repeating the twelfth grade as a mature age candidate. Part-time or full-time and at ANY age.
With dedication you can do it!

Answer 2

matching fingerprintss, etc.