Increasing Crime in India & Career Opportunities in Forensic Science

Forensic Science degree is relatively new discipline which is developing fast with the support of latest developments on technology front. Its application is in both criminal and civil cases but predominantly in criminal cases. But the reports provided by forensic experts in many criminal cases are not fully accepted by judiciary as it has not proved correct always beyond doubt. Various theories are put forth by experts with different perspective hence there is huge scope for standardizing the practices. An under graduate programs helps students to understand the process of collecting, preserving, analyzing the materials or information obtained, which assists in investigation. Career in forensic science is very challenging and following are some are the popular job titles:

• Bloodstain Pattern Analyst
• Polygraph Examiner
• Forensic Ballistics Expert
• Forensic DNA Analyst
• Forensic Documents Examiner
• Digital Forensics Experts and Forensic Computer Investigators
• Forensic Science Technician
• Forensic Toxicologist
• Forensic Pathologist
• Forensic Accountant
• Forensic Anthropologist
• Forensic Odontologist
• Forensic Psychologist

The above mentioned job titles indicates that apart from basic knowledge about forensic sciences, one need to specialize and be proficient in any of the specialization to move further in career and contribute to the field.

As of now we have the following public sector organizations in India

1. Directorate of Forensic Science Services
2. Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Narayan National Institute of Criminology & Forensic Science
3. Forensic Science Laboratory

Apart from the organizations mentioned above, each state in Indian will have a Forensic Science Laboratory to support the State Police Department. There is demand to faculty members also in many state and private universities across India as many institutions have started courses related to forensic as the demand is increasing from different sectors. As the crime rate is increasing with so many terrorist activities across the globe, demand for skilled and trained forensic experts have increased. Forensic science technicians may have to work outside in all types of weather, spend many hours in laboratories and offices, or do some combination of both. They often work in groups or teams with specialists and other law enforcement personnel. Many specialist forensic science technicians work only in laboratories. As this profession needs dedication students’ needs who are passionate and focused will make a good career.