Career Journal

Career Title: Forensic DNA Analyst

Education and/or Training Required:

 A bachelor's degree in molecular biology genetics, forensic sciences, or related field in order
 You must have knowledge of laboratory procedures and equipment; strong verbal and written
communication skills
 Boston University, Syracuse University, and the University of California all offer forensic science
degrees
 The average tuition cost for Boston University is $51,736, Syracuse University tuition is $61,242,
and the University of California is $28,014

Responsibilities and Daily Activities:

 Analyze DNA left at crime scenes

 Match DNA to possible suspects is a criminal investigation
 Testify in court if called upon
 They must document every step of their procedure
 Check pieces of lab equipment for damage
 Retest samples to show matches in DNA

Career Outlooks and Earning Potential:

 The BLS expects this position to grow by 27%

 The median earning potential is $60,090 and the highest potential is $82,990

Documentation of Sources:

Study.com. (2017). DNA Analyst: Job Description, Duties and Requirements. Retrieved from
https://study.com/articles/DNA_Analyst_Job_Description_Duties_and_Requirements.html
Crime Scene Investigators. (2018). Forensic DNA Analyst Jobs, Education Requirements and Salary
Expectations. Retrieved from https://www.crimesceneinvestigatoredu.org/forensic-dna-analyst/
Self-Reflection:
This job seems interesting to do except for the meticulous documenting and cleaning of equipment. It
would be fun to analyze DNA and help with criminal cases. Doing this job could help find murderers and
bad people.