DNA Examiner


Typical Day:

Working in a fully operational forensic laboratory. Receiving evidence, examining evidence, processing evidence, analyzing results and documenting findings.

Tasks:

• Receive and account for boxes of evidence and related materials from contributors.
• Visually inspect and process evidence and related materials for mitochondrial and / or nuclear DNA as appropriate; isolate and collect materials for analysis from appropriate areas of various evidentiary materials; prepare samples for instrumental analysis; and associate samples with other existing submissions (as appropriate).
• Make an initial determination of the types of samples suitable for analysis and select appropriate protocols for conducting the examination of materials.
• Conduct DNA examinations on items of evidence.
• Calibrate instruments used for forensic examinations and analysis.
• Maintain proper chain-of-custody of all forensic material under examination
• Follow all QA/QC procedures, protocols and adhere to policies and procedures related to its accreditation and safety standards.
• Conduct DNA analysis and comparisons of profiles or sequences as appropriate.
• Author forensic reports to include all laboratory notes and supporting documentation.
• Provide all generated profiles or sequences in a format necessary for inclusion, storage, and searching of the appropriate DNA databases.
• Conduct technical and administrative reviews of all work.

Required Qualifications:

• Education:
• B.A. in Biology, Chemistry, or related field of biological science from an accredited university/college.
• lly completed coursework in the following subject areas: nine (9) semester hours in the fields of biochemistry, genetics, and molecular biology as well as coursework and/or training in statistics and/or population genetics as it applies to forensic DNAanalysis.

Experience:

• At least one (1) year as a DNA Examiner in an accredited forensic laboratory.

Skills: Basic computer skills, to include use of Microsoft Office programs (Word, Excel, Access, and Outlook); organization skills; flexibility and adaptability to changing priorities; demonstrated ability to study and pass training, examination, and testing assessments; verbal and written communication skills

Clearance: Ability to obtain US Top Secret Clearance (US citizenship required)


Shift: Normal day shift

Location: Quantico, VA