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Working in forensic science

Helpful information for students and people interested in forensic science.

A forensic scientist helps the court make its judgement by explaining their findings so people who are not experts in that area can understand it. They must be independent and open to having their opinions and evidence challenged.

Our daily work

Everyday work tasks can include:

  • laboratory activities
  • writing reports
  • giving evidence in court
  • teaching and supervising research students
  • validating new laboratory methods.

Forensic scientists do not catch criminals. Instead, police submit items to us to perform examinations and provide results to the investigating officer.

Our vacancies are advertised on the IWorkForSA website.

Qualifications
A forensic scientist has an appropriate degree in science or equivalent. Higher degrees such as honours, masters or a doctorate can also help you gain employment.

You can also work as a forensic officer if you have a diploma in a relevant technical discipline.

Visit your local universities' career section to find out more.

Work placements
Tertiary students can complete their work placements with Forensic Science SA. These placements are for:
  • registrars studying anatomical pathology
  • 4th and 5th year medical students studying pathology at the University of Adelaide
  • students studying a degree which requires a placement.

We routinely place students studying:

  • Bachelor of Science
  • Bachelor of Medical Science
  • Bachelor of Computer Science
  • Bachelor of Business.

How to apply

Students should contact their university for information about placements.

We do not take students looking for work experience.

Fellowships
Australian organisations can apply to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) for an Australia Fellowship.

Email: forensicadministration [at] sa.gov.au (subject: Enquiry%20about%20fellowship%20with%20FSSA)

Exchanges

We encourage exchanges with other forensic agencies.

To learn more, watch Australian Awards Scholarships - Bhutan Forensics (video)

Interviews for school projects

We usually aren't able to participate in interviews for school projects as we receive a large number of requests from students.