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Forensics tools and resources

These resources can help students and the public understand the work of FSSA and our staff.

Podcasts

The Toxpod offers toxicologists and enthusiasts a chance to learn, share knowledge and listen in on the conversations toxicologists love to have.

Listen to the latest episode of The Toxpod

The Tox pod podcast graphic 

Also available on iTunes, Stitcher and Spotify.

Videos

High tech crime fighting

Watch Inside look at high tech crime fighting (video) by 7 News Adelaide, which shows the work at FSSA.

Mathematics helps solve crime

Watch the ANZFSS SA Branch presentation My Teacher said I'd need Maths One Day (video) by Principal Forensic Scientist, Dr Duncan Taylor on how mathematics advances forensic science in the field today.

Future Forensics

Watch Future Forensics: Crime Scene to Court Room (video) at Open State 2017, a panel discussion facilitated by Natasha Mitchell, Australian science journalist and presenter of ABC RN’s Science Friction podcast.

Articles and websites

FSSA expert assists students

Read about Ted Silenieks helping students with Bloodstain Pattern Analysis at the Canberra Institute of Technology.

The coronial process in SA

View information about the Coronial process in the publication When a person dies: The Coronial Process, Information for family and friends (PDF 4.5MB).

Quick links

Other questions

What is the role of the forensic scientist?
The forensic scientist assists the court in making its judgement by describing findings so people who are not experts in that area can understand - eg  judges, lawyers and juries.



Forensic scientists must be independent and open to having their opinions and evidence challenged.
Describe a forensics scientist's dally work routine
Daily work can include:
  •  laboratory activities
  •  writing reports
  •  giving evidence in court

We also present to, teach and supervise research students and validate new laboratory methods.

What study is required to become a forensic scientist?

An appropriate degree in science or equivalent is a prerequisite. 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 and study discipline pages to find out more.

How are jobs at FSSA promoted?
Positions at Forensic Science SA are advertised on I Work for SA and the Graduate Recruitment Register.
Is the work at FSSA really like the CSI television series?
Forensic scientists do not catch criminals. Police submit items to FSSA and we perform the appropriate examinations and provide results to the investigating officer.

Related information

 Read about the awards and research received and conducted by FSSA staff.