General FAQs
Q: What is forensic science?
A: It is the use of any kind of science to help identify or analyse evidence for use in courts of law.
Q: What qualifications do I need to become a forensic scientist?
A: A good honours degree in a science subject is required to become a court going forensic scientist, followed by 2 years on the job training. There are also many other positions within our organisation. For more information click here.
Q: How can I train to become a forensic scientist?
A: You need to be a scientist first and then have specialist training. This is best done while in a forensic science job, although there are educational courses that may help. Starting as a science technician or assistant scientist is generally a reliable way to begin a career.
Q: Are you part of the Police Force?
A: No. Prior to April 2007 the eight Scottish police forces had their own scene examiners and there were 4 labs and 4 fingerprint bureaux which served the eight police forces. In April 2007 the Scottish Police Services Authority (SPSA) came into being. Part of the remit of the new Authority was the development and provision of a Scottish national forensic service pulling together our existing forensic, laboratory, scene examination and fingerprint capability. Under the leadership of a new Director of Forensic Services the SPSA is now responsible for a fully integrated process from crime scene to court.
Q: Do you allow filming in your laboratories?
A: Occasionally, for specific projects or for illustration of current news events, permission will be granted to film within the laboratories albeit under very controlled conditions due to the nature of the environment and the analysis being carried out. All requests for filming must be directed through the Media Office within SPSA Corporate Services.
Q: Do you have to be a police officer to become a forensic scientist?
A: No you need a science background to become a Forensic Scientist.
Q: Do you see lots of dead bodies?
A: This depends where you work and what your role is. Scene Examiners are more likely to see more than most although forensic scientists also have to attend serious crime scenes.
Q:Do you work for both the prosecution and defence?
A: In Scotland the vast majority of results of our work is presented by the prosecution, with the material supplied for examination coming from the police. Occasionally, other examinations are requested which come from the defence.