DNA Analyst Mystery Incorporated

Kaleigh Rubino, Stephanie Penhale, and Brooke Dooley

Job Description

• Responsible for analyzing evidence that can link suspects with specific crime scenes

• Focus on identifying DNA samples (blood, hair follicles, and body fluids)

• Works with law enforcement entities

Employment Opportunities and Trends

• The job outlook for growth is expected to be 19% in through 2020

• DNA analysts are becoming increasingly effective and efficient

• Useful if expanded to property crimes (theft and burglary)

Annual Wages

• Usually $30,401- $62,214• Median $46,114

Working Conditions

• Work in privately owned forensic laboratories or police station crime labs

• Work in laboratory preparing and testing samples

Educational Requirements

• Undergraduate degree: minimum requirement of a bachelor’s degree related to molecular biology, genetics, or forensic sciences

• Graduate degree: a master of science in forensic science, molecular biology, human and molecular genetics, biomedical sciences, etc.

• Mandatory laboratory hours so students can familiarize themselves with equipment and laboratory procedures

• Master’s degree or doctorate necessary

Case Summary

• Cold Case of Murdered 5-Year-Old Alie Berrelez • In 1993 Alie Berrelez was murdered by Nick

Stofer, however her killer was not convicted due to not enough evidence

• In 2011, DNA analysts were able to analyze the small samples that they had found and came to the conclusion that it was indeed Stofer who had murdered the 5 year old Alie Berrelez

Related Occupations

• Forensic Scientist - forensic investigations that relate in some way to legal matters (criminal proceedings

• Research and development –includes basic research, research applications, and the development of new products, processes, or technologies. Ex: Biotechnology – advancements in DNA testing innovations

Resources

• http://abcnews.go.com• http://education-portal.com• http://www.crimesceneinvestigatoredu.org• http://criminologycareers.about.com