Forensic Science Basics

When you hear the term forensic science lab you probably think of one of the many crime scene investigation shows that are on television today. Even when you see these forensic science labs on television you see that they are full of items that help the scientists who work their to do their jobs. There are some basic items that you will find in a forensic science lab that makes forensic science easier and in some cases, possible.

Equipment You’ll Find in Forensic Labs

The equipment in forensic science labs is always changing due to standards that are always raising due to new and exciting technology. Most forensic science labs have a trace evidence unit where they will have many different high powered microscopes that will allow them to enhance evidence such as hair, fabric, fibers, dust, and even skeletal remains. High powered microscopes are used along with slides and sometimes even chemicals that can enhance an item to allow the scientist to see it better.

Chemistry is a standard part of the job for a forensic scientist so chemistry sets are usually found in a lab. Chemistry sets are used to test samples that come into the lab such as blood and urine, drugs, and even toxins.

Chemistry is also used to identify and test medications, dyes, stains, and more. Some of the particular items related to chemistry that you may find in a lab include gas chromatographs and mass spectrometers. In addition, fume cupboards may be used in forensic labs.

Serology is an important part of forensic science labs so it is common place to see a variety of machines in the lab that will allow for the scientists to identify and analyze blood and other bodily fluids. These machines can also help with DNA sequencing, which is often done by polymerase chain reaction capable machines. Polymerase chain reaction can be done in most small laboratories but bigger laboratories will also be able to supply the machines and tools necessary to analyze mitochondrial DNA.

Many forensic science labs have firearm test units, as well. These are basically big tubs that are set up that can be safely fired into. This will allow a specialist to take the shell casing of the bullet as well as the bullet and compare it to evidence via a microscope.

Firearm related forensics has come a long way in the last few years and many of the forensic labs are very excited about these advancements.

Computers, audio and visual equipment, and more electronic equipment is found in forensic labs. These can be used for a variety of reasons and are made available to the scientists as they often call of them for many different forensic investigations.

Accredited Labs in the United States

There are many, many accredited labs in the United States. Most of the labs that are considered reputable are accredited by the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors. When you visit the website you can see the list of all of the labs, which are listed by state to make finding labs very simple.

Most major cities have at least one accredited lab, usually associated with the police department or an area university. For instance, in Nevada one of the two accredited labs is the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Forensic Laboratory or in Nebraska there is the University of Nebraska Human DNA Identification Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory. There are a handful of accredited labs in most states.