Nick Oliver

Forensic Practitioner for LGC Forensics at Culham Laboratory

 How did you end up in this role?

When I left University with a BSc in Human Biology I never imagined becoming a Forensic Scientist! My first Lab job was a temporary contract at LGC Forensics obtaining DNA profiles from mouth swabs of police suspects, and submitting them to the National DNA Database. When my contract ended I went travelling for a year with my future wife and upon my return reapplied to LGC. Fortunately, my old boss remembered me and I was hired!   I soon moved into the casework team working closely with the Police to find evidence to link suspects to crimes. I specialise in examination of biological material (blood, semen and saliva) which includes the analysis of body fluid staining and the interpretation of DNA profiles. Currently in the Homicide and Sexual Offences team I work on larger and more complex cases.

What do you do on a day to do basis?

My average day involves working through my case load and organising the examination of items, also interpreting DNA profiles, discussing case strategy with the Police and writing statements for court. This is interspersed with defence scientists checking my work, attending court to provide my evidence, and case conferences.

It is very difficult to enter the field, mainly due to intense competition. To stand out from the crowd get some experience in a lab and with the Police Scene of Crime Officers and attend relevant workshops aimed at entry level applicants. A degree in a science subject is generally the minimum requirement, but you don't need to specialise at this stage as you will be fully trained. Whilst an MSc in Forensic Science will help it is your personal qualities that will get you the job. Attention to detail, the ability to work under pressure and good communication skills are vital, particularly if you are writing statements and attending court.