Forensic Scientist SAKI (Sexual Assault Kit Initiative) DNA Analyst

Duties:

This position will be responsible for the following:

• Producing formal reports that accurately identify and analyze biological matter and/or DNA evidence to determine their significance to the investigation
• Presenting the results, conclusions and expert opinion in the scientific analysis of the biological matter/ DNA
• Providing expert witness testimony regarding their findings in courts of law throughout the State of New Mexico
• Performing QA/ QC to assure quality analysis, evidence integrity, and maintain accreditation standards
• Continue training to develop competency and proficiency in their area of specialization, specifically biological matter/ DNA analysis for this position, as required

Requirements:

The Ideal Candidate will have the following skills, knowledge and abilities:

• The ability to determine the identity of an unknown substance
• The ability to conduct tests to quantitate and analyze biological matter and/or DNA
• The ability to extract, analyze and compare unknown DNA evidence item to reference samples
• The ability to provide testimony in a court of law
• The ability to write laboratory reports

Minimum Qualification

• For DNA Analysts, a Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Chemistry, Forensic Science, Biochemistry, Genetics or Molecular biology from an accredited college or university and completion of nine (9) credit hours of coursework in any combination of biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, to include any course work in statistics or population genetics. Four (4) years of experience working in a forensics laboratory performing scientific analysis of forensic evidence, including one (1) year independent case work analysis.

Employment Requirements

• This position is designated as safety sensitive. Employment is subject to post-employment drug testing and random employment drug testing and is conditional pending results.
• In addition, this position is subject to a national fingerprint-based record check within 30 days of assignment.
• Continued employment is contingent upon remaining felony-free, per Section 5.12.1.1 of the Criminal Justice Information Systems Security Policy.
• In addition, the selected candidate must possess and maintain a valid driver's license, and a current Defensive Driving Certificate from the State of New Mexico; or pass and receive the Defensive Driving Course Certification, within six (6) months of date of hire.
• Statewide travel in a car and/or a small aircraft will be required, when necessary.

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