Forensic scientists interpret evidence, identify suspects using DNA and trace blood components, perform drug analyses and toxicological studies, prepare courtroom evidence, and otherwise help to confirm the guilt or innocence of a person charged with a crime. Forensic science is an area in which science is applied to the law.
Employment opportunities exist in crime labs in all levels
of government, and medical examiners' offices, as well as in private
labs. The major federal crime labs include the FBI, (DEA) Drug
Enforcement Agency, (ATF) Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, US Postal
Inspection, OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration)
and the EPA (Environmental Protection
Agency).