Wildlife Forensics
Wildlife Forensics is like CSI but for animals - it's the science of investigating crimes against wildlife. People in this field use scientific methods to help solve cases involving poaching, illegal wildlife trade, and other crimes against animals. They collect and analyze evidence like animal DNA, remains, or products to determine what happened to an animal, which species it was, and sometimes even where it came from. This helps law enforcement catch people who break wildlife protection laws. You might see this called "Wildlife Crime Scene Investigation" or "Conservation Forensics" in job descriptions.
Examples in Resumes
Led Wildlife Forensics investigations resulting in successful prosecution of 12 poaching cases
Conducted DNA analysis in Wildlife Forensics laboratory to identify endangered species products
Trained field officers in Wildlife Forensics and Conservation Forensics evidence collection techniques
Typical job title: "Wildlife Forensic Scientists"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Wildlife Forensic Scientists
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you set up a new wildlife forensics laboratory from scratch?
Expected Answer: Should discuss equipment needs, safety protocols, evidence handling procedures, documentation systems, and how to establish relationships with law enforcement agencies. Should mention quality control and accreditation requirements.
Q: How do you keep up with new developments in wildlife forensics techniques?
Expected Answer: Should mention professional conferences, scientific journals, training workshops, and networking with other labs. Should discuss implementing new methods and validating them for court use.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What steps do you take to ensure evidence integrity in wildlife crime cases?
Expected Answer: Should explain chain of custody procedures, proper evidence storage, documentation methods, and working with law enforcement. Should mention importance of court-admissible procedures.
Q: Describe how you would determine if an animal product comes from an endangered species.
Expected Answer: Should discuss various testing methods like DNA analysis, microscopy, or chemical testing, explaining when each method is most appropriate and how to document findings.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What basic equipment is used in wildlife forensics?
Expected Answer: Should be able to name and describe common laboratory equipment, basic testing procedures, and safety protocols used in wildlife forensics work.
Q: How do you document a wildlife crime scene?
Expected Answer: Should explain basic crime scene photography, note-taking, evidence collection, and packaging procedures. Should understand importance of maintaining evidence integrity.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic evidence collection and handling
- Laboratory safety procedures
- Simple species identification
- Crime scene documentation
Mid (2-5 years)
- DNA analysis techniques
- Court testimony experience
- Complex evidence analysis
- Case report writing
Senior (5+ years)
- Laboratory management
- Advanced analytical techniques
- Training and supervision
- Expert witness testimony
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of evidence handling procedures
- Lack of laboratory safety knowledge
- Poor documentation habits
- No experience with scientific equipment
- Unfamiliarity with wildlife protection laws
Related Terms
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