Title: Forensic Scientist - Forensic Biology - Division of Technical Services - CF217 (Agency Only)

State Role Title: Forensic Scientist II

Hiring Range: Commensurate with Experience

Pay Band: 5

Agency: Department of Forensic Science

Agency Website: https://dfs.virginia.gov/

Recruitment Type: Agency Employee Only - A

Job Duties

This opportunity is available exclusively to current employees of the Virginia Department of Forensic Science.

The Virginia Department of Forensic Science’s Division of Technical Services is seeking a qualified Scientist to conduct research and to assist the Forensic Molecular Biologist with the development, validation, and implementation of new methodologies within the Forensic Biology discipline. This role also supports staff training on current and newly developed or updated procedures and techniques.

Key Responsibilities include: Conducting research; conducting method development and validation experiments on human biological fluid and tissue samples using DNA techniques; compiling data in an organized manner, preparing validation study reports, and maintaining detailed records of all research and validation work performed; providing training to staff as needed on both current and newly implemented or modified technologies; working both independently and in collaboration with the Forensic Molecular Biologist and assisting with training for students and part‑time researchers when assigned; independently performing comprehensive scientific analyses on a wide range of evidence submitted by law enforcement agencies while using state‑of‑the‑art methodologies, techniques, and instrumentation; interpreting analytical results, preparing reports of findings for use by the criminal justice system, preparing court exhibits, and testifying in court as an expert witness.

Casework analysis will be required, as well as maintaining qualifications on current technologies through proficiency testing. Occasional overnight travel will be required, and the employee will be responsible for providing their own transportation as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s (or its equivalent) or an advanced degree in a biology, chemistry, or forensic science related area
• College courses (graduate or undergraduate level) totaling at least nine credit hours of coursework in biology or chemistry related areas that provide an understanding of the foundation of DNA analysis as well as coursework covering statistics and/or population genetics
• Forensic human DNA laboratory experience commensurate with authorized responsibilities
• Successful completion of a documented training program from an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited private, local, state, or federal forensic science laboratory in forensic DNA PCR-based STR analysis on casework using the capillary electrophoresis (CE) platform
• Experience as a qualified DNA casework analyst in an accredited forensic laboratory conducting DNA isolations, PCR STR analysis using the CE platform, interpreting data, drawing conclusions, and calculating statistics on casework evidence including the preparation of case-specific reports containing self-generated results and conclusions
• Forensic laboratory casework experience performing body fluid identification/detection testing, case approach decision making, and sample selection for DNA analysis
• Knowledge of laboratory safety and QA/QC procedures
• Knowledge, skills, and ability to testify in court through experience and/or training
• Ability to distinguish colors, maintain accurate records, analyze and interpret data, manage multiple tasks efficiently, establish work priorities, and develop sound conclusions from analyses
• Valid driver’s license and/or other means of reliable transportation

Additional Considerations

• Experience conducting independent research
• Experience as an expert witness providing courtroom testimony and preparing and presenting exhibits of evidence, both verbally and in writing in a clear and concise manner
• Experience with CODIS software related to entry of DNA casework profiles and searching/ evaluating casework candidate matches
• Experience teaching forensic related courses or conducting forensic training
• Experience conducting forensic Y-STR analysis
• Experience with STRmix™, or other probabilistic genotyping software, related to the deconvolution of DNA mixture profiles and calculation of likelihood ratios
• Certification by a nationally recognized body

Special Instructions

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to “Your Application” in your account to check the status of your application for this position.

All applications must be submitted electronically through this website by 11:55 p.m. on the position’s closing date. Mailed, emailed, faxed, or hand‑delivered applications and résumés will not be accepted. Interview consideration is based solely on the information provided in the application, résumé, and any required transcripts (if applicable).

Applicants who need accommodations during the application and/or interview process may contact the Human Resource Office at 804-786-0150 or dfshumanresource@dfs.virginia.gov. Auxiliary Aids and services are available upon request for individuals with disabilities.

The Department of Forensic Science (DFS) is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a V3 Virginia Values Veterans certified organization. We strictly prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, political affiliation, genetics, or disability in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce. We welcome and encourage applications from Veterans, AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and other national service alumni.

DFS does not provide sponsorship or STEM OPT extensions. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire and must maintain such authorization for the duration of their employment without the need for employer sponsorship or a STEM extension.

Probationary Period: If you are a current Commonwealth of Virginia employee, this position may require a new probationary period be served.

Background Investigation: Reference checks will be conducted to include contact with current supervisor.

Contact Information

Name: Amanda Collum

Phone: 804-588-4010

Email: amanda.collum@dfs.virginia.gov

In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.

Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.