About Us - Values Overview

Department Summary

The Center for Human Identification (CHI) is an accredited forensic laboratory located on the campus of UNT Health at Fort Worth. With funding from the state of Texas and various Federal Government agencies, CHI supports DNA testing, forensic genetic genealogy, anthropological examinations, CODIS operations, forensic training, and cutting-edge research and development initiatives. CHI also manages the Texas Missing Persons DNA Database.

Position Overview

Responsibilities include conducting forensic DNA analysis on samples submitted to CHI for criminal and missing persons investigations to help establish the identity of the individual, maintaining accurate testing and quality control records, and providing legal testimony regarding the methods used and results obtained in the conducted forensic examinations.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, or any discipline related to forensic science; and completed coursework in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, and statistics from an accredited university or program approved by the Texas Forensic Science Commission.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Good communication skills
• Works effectively and cooperatively with others
• Uses critical thinking and logic to solve problems
• Adjusts to changing priorities

Required License/Registration/Certifications

Applicant must be able to apply for and obtain a Forensic Analyst license from the Texas Forensic Science Commission (TFSC) before beginning any casework duties.

Job Duties

• Conduct evidence examination and laboratory tests following all Quality Assurance Manual policies and Procedure Manual guidelines.
• Perform autosomal STR, Y-STR, and mitochondrial DNA data analysis, interpretation, genetic comparisons, and report generation. 
• Technical and administrative review of casework. 
• Provide expert witness testimony as required. 
• Maintain proficiency in autosomal STR, Y-STR, and mitochondrial DNA analysis procedures and data analysis.
• Complete the required hours of continuing education and review current scientific literature. 
• Participation in various validation and laboratory projects as needed. 

Physical Requirements

• Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands and/or fingers.
• Sedentary work that primarily involves sitting/standing.
• Operating machinery and/or power tools.
• Communicating with others to exchange information.

Environmental Hazards

• Work with toxic or caustic chemicals.
• Noisy environments.
• Exposure to fumes or airborne particles.
• Exposure to moving mechanical parts or vibration.

Work Schedule

M-F, 8:00a-5:00p, with possibility of a flex-schedule

Driving University Vehicle

No

Security Sensitive

This is a Security Sensitive Position.

Special Instructions

Applicants must submit a minimum of two professional references as part of their application. If needed, additional references can be added after the application has been submitted. Candidates are required to provide their transcript(s) with application.

Employment at the Center for Human Identification is contingent upon your agreement to provide a DNA sample for purposes of quality control to detect sample contamination.

Benefits

For information regarding our Benefits, click here.

EEO Statement

The University of North Texas System is firmly committed to equal opportunity and does not permit –and takes actions to prevent – discrimination, harassment (including sexual violence, domestic violence, dating violence and stalking), and retaliation on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its application, employment practices, and facilities; nor permits race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability, veteran status, or sex discrimination and harassment in its admissions processes, and educational programs and activities. UNT System Administration promptly investigates complaints of discrimination, harassment, and related retaliation and takes remedial action when appropriate. System Administration also takes actions to prevent retaliation against individuals who oppose any form of harassment or discriminatory practice, file a charge or report, or testify, assist, or participate in a related investigation or proceeding.