Forensic Scientist - Biology

Would you like to apply your advanced scientific skills and knowledge in support of public safety and Ontario's justice system? Are you driven by a continuous desire to learn and to advance your scientific discipline? Are you a superior communicator, verbally and in writing, and a critical thinker, able to distill large amounts of complex data into clear, objective and succinct findings and opinions understandable to lay people? Are you a self-assured, positive, resilient individual who is at ease in a rapidly and continually evolving scientific environment? If so, consider joining the Centre of Forensic Sciences (CFS) Biology Section as a senior Forensic Scientist to liaise with investigators and legal practitioners, to oversee forensic scientific testing and examinations, to interpret complex scientific data, to issue test reports and opinions, and to testify as an expert in courts of law and other tribunals.

The Centre of Forensic Sciences provides forensic testing services for criminal and non-criminal investigations in the province of Ontario. It operates independently of, but in partnership with, police, prosecutors and other stakeholders to produce objective, unbiased test results and opinions of importance to the justice system.



*** Note: A voluntary, online information session will be conducted on Thursday October 3, 2024, from 12:30 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. EST to share information about these opportunities and the role. This is voluntary and will not impact the screening process. You are encouraged to attend if you are interested - if so, please RSVP via email to Ivon.DaSilva@ontario.ca with subject line: Sign up for Scientist 4 Information Session (219476). ***

OPS Commitment to Diversity, Inclusion, Accessibility, and Anti-Racism:

We are committed to build a workforce that reflects the communities we serve and to promote a diverse, anti-racist, inclusive, accessible, merit-based, respectful and equitable workplace.

We invite all interested individuals to apply and encourage applications from people with disabilities, Indigenous, Black, and racialized individuals, as well as people from a diversity of ethnic and cultural origins, sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions.

Visit the OPS Anti-Racism Policy and the OPS Diversity and Inclusion Blueprint pages to learn more about the OPS commitment to advance racial equity, accessibility, diversity, and inclusion in the public service.

We offer employment accommodation across the recruitment process and all aspects of employment consistent with the requirements of Ontario's Human Rights Code. Refer to the "How to apply" section if you require a disability-related accommodation.

What can I expect to do in this role?

You will:
• Direct the examination of items for the presence of blood, other body fluids and DNA deposits
• Interpret the results of body fluid tests and DNA tests
• Prepare written test reports
• Research, formulate, write, and clearly convey expert opinions and defend these in an adversarial justice system
• Travel throughout Ontario to present complex scientific information as an expert witness in court
• Participate in client education
• Mentor and educate junior staff
• Lead and/or participate in research and developmental projects

Note:
• The results of this competition may be used to fill upcoming permanent or temporary vacancies within 14 months of the conclusion of this recruitment.
• This role involves regular exposure to accounts and physical evidence of violent crimes and may not be suitable for all people.

How do I qualify?

Mandatory

• Honours B.A./B. Sc with emphasis in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics or equivalent

**Important Application Instructions**

A critical thinker is one who analyses available facts, evidence, observations, and arguments to form reasoned judgements, decisions or opinions.

In five sentences or less, please tell us why critical thinking is an essential competency for a forensic scientist.
Include your response with your application and submit as one document (i.e., along with your cover letter and resume).

Technical Knowledge

• You have work experience and knowledge of scientific theories, methods, techniques, and advances in forensic sciences and other specialized disciplines such as biology, biochemistry, and genetics
• You have comprehensive knowledge of forensic biology to direct a wide variety of serological examinations and DNA profiling of body substances by the use and application of relevant analytical instrumentation and procedures
• You are proficient with computer software programs for word processing, databases, and laboratory information management

Communication (Oral and Written) and Presentation Skills

• You can clearly, accurately, and concisely present complex scientific information to both lay and professional audiences
• You can prepare scientific papers in the field of forensic biology and related areas of expertise
• You are able to present forensic evidence in court as an expert witness, within the adversarial justice system

Leadership and Teamwork Skills

• You can provide expertise, advice and assistance related to testing and examination approaches
• You can effectively manage priorities, evaluate and direct the work required of a forensic biology examination, given the framework of circumstances, in any given case
• You possess the interpersonal skills required to effectively communicate with clients and build and maintain positive working relationships with diverse colleagues, both in a team environment and on an individual basis

Other Essential Qualifications

• You have knowledge of Quality Assurance programs and requirements to ensure delivery of a quality forensic biology service, whereby conclusions are reliable and scientifically sound
• You are able to maintain compliance with established laboratory accreditation standards, policies, methods, operating procedures, and quality assurance programs
• You can lead and carry out applied research projects effectively and independently