RTI InternationalAny RTI Office, North Carolina, United States
11 days ago
Salary
$74,000.00–$91,000.00 yearly
Job type
Full-time
Job description
Overview
RTI is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Research Forensic Scientist specializing in DNA Analysis. This role is responsible for reviewing complex technical DNA records and reports, evaluating case-specific forensic genetic needs, and advising on advanced DNA technologies to enhance case outcomes.
Coordinates and oversees forensic science research and / or operational projects. Performs research tasks and / or manages operational projects of moderate technical complexity, applying standard and established theories, concepts, and techniques.
Responsibilities
Review and assess technical DNA records, reports and case files for accuracy, compliance, and relevance to case objectives or specified criteria.
Evaluate cases to identify the appropriate DNA technologies, such as STR, Y-STR, or mitochondrial DNA, and recommend advanced DNA solutions to maximize the likelihood of identification or case closure.
Provide expert consultation and technical support to law enforcement and other forensic stakeholders, offering guidance on DNA testing protocols and interpretations.
Collaborate with multidisciplinary forensic teams to support comprehensive case review, planning, and resolution, sharing specialized DNA insights that inform strategic decision-making.
Participate in research and development initiatives to improve DNA testing methodologies, quality assurance practices, and case processing techniques in alignment with organizational goals and forensic standards.
Improves procedures and methods in forensic sciences.
Performs research and provides expertise in forensic sciences.
Applies and interpret standard theories, concepts and techniques; applies working knowledge of related disciplines / methodologies.
Works on a wide range of problems requiring the use of creative and imaginative thinking.
Performs research tasks, applying standard and established methods and techniques, while occasionally employing innovative approaches.
Anticipates problems before they arise, assesses potential risk, and develops contingency plans.
Investigates problems, performs root cause analysis, and develops and implements corrective actions.
Assist with the preparing budgets, defining costing plans, and monitoring project costs.
Prepares tables and develops text for project memos and reports.
Assists in writing proposal sections. Sections are of moderate technical complexity.
Prepares chapters of project reports or entire project reports.
Assists in designing / developing methods of data collection.
Assists in managing projects of moderate technical complexity.
Contributes technically to research papers developed by higher salary grade staff.
Performs work with minimal supervision / guidance from project leaders or program managers.
Contributes to scientific stature activities by participating in RTI internal presentations / seminars and presenting work / papers at conferences.
Makes sound decisions by weighing facts, past practice and theory, and advice from peers and supervisors.
Works without deviating from planned scope or schedule without consulting supervisor or client.
Works with program managers on project staffing needs and project workload issues.
Contributes to business development by identifying new ways to enhance or expand existing tasks / projects and present research ideas / white papers in a clear, concise, and well-organized format.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications :
Bachelor's Degree in related field and 5 years of relevant experience or a Master's Degree in related field and 3 years of relevant experience (Degree in Forensic Science, Biology, Chemistry, Genetics, or a closely related field is required)
Completion of FBI CODIS training or a certification program related to CODIS and database administration may be required or highly advantageous.
Completion of FBI DNA QAS training required.
Experience working in a forensic DNA laboratory, with a focus on STR and mtDNA analysis for criminal casework and / or missing and unidentified persons casework, and understanding of DNA profiles for law enforcement applications.
Experience working with the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) or in similar DNA database programs, including familiarity with FBI guidelines, policies, and database security requirements.
Experience conducting DNA data entry, quality control, and troubleshooting in a forensic setting.
Experience conducting technical review of DNA case records.
Strong knowledge of forensic laboratory accreditation requirements, such as ISO / IEC 17025, and experience in quality assurance practices to ensure compliance with national CODIS standards.
Successful candidates must meet federal requirements to obtain moderate security or public trust security clearance from Office of Justice Programs.
Preferred Qualifications :
Proficiency in DNA analysis software including STRmix, database management, and laboratory information management systems (LIMS) is highly preferred.
Experience in DNA technical assessments or audits preferred.
A Master’s degree in one of these fields or in Criminal Justice or Forensic DNA Analysis is highly preferred