What is your current role and what are your responsibilities?  

I am currently a DNA Analyst for Key Forensic Services. DNA is one of the most popular pieces of evidence recovered at crime scenes by Forensic Specialists to discover the nature of a crime. My main responsibilities include working alongside various police forces to provide DNA profiling of individuals from traces of body fluid, hairs or skin cells left at crime scenes or recovered from items related to incidents that are further analysed to present in legal settings. 

Adhering to quality documents, procedures and the technical standards of the National DNA Database is also key to my role, as well as updating the profile database, maintaining records performing searches using bespoke software and reporting cases. I also perform DNA analysis, including extraction and quantification in an accredited laboratory and report on intelligence cases, identifying DNA matches in line with best practice.

From the skills gained during your time at Manchester Met, which have you used most in your career so far?

My course included modules relating to DNA analysis and it has taught me many skills that I use within the Forensic Sciences sector. I spent substantial time in laboratories getting hands-on experience with a range of analytic instrumentation and having the opportunity to work independently was exceptional. 

The access given to the various types of molecular biology instruments at Manchester Met provided me with a high level of confidence and has thoroughly helped me in my career. 

What are your greatest achievements so far?  

My greatest achievement is being able to contribute to capturing dangerous criminals, providing justice for victims and their families, as well as increasing safety for the public. Forensic Science techniques and technology have advanced rapidly. There are individuals wrongly convicted of crimes they did not commit. The use of Forensic Science, specifically DNA testing has helped earn many of these individual’s freedom. These are a few things that bring me great satisfaction. 

What advice would you give to students who aspire to a career in Natural Sciences?   

The opportunities available out there are endless and you can adapt your level of specialisation as your career plans develop. There are plenty of resources and help available at University, ensure you are taking full advantage of it!. 

What are your plans for the future?  

My ultimate goal is to join the Detective career pathway and provide expert witness statements and deal with serious and complex investigations. 

Prepare for your future.