Posting Details
The New Mexico Department of Public Safety Forensic Laboratory is an accredited forensic laboratory that provides forensic analysis to 300 law enforcement agencies and judicial partners. Scientists provide expert witness testimony throughout New Mexico in the disciplines of DNA/Biology, Firearms/Tool Marks, Latent Prints and Controlled Substance Analysis. The Forensic Laboratory Bureau encompasses three forensic laboratories: Santa Fe, Las Cruces and Hobbs. The mission is to provide unbiased scientific results to client agencies, including federal, state, local and tribal agencies on criminal cases submitted for forensic analysis.
Why does the job exist?
Forensic scientists are a critical element of the criminal justice system. Forensic scientists examine and analyze evidence from crime scenes and elsewhere to develop objective findings that can absolve an innocent person from suspicion or assist in the investigation and prosecution of perpetrators of crime.
Forensic DNA / Biology scientists examine evidence for the presence of body fluids and conduct DNA analysis on such evidence containing these body fluids and process samples for DNA. DNA profiles generated from evidence can then be compared to DNA samples from victims and other subjects involved in a case. Forensic biology analyzes evidence from a wide range of cases, including property crimes as well violent crimes such as sexual assaults, homicides, and robberies.
How does it get done?
1. Perform forensic Biology/DNA analysis on body fluids, weapons, clothing, and other evidence collected from crime scenes to identify DNA sources.
2. Utilize forensic laboratory procedures, serology, DNA techniques, and associated instrumentation related to forensic DNA analysis.
3. Prepare written reports of analytical findings and testify in courts of law as an expert witness.
4. Perform independent Biology/DNA casework for law enforcement agencies statewide, including complex and expedited cases.
5. Conduct peer reviews of Biology/DNA casework to ensure accuracy, quality, and compliance with laboratory standards.
6. Follow requirements for designing and performing internal validation studies and internal audits.
7. May perform additional laboratory functions and responsibilities, including serving as unit safety officer, CODIS administrator, DNA Technical Leader, and/or conducting internal validations of new techniques and internal audits.
Who are the customers?
Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Agencies in New Mexico.
Ideal Candidate
Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Agencies in New Mexico.
Minimum Qualification
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in a related field. Any combination of education from an accredited college or university in a related field and/or direct experience in this occupation totaling four (4) years may substitute for the required education.
Employment Requirements
Required: valid NM Driver's license; obtain a Defensive Driving Certificate from the State of New Mexico; travel; national fingerprint-based record checks prior to employment; remaining felony-free per FBI CJIS Security Policy. This safety sensitive position is subject to pre-employment drug testing and random drug testing. DNA applicants must meet FBI QAS audit standards, including one year of lab experience and coursework in molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, and statistics. Transcripts and supporting documents may be required.
Working Conditions
Work is performed in a forensic laboratory setting; exposure to chemicals and biological fluids; statewide travel in car and/or small aircraft will be required when needed. Work under stressful situations with strict deadlines. Ability to lift and carry up to 30 lbs.; frequent walking, standing, sitting and bending; and exposure to noise from equipment and instruments utilized in the laboratory is required.
Supplemental Information
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Agency Contact Information: Dr. William J. Watson (505) 470-1276 Email
For information on Statutory Requirements for this position, click the Classification Description link on the job advertisement.
Bargaining Unit Position
This position is not covered by a collective bargaining agreement.
