Skills you’ll develop
While studying Forensic Science, you’re learning to apply the techniques of biochemistry to both ethical and legal matters. You’ll develop important skills and master scientific reasoning to help make a difference in the community through the application of science in criminal investigations.
These skills may include:
- Comparison, interpretation, and evaluation of evidence using laboratory techniques and instruments
- Report and expert testimony writing for evidentiary findings
- Advanced quantitative and qualitative analysis
- Application of logical/systematic thinking
- Collaboration with laboratory teams across disciplines
- Technical skills in ELISA, PCR, cloning, gel electrophoresis, western blots, southern transfers, DNA hybridization, protein assays, and enzyme digests
- Usage of specialized instruments like pH meter, IR, and UV/VIS spectrophotometers
Career possibilities
Career opportunities vary widely across a range of fields relevant to forensic sciences and biochemistry in government, education and business.
There are many career paths that can combine your academics, skills, and experience with your different interests. Read through the job titles below for ideas. Some career options may require further education or training.
Visit the National Occupational Classification website to research basic requirements and responsibilities of jobs in your field.
- Bio-animator and filmmaker
- Bioinformatician
- Biological and medical illustrator
- Biology analyst
- Biostatistician
- Coroner
- Crime scene investigator
- Environmental attorney
- Environmental scientist
- Epidemiologist
- Food and drug inspector
- Food safety expert
- Forensic biologist
- Forensic odontologist
- Forensic pathologist
- Forensic scientist
- Forensic toxicologist
- General duty technologist
- Genetic counselor
- Laboratory technician
- Medical examiner
- Occupational therapist
- Patent agent
- Patent attorney
- Physical therapist
- Program manager
- Public health inspector
- Quality control technician
- Regulatory affairs expert
- Search technologist
- Technical writer
- Technical sales representative
- Teacher/Professor
- Toxicologist
- Veterinarian
Make the most of your specialization
Your experiences will open doors to new opportunities and help clarify your values and interests.
- Forensic Science Student Association
Meet other Forensic Science students through events and programs. - Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Physiology Club
Check out events related to biochemistry. - UBC Innocence Project
Learn about post-conviction reviews and the legal dimensions of forensic science work. - Departmental research opportunities
Reach out directly to faculty members to ask about potential research positions. - Industry career guide
Learn about forensic science and read insights from industry experts. - BCIT Forensics Blog
Stay updated with news, events, and other information in the field of forensics.
Build your network
Employers often hire people they know, so help them get to know you. You can build your network through clubs, classes, informational interviews, and more. There are so many ways to make connections and find mentors.
The professional associations below are also great resources for meeting people, learning about specific industries, and finding job and volunteer opportunities. Most have reduced membership rates for students and new grads.
- Advanced Biofuels Canada
- Association of Medical Illustrators
- BC Coroners Service
- BC Environmental Industry Association
- BIOTECanada
- Canadian Association of Pathologists
- Canadian Association for Poison Centres and Clinical Toxicology
- Canadian Federation of Agriculture
- Canadian Fuels Association
- Canadian Generic Pharmaceutical Association
- Canadian Institute of Food Science and Technology
- Canadian Plastics Industry Association
- Canadian Society for Forensic Science
- Canadian Society for Unconventional Resources
- Centre of Forensic Sciences
- Clean Energy BC
- Consumer Health Products Canada
- Cosmetics Alliance Canada
- ECO Canada
- Energy Council of Canada
- Forensic Science Portal
- Innovative Medicines Canada
- Laboratoire de sciences judiciaires et de médecine légale du Québec
- Life Sciences BC
- Medtech Canada
- National DNA Bank
- Personal Care Products Council
- Royal Canadian Mounted Police National Forensic Laboratory Service
- Science Writers and Communicators of Canada
- Student Biotechnology Network
Connect with alumni on LinkedIn
Find UBC Forensic Science graduates on LinkedIn to learn about where they’re working, and their career and academic paths.
More information
From your Science degree, you’ll develop skills and experiences that can translate into many career paths. Check out other things you can do with your Science degree.