Forensic Laboratory Careers
Forensic laboratory careers cover a wide range of specialisms, from biology, DNA and trace evidence to toxicology, drugs analysis and fingerprint enhancement.
Working in a forensic laboratory is about much more than carrying out tests. Forensic practitioners must examine evidence methodically, select appropriate analytical approaches, interpret results and maintain accurate records throughout the process. The findings you produce may contribute directly to a criminal investigation and, ultimately, be scrutinised in court.
Successful forensic practitioners are analytical, meticulous and naturally curious. You'll need excellent attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills and the ability to follow rigorous procedures while remaining objective in your interpretation of the evidence.
Starting Your Forensic Laboratory Career
There are opportunities at different levels within forensic laboratories, and you don't necessarily need to start as a Forensic Scientist.
Entry-level positions may be advertised under titles such as Laboratory Assistant, Forensic Examiner, Forensic Technician or DNA Analyst, while more specialist scientific roles may require a relevant degree and, in some cases, postgraduate study or particular laboratory experience.
For graduates, one of the biggest challenges can be knowing which roles provide that crucial first step into the profession. Don't overlook examiner, technician and laboratory support positions simply because the job title isn't “Forensic Scientist” – they can provide valuable practical experience and a route into a longer-term forensic career.
Be more than your degree.
Current Jobs
Forensic Anthropology Reporting Scientist
Forensic Anthropology Reporting Scientist
Forensic Anthropology Reporting Scientist
Matchtech
Closing Date: Live
Salary: £22.77 per hour
Contract: Temp until Sept 2027
Cellmark is recruiting a Forensic Anthropology Reporting Scientist in Chorley to undertake specialist forensic examinations, interpret findings and prepare expert reports for criminal investigations. Applicants should have relevant forensic anthropology expertise and reporting experience.
Forensic Laboratory Analyst
Forensic Anthropology Reporting Scientist
Forensic Anthropology Reporting Scientist
Matchtech
Closing Date: Live
Salary: £22.77 per hour
Contract: Temp until Sept 2027
An opportunity for a Forensic Laboratory Analyst to support anti-illicit trade investigations through the examination and analysis of suspected counterfeit tobacco products.
The role involves conducting forensic examinations, identifying product authenticity, documenting findings, preparing technical reports and maintaining accurate laboratory records.
Applicants should have a relevant scientific background, strong analytical skills and experience working within a laboratory environment.
Sales Manager - Tamworth
Forensic Anthropology Reporting Scientist
Laboratory Analyst (Toxicology Team)
Eurofins Forensic Services
Closing Date: Live
Salary: Competitive
Eurofins is recruiting a Sales Manager to lead its Workplace Drug Testing sales team in Tamworth. The role involves developing sales strategies, expanding the customer base and managing sales performance. Applicants should have extensive workplace drug testing knowledge, B2B sales experience and strong leadership skills. NPPV3 and SC clearance required, including five years’ continuous UK residency.
Laboratory Analyst (Toxicology Team)
Laboratory Analyst (Toxicology Team)
Laboratory Analyst (Toxicology Team)
AlphaBiolabs
Closing Date: Live
Salary: £25,000.00
A toxicology laboratory role undertaking drug and alcohol analysis using techniques including LC-MS/MS. Suited to candidates with relevant scientific training looking to develop practical analytical experience within a regulated laboratory environment.
Toxicology Reporting Scientist
Laboratory Analyst (Toxicology Team)
Toxicology Reporting Scientist
AlphaBiolabs
Closing Date: Live
Salary: Competitive
An experienced toxicology role interpreting analytical results and producing legally defensible reports across toxicology casework. Requires significant casework reporting experience, including peer review and presenting evidence in court.
Laboratory Scientist – DNA
Laboratory Analyst (Toxicology Team)
Toxicology Reporting Scientist
AlphaBiolabs
Closing Date: Live
Salary: £24,784
A laboratory-based DNA role supporting the preparation, testing and analysis of biological samples. A strong opportunity for graduates with a relevant scientific degree looking to develop practical DNA laboratory experience.
Current Jobs Continued
Lab Tech, Admin Support
Lab Tech, Admin Support
Lab Tech, Admin Support
Forensic Access
Closing Date: Live
Salary: £25,000
A hands-on laboratory support role with Forensic Access in Wantage, contributing to the day-to-day delivery of forensic casework. A particularly relevant opportunity for candidates looking to build practical experience in a forensic laboratory environment.
Bid Manager
Lab Tech, Admin Support
Lab Tech, Admin Support
Forensic Access
Closing Date: Live
Salary: £45,000
A commercial role within the forensic sector, supporting Forensic Access in Wantage, with the business activity that underpins forensic service delivery. Particularly relevant to candidates combining commercial experience with an understanding of scientific or regulated environments.
Laboratory Analyst
Development Scientist (Temp role)
Development Scientist (Temp role)
Forensic Testing Service
Closing Date: Live
Salary: £25,845
A laboratory-based analytical role with Forensic Testing Service in Mirfield, West Yorkshire, supporting forensic testing and casework within a regulated environment. Suited to candidates with relevant scientific training who want to develop or apply practical forensic laboratory skills.
Development Scientist (Temp role)
Development Scientist (Temp role)
Development Scientist (Temp role)
Forensic Testing Service
Closing Date: Live
Salary: £35,000
A scientific development role with Forensic Testing Service in Mirfield, West Yorkshire, helping to improve and validate methods used within forensic testing. A good fit for a scientist interested in method development, quality and applied forensic science.