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Forensic Pathologist job description

A Forensic Pathologist is a medical professional who performs autopsies, examines specimens, and investigates sudden or unnatural deaths in collaboration with law enforcement. They determine the cause of death and provide expert testimony.

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Refreshed on

July 4, 2024

Reviewed by

Eftychia Karavelaki

Senior Recruitment Manager

Use this Forensic Pathologist job description to advertise your vacancies and find qualified candidates. Feel free to modify responsibilities and requirements based on your needs.

What is a Forensic Pathologist?

A Forensic Pathologist is a medical professional specializing in conducting autopsies and examining biological samples to determine the cause of death and investigate suspicious or unnatural deaths. They work closely with law enforcement agencies and provide expert analysis and testimony in legal proceedings.

What does a Forensic Pathologist do?

A Forensic Pathologist performs autopsies, examines tissues and bodily fluids, and investigates the circumstances surrounding a person’s death. They use their expertise to determine the cause, manner, and mechanisms of death, and provide crucial information to law enforcement agencies and medical professionals. Additionally, they may be involved in collecting evidence, preparing reports, and giving expert testimony in legal proceedings.

Forensic Pathologist responsibilities include:

  • Performing autopsies to determine cause of death
  • Undertaking examinations of specimens, tissues, organs, fluids, and blood to determine abnormalities
  • Investigating sudden and/or unnatural deaths, in conjunction with law enforcement when needed

Job brief

We are seeking a skilled Forensic Pathologist to join our team and undertake postmortem medical examinations to ascertain the cause of death and gather information about the surrounding circumstances. As a Forensic Pathologist, you will be responsible for performing autopsies, ensuring the proper chain of custody for evidence, and offering expert testimony as required.

Working collaboratively with a team of Pathologists, your primary objective will be to assist law enforcement agencies and medical institutions in comprehending the various factors associated with a death. By meticulously analyzing forensic evidence and conducting thorough examinations, you will contribute to the accurate determination of causes of death and help bring closure to families and justice to the community.

Join us in this important role, where you will utilize your expertise and forensic knowledge to provide critical insights into complex cases and support the pursuit of truth and justice.

Responsibilities

  • Conduct on-site investigations to obtain data and information pertaining to a case
  • Prepare reports of findings to be given to law enforcement to aid any ongoing investigations
  • Provide expert testimony in court regarding autopsies and the findings thereof
  • Remain informed of developments in forensic pathology and attend seminars and courses in forensic medicine for continuing education

Requirements and skills

  • Proven work experience as a Forensic Pathologist or similar role
  • Experience using lab testing equipment
  • Working knowledge of applicable laws and statutes governing forensic services
  • Exceptional analytical and research skills
  • Relevant training and/or certifications as a Forensic Pathologist

Frequently asked questions

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