FBI Laboratory Scientist

Science and Technology

Whether it’s examining DNA or fingerprints left at a crime scene or linking exploded bomb fragments to terrorists, the FBI Laboratory’s world-class scientists use scientific rigor to solve cases and prevent crime and terrorism.

Law enforcement agencies can learn about FBI Laboratory services on the FBI’s law enforcement site.

Forensics 

The FBI has elite teams who collect evidence under the guidance of subject matter experts who provide training, resources, and support to these teams. 

If a crime scene is complex or dangerous, technical hazards response experts ensure the FBI can safely access and collect evidence that involves:

  • underwater operations
  • confined spaces
  • remote locations
  • or hazardous chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) materials

Other forensic response experts and FBI photographers can provide detailed crime scene surveys, documentation, various types of photography, 2D and 3D models, and more to support FBI or law enforcement partner agency investigations and to aid in prosecution.

Evidence Response Team Training

Evidence teams close the gap between a crime scene and the FBI Laboratory. Get an inside look as team members learn to process a scene with precision and care.

Scientific Analysis 

Nearly anything connected to a crime scene can provide clues for the FBI’s scientists—like a tire tread, a piece of hair, or a code scribbled on paper.

Forensic scientists and staff at the FBI's Laboratory Division use many scientific analysis techniques—such as cryptanalysis, document analysis, trace evidence, latent prints, and chemistry—to help crack the case.

DNA Analysis  

The DNA testing results obtained from evidence samples are compared to DNA from reference samples collected from known people. This testing helps associate victims and suspects with each other, with evidence items, or with a crime scene.

Law enforcement partners can learn about the FBI Laboratory's offerings on our law enforcement site.

Criminal Records and Information 

The FBI uses collections of criminal records and other law enforcement information—like fingerprints, palm prints, and iris scans in our investigations. Law enforcement partners also use these tools.

Technical Hazards Response   

The FBI’s technical hazards team makes sure the FBI can access complex, dangerous crime scenes. These professionals ensure the health and safety of these scenes and make sure responders can gather evidence safely. They help the FBI work treacherous or difficult-to-access crime scenes like those in rocky terrain or even under water.

Operational Technology  

The FBI’s operational technology experts have technical capabilities that help the FBI and other law enforcement agencies investigate crime and terrorism. These experts exploit digital and multimedia evidence and support investigations involving digital evidence. The FBI’s Regional Computer Forensic Laboratories are full service forensic laboratories and training centers, devoted to examining digital evidence.

Work in Science and Tech for the FBI 

Bring your science skills to the FBI.