DNA Analyst Career Description

DNA Analyst Job Profile And Description

A DNA analyst, as the name suggests, is someone who is an expert in the study of the DNA and his primary responsibility is to analyse DNA samples for various purposes. They work for labs and are play a very crucial role in in forensic science because they can help identify a murderer or rapist just by studying and matching his DNA. Every human being has a unique DNA code and hence it is a very important identification factor. A DNA analyst also helps to determine who is the father or mother of a child and can also study the various genetic conditions in a person which can solve illnesses. He takes the DNA sample which can be from any part of the person’s body like hair, tissue or bodily fluids and tests it. The results of the tests can be used for research or criminology purposes or for finding solutions for genetic diseases.

DNA Analyst Duties And Responsibilities

The duties and responsibilities of a DNA analyst will involve:

• Collecting the DNA sample and isolating the DNA in it and analysing it for a particular purpose
• Comparing the DNA strand with known samples to identify a person which can be used to find a criminal or for paternity tests
• Testify in court and also store samples properly for future tests

DNA Analyst Skills And Specifications

The skills and specifications that are required of a DNA analyst include:

• Must be detail-oriented and systematic
• Good research and analytical skills

DNA Analyst Education And Qualification

The education and qualification requirements for a DNA analyst are as follows:

• A bachelor’s and preferably a master’s degree in subjects like genetics, microbiology, molecular biology, chemistry etc
• Study subjects like forensic biology, analytical chemistry and toxicology

DNA Analyst Salary

The average salary of a DNA analyst is $46,000-$75,000 a year.

Alternative Description

DNA analyst job description and profile

The job of a DNA analyst consists of examining and analyzing the DNA of a person in order to derive several characteristics about him. DNA gives information about heredity and parentage. It is also helpful is identifying dead bodies. A DNA analyst can also help genetic research.

DNA analyst job duties and responsibilities

The duties and responsibilities of a DNA analyst are:

• Testing the DNA sample and drawing conclusions from the results
• In cases of DNA analysis of dead bodies, the analyst may have to testify in the court of law
• Collecting DNA samples from the scene of crime in criminal cases
• Conducting research about the DNA
• Finding answers to the correct parentage
• Find organs suitable for donation by matching the DNA samples from the donor and the recipient
• Understanding the concepts of biochemistry, genetics, biology, human anatomy and molecular biology to draw conclusions

DNA analyst skills and specifications

The skills and specifications required for the job of a DNA analyst are:

• A thorough knowledge about genetics, molecular biology and biochemistry and strong application ability
• A thorough knowledge about different means of DNA testing
• Ability to work for long hours independently in labs
• Ability to work under high pressure condition
• Excellent management and communication skills
• Strong analytical thinking
• Strong ability to examine the work critically and bring out loose threads until all questions are solved
• Ability to regularly update skills to incorporate the latest technological developments in their work

DNA analyst education and qualifications

The education and qualifications of a DNA analyst are:

• A bachelor’s degree in genetics, biology, biochemistry, molecular biology and other related fields
• A bachelor’s degree in forensic science

Six months to one year training in DNA analysis so essential.

DNA analyst salary

The salary of a DNA analyst depends upon his experience and his place of work. His salary may range between $27,500 to $73,000 per year.