What does a Forensic Pathologist do?

A Forensic Pathologist is tasked with the examination of deceased persons who have died suddenly or unexpectedly. Through their analysis, they are responsible for determining the time and manner of the death. Forensic Pathologists are trained to recognize the signs of unnatural deaths and often collaborate with law enforcement to access evidence that may aid in their work.

A Forensic Pathologist may be called upon to gather evidence themselves, making them key figures in many criminal investigations. In some cases, they may even be asked to give expert testimonies in legal proceedings. Following examination, they must prepare detailed reports containing their reconstruction of the cause of death. They may then communicate with associates or the client’s family members to articulate their findings.

Forensic Pathologist skills and qualifications

A Forensic Pathologist’s role is highly technical and meticulous. When searching for candidates, here are some essential skills to look out for:

• High level of knowledge in human anatomy and physiology
• Expertise in general forensic pathology practices, including post-mortem examinations
• Proficiency with laboratory equipment and technology in the context of forensic analysis
• Strong analytical skills to interpret findings
• Detail-oriented and proficient in documenting findings and procedures
• Ability to work collaboratively with other forensic professionals, as well as law enforcement and legal teams

Forensic Pathologist experience requirements

Success in this role requires a candidate to have a high level of experience. As discussed below, a Forensic Pathologist undergoes an extensive training process. For this reason, when crafting a Forensic Pathology job description, employers typically don’t specify a minimum number of years in the field.

With that said, the more time a candidate has spent as a Forensic Pathologist, the more expertise they’ve had a chance to gain. Prior experience in the role may indicate an ability to withstand the mental strain that can come with the work.

Forensic Pathologist education and training requirements

A Forensic Pathologist must complete a comprehensive training process. To ensure they are qualified to take on the role, they’ll typically spend a minimum of 13 years learning and practicing before certification.

A prospective Forensic Pathologist must first earn a bachelor’s degree, preferably in a field related to biology or chemistry. This builds the foundation of their knowledge of anatomy and other subjects needed to secure a place in medical school.

Both allopathic and osteopathic medical school programs will offer the necessary training for a Forensic Pathologist. Upon graduating and completing the United States Medical Licensing Examination, they will typically be eligible for a state medical license and can move on to the next step of their training.

Once licensed, the prospective Forensic Pathologist may begin a four-year pathology residency. This step provides hands-on training overseen by a practicing member of the field. It’s followed by a one-year fellowship that offers further instruction on relevant topics, such as crime scene investigation and toxicology. At the fellowship’s end, most Forensic Pathologists sit for exams provided by the American Board of Pathology to demonstrate their proficiency in the role.

Job description samples for similar positions

If this Forensic Pathologist job description doesn’t have quite what you’re looking for, here are some similar samples to try instead:

• Medical Examiner
• Forensic Psychologist
• Medical Technologist
• Forensic Scientist

Forensic Pathologist job description FAQs

What is the difference between a Forensic Pathologist and a Medical Examiner?

A Medical Examiner is also a Physician specializing in pathology, but their work is more closely tied to law enforcement. They spend much of their time at crime scenes, collecting evidence and determining whether samples should be analyzed at the lab.

A Forensic Pathologist is specifically tasked with uncovering the cause and manner of death. Technically, a Forensic Pathologist may double as a Medical Examiner, as many states require the latter to be licensed in forensic pathology.

What setting does a Forensic Pathologist work in?

Whether they’re employed by a hospital, law enforcement office or the federal government, Forensic Pathologists spend much of their time working in a lab. However, when writing a job description, it may be useful to state that some travel is necessary. It’s common for Forensic Pathologists to be called to a crime scene to gather data or to testify in court.

What should you look for in a Forensic Pathologist resume?

An investigative nature and a penchant for problem-solving are qualities that are useful in any Forensic Pathologist. Because they will be tasked with reconstructing a cause of death, being able to focus on a question until it is solved can be valuable.

Compassion is another key factor to look for. Often, a Forensic Pathologist will be asked to communicate with the family of a deceased person, and a strong sense of compassion can make these moments less strenuous on both sides.