What Are the Responsibilities of a DNA Analyst?

DNA analysts are well-educated scientists who work to obtain biological information to identify individuals. According to the writers for CrimeSceneInvestigatorEDU.org, these professionals most often work in forensics, helping identify perpetrators and victims of crimes. They can also work at biotechnology companies and universities. If you are interested in a forensics career, a DNA analyst position could provide you with an interesting, rewarding career.

DNA Analyst Job Description

DNA analysts spend their days compiling tissue and organic samples, such as skin cells, hair follicles and body fluids. They work to isolate DNA strands in the samples and compare those with known samples to search for matches. They also review the findings of their peers, rechecking and retesting results.

Besides that, DNA analyst responsibilities include attending lectures, seminars and functions for professional development. Some are required to gather evidence at crime scenes, and many testify about their findings in court proceedings.

Most of the time, DNA analyst jobs involve working in labs, examining the samples they are sent, and writing up detailed reports about their findings. They accomplish the majority of their work using sensitive lab equipment and computers. Another one of the responsibilities of this job might be testing the equipment and ensuring it is functioning correctly.

DNA Analyst Education

According to the team at the College Educated website, prospective DNA analysts need a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as forensic studies, biology or criminalistics. Those who want to work in federal crime labs typically need a bachelor’s in forensic science, molecular biology or genetics. Areas of specialization and specific majors include serology and molecular genetics.

A DNA analyst education revolves around challenging courses in immunology, infectious diseases, microbiology, biochemistry and gene development. Supervised internships and lab hours are included in these programs. For the most part, DNA analysts also complete on-the-job training before they can work independently, but the time requirements are not typically substantial. Some job applicants must pass proficiency tests before they can be hired.

Many students go on to pursue advanced degrees. Some schools offer master's degrees in forensic science, forensic and conservation genetics, molecular biology, and analytical and forensic science, among others. These take a few more years, but they can translate to better positions and higher-paying salaries, so the added work may be worth the investment.

DNA Analyst Jobs

DNA analysts fall under the forensic science technicians umbrella, which includes other specialties. A sample forensic careers list includes fingerprint technicians, evidence technicians, and pathologist assistants.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics posts that there were 17,200 forensic science jobs in the country in 2020, and it predicts a 16 percent job growth in this field for 2020 through 2030. That percentage is much faster than average when compared with other fields. Besides the available opportunities, another perk for DNA analysts is that they usually work during regular business hours unless they are investigating a crime scene.

The 2020 median pay for forensic careers was $60,590 a year. Salary.com shows that a DNA analyst's salary ranges from $43,558 to $69,003, with a median of $55,912. As with other salaries, the amount earned depends on the employer, the location, and the experience and expertise of the analyst.