You have seen them on your favorite CSI or NCIS TV shows. They are the criminalists known as the forensic pathologists. They are the Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallards (a character on NCIS) of the pathology labs. They are the individuals who cut up dead bodies for pathological analysis. Have you ever wondered what a forensic pathologist does? What are the educational requirements to become successful in this career?
In this article, I will explain what the job description of a forensic pathologist entails and the education needed to become one.
The forensic pathologist is at the pinnacle of the forensic system of investigation. They are at the top of the mountain, if you will. The job duties of this profession are not intended for those lacking intestinal fortitude. This profession can be fulfilling and rewarding yet dirty, stinky, and gruesome.
As a forensic pathologist, you have the ability to serve as a medical examiner or coroner, study human bodies to determine the cause and manner of death, perform autopsies, supervise a pathology laboratory and maybe the entire crime lab, study crime scenes, testify in court, and represent the medical examiner’s office in varying public and legal aspects. To become a successful forensic pathologist, you must possess a medical license and working knowledge of anatomy, anthropology, microscopy, dentistry, pathology, radiology and laboratory testing, as well as local, state, and federal laws.
Studying for this profession is long and arduous. At the least, you must undergo undergraduate school, four years of medical school, one year of internship, and fours years of pathology residency. Then, a one- or two-year stint in a forensic pathology fellowship can be of benefit to you. Most leadership positions require that you are board certified in anatomic or forensic pathology. The American Board of Pathology currently certifies all candidates seeking board certification in forensic pathology.
The efforts of a forensic pathologist can help criminal investigators come one step closer to solving a crime such as murder, bring an offender to justice, and provide closure to the families of the victims.
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